James Gunn’s latest Superman movie is now showing in theaters. While the focus is on the Man of Steel, much attention has been given to another hero in the DC Universe in the lead-up to the blockbuster.
There has been a lot of talk about Bruce Wayne, also known as Batman, and how he will fit into this new era of the DCU, with several live-action projects centered around the Dark Knight in the works.
Having watched an early screening of Superman, I’ve picked up on some clues and combined them with key quotes to try and unravel the mystery surrounding Batman and the potential crossover with David Corenswet and Robert Pattinson’s versions of the character.
Warning: Spoilers ahead for Superman. Proceed at your own risk.
Superman has a small Batman Easter egg
While Batman does not make an appearance in James Gunn’s Superman movie, there is a subtle reference that hints at his existence.
During an evacuation scene in Metropolis, a road sign for Gotham City, Batman’s usual operating city, can be seen. This reference, while not crucial to the plot, teases what’s to come in this DC Universe reboot.
This reference isn’t surprising, as James Gunn and Peter Safran, co-CEOs of DC Studios, have plans for an original Bruce Wayne movie, which would likely introduce a new actor in the role.
However, the speculation now revolves around the possibility of an existing Batman version joining forces with David Corenswet. Specifically, Robert Pattinson’s portrayal of the character in Matt Reeves’s The Batman, set to return for a sequel in October 2027.
These rumors stem from an unexpected cameo in Superman, indicating that Gunn and Safran are not completely starting from scratch.
Superman cameo confirms one old DCEU character exists in this new world
In Superman, we see Clark Kent facing criticism from the press after Lex Luthor leaks a video revealing the true reason for his arrival on Earth. While flipping through TV channels, we catch a glimpse of Peacemaker, played by John Cena, being interviewed.
Peacemaker, known for his anti-hero persona, is seen badmouthing Clark Kent. The question arises: how did he end up here?
The most likely explanation is that this version of Peacemaker has been retroactively included in this universe. Gunn confirmed that almost all of the Peacemaker series is considered canon in this new DCU, except for a scene featuring a Justice League cameo.
Another theory is that this scenario involves multiverse elements, given Superman’s exploration of pocket universes. However, this approach may not align with DC’s current storytelling direction.
While the prospect of merging characters from different DC properties exists, Gunn’s focus seems to be on crafting a unique narrative within this universe.
James Gunn’s stance on Matt Reeves’s The Batman
Upon assuming co-leadership of DC Studios, Gunn expressed openness to having two live-action Bruce Wayne stories coexist. One within the DCU and the other under the DC Elseworlds banner.
Reeves’s take on Batman, with Robert Pattinson in the lead, falls under an alternate universe classification. Gunn’s plans for Batman in his DCU involve a unique approach that differs from both Reeves’s gritty version and campy interpretations.
While the possibility of Battinson crossing into the main DCU remains, Gunn deems it unlikely due to tonal differences between their respective projects.
A new Batman film is in development called The Brave and the Bold
Gunn has tasked a writer with developing The Brave and the Bold script, focusing on Bruce Wayne and his son Damian Wayne adopting the mantle of Robin.
While the release date for The Brave and the Bold is uncertain, it won’t likely premiere alongside other Batman projects slated for upcoming years. The film’s tone and narrative approach will distinguish it from existing and upcoming Batman adaptations.
James Gunn’s status on Batman in the DCU, in summary
The future of Batman in the DCU involves a reboot through The Brave and the Bold, while Matt Reeves’s Batman series exists in an alternate universe under DC Elseworlds.
While the possibility of a crossover between different Batman iterations exists, Gunn’s focus remains on establishing a distinct narrative within his DCU. The inclusion of characters like Peacemaker hints at a universe with room for reinterpretation and expansion.
Stay tuned for more updates on the evolving landscape of the DC Universe.
