James Gunn apparently believes that Krypto the Superdog, John Stewart, and Peacemaker could eventually become just as valuable to DC Studios as Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman.
The DC Studios co-chairman made the eyebrow-raising comparison while once again defending his plans for the DC Universe, attempting to clarify the eight-to-ten-year roadmap he and Peter Safran originally pitched when they assumed control of the superhero franchise.
According to Variety, Gunn took to Threads to explain his approach to DC’s biggest characters and his ambitions for lesser-known properties.
But his explanation raises another question about the direction of the DCU: Why is Gunn talking about creating new franchise-defining characters when Batman and Wonder Woman still haven’t been properly established in his cinematic universe?
Gunn Wants to Turn Lesser-Known Characters Into ‘Diamonds’
Addressing criticism of his long-term strategy, Gunn explained that the original roadmap involved considerably more than interconnected storytelling.
“Some things get conflated here,” he said. The often cited ‘8 to 10 year roadmap’ originally pitched wasn’t only story points (although that was a part of it), but also the plan for DC as a whole, including focusing on diamond characters (Superman, Batman, WW) as well as smaller characters we could turn into diamonds (Krypto, John Stewart, Peacemaker), how we would foster filmmaker freedom & allow for multiple tones & ratings, the influences of Star Wars & George RR Martin, and so much more.
John Cena dancing in the opening to Peacemaker Season 2 – YouTube, DC
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There’s nothing inherently wrong with developing lesser-known characters. Gunn famously accomplished that with Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy.
However, suggesting that Superman’s dog and Peacemaker could become properties comparable to Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman seems extraordinarily ambitious.
John Stewart is arguably the most understandable inclusion, given his established popularity among longtime DC fans. Though the divisive reception to the HBO show Lanterns makes diamond status appear to be a lofty dream.
But Peacemaker? Krypto?
These characters certainly have their audiences, but elevating them to the cultural prominence of DC’s Trinity is an entirely different proposition.
Gunn Continues Defending His Confusing DCU Roadmap
Gunn also insisted that his approach hasn’t fundamentally changed since he first announced his plans in January 2023.
“You can look at my quotes from January ’23 when we started and I said we were going to do exactly what we’re doing,” he said, further explaining that standalone productions and interconnected narratives were always intended to coexist. “I said some stories would be standalone like the Guardians movies were (which is what Clayface is) and some stories would have part of a larger narrative structure, which is what the Superman Saga is. All that said, each piece of the larger story should work on its own with or without having to see everything else.”
James Gunn and John Cena introduce the Red Band Trailer for Peacemaker Season 2 – YouTube, DC
Superhero films shouldn’t require audiences to complete homework assignments before entering a theater, so he’s right on that point. However, Gunn’s repeated explanations suggest that his vision has not been communicated as clearly as he might believe.
The studio has already introduced Superman, but its new Batman and Wonder Woman remain conspicuously absent from the theatrical lineup.
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Meanwhile, Gunn continues promoting an expansive universe populated by supporting characters, obscure heroes, and projects with wildly different creative approaches.
DC’s Biggest Heroes Should Come First
Gunn ended his latest explanation by expressing enthusiasm for the future.
“It’s exciting seeing things START to come together and all that makes me even more excited for what we have in store for everyone in Man of Tomorrow,” he said.
That film is scheduled to arrive in theaters on July 9, 2027.
But the larger concern remains.
James Gunn and David Corenswet sit for an interview about Superman – YouTube, Fandango
DC doesn’t need to manufacture replacements for its most recognizable superheroes. It already possesses three of the most iconic characters in entertainment history.
There’s absolutely room for Krypto, John Stewart, and Peacemaker in a successful DC Universe. The question is whether audiences will embrace Gunn’s larger vision before its foundational heroes have even been assembled.
Perhaps establishing those diamonds should take precedence over trying to create new ones.
How do you feel about James Gunn and his approach to DC? Sound off and let us know!
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