Find out how the next version of Batman in the DCU wants to separate himself from the dark world of Matt Reeves
In a cinematic universe that explores the rise and fall of Batman, the DCU is gearing up to present the Dark Knight at the start of his career. Unlike the younger or older versions seen in films like Batman Begins or Batman v Superman, James Gunn’s new universe promises a fully established Batman. Imagine a seasoned hero who merges into a world where crime and villains are the bread and butter of Gotham. This approach not only revitalizes the character, but also fits him into a universe with other active heroes.
Introduce the Bat-Family properly
The Bat-Family has long been absent from the big screen, with Christopher Nolan, Zack Snyder and Matt Reeves opting to pursue the superhero solo. The Brave and the Bold premise promises that this will change with the inclusion of Damian Wayne. Since most Dark Knight movies have featured the hero on solo missions, a DCU superhero story should be a team effort, exploiting several family-rich characters.
A conflict involving Barbara Gordon and Dick Grayson quickly separated itself from the Matt Reeves films and allowed DC Studios to build a Batman universe within the DC universe. It’s unclear if Reeves will go the Bat-Family route or if that’s just the DCU. While Reeves may be telling another solo Batman story, this gives Gunn the perfect opportunity to do something different as Batman and introduce fan favorites and long-time outcasts like Robin.
Returning to the roots of comedy
While Matt Reeves followed a more authentic line in Nolan’s trilogy, in his new version he leans towards a more faithful approach to the comics. This means exploring iconic villains like Mr. Freeze or Poison Ivy and adopting a dark yet dark tone that allows for certain creative licenses that only the comic book can offer. This Batman will not be limited by reality, it will open up different options for his development on the screen.
With a glut of Dark Knight movies, DC Studios can get creative by introducing the character in other formats before his big movie debut. Could we see a game based on Series Max or a new version of this? Such diversity not only sets the scene for the production film, but also avoids direct and repeated competition with other interpretations of the character.
It can be fascinating to imagine who will take up the mantle of the Dark Knight in the DCU. With a change in tone and direction, DC Studios can choose an actor who brings charisma and emotional depth, able to handle intense drama and the more dramatic elements of the character. Names like John David Washington and Daniel Kaluuya have been circulated among fans, each bringing a unique style that could define the new era Gotham Defender.
A new and important perspective
Crucially, it offers something bold and innovative. Known for reviving lesser-known characters, Gunn is now tasked with breathing new life into the fan favorite. Drawing on less-explored areas of the Dark Knight’s mythology can lead to a revitalized and deeply engaging narrative for fans and new viewers alike. With a new vision, Gunn can even incorporate modern elements and new plots that make the superhero more relevant and interesting in the modern era.