James Gunn and director Matt Reeves are committed to keeping their Batman in a separate universe

What if Robert Pattinson was the definitive Batman of the DC Universe? This idea crossed the mind of James Gunn, co-CEO of DC Studios, who recently confessed that he had seriously considered the possibility. However, in a podcast interview Happy Sad Confused with Josh Horowitz, Gunn revealed why he decided against it, preserving Pattinson as the exclusive Dark Knight Batman’s epic crime saga.

The importance of stories in Elseworlds

The comment came while Gunn was promoting Commando of creaturesthe first official chapter of the new DC Universe, an animated series for adults that will be integrated into this shared universe. During the conversation, Horowitz asked if he had ever thought about incorporating Matt Reeves’ vision of Batman into the DCU. Gunn, smiling, replied: “I thought about it, yes. I contemplate everything. I talk about everything.”

While Gunn acknowledged that the idea was appealing, he explained that one of DC’s greatest strengths lies in its ability to present radically different versions of their most iconic heroes. “I am committed to telling stories in both the DCU and Elseworlds. “I want the freedom to explore independent stories,” he said.

This approach seeks to enable unique narratives such as Superman: Red Sonwhich explore alternative worlds and new settings for the characters. Gunn sees DC’s flexibility in developing these stories as what sets it apart from other superhero franchises.

The choice of Matt Reeves

The decision to keep The Batman outside the DCU it wasn’t just Gunn’s. In previous statements, the director had said that he respected Matt Reeves’ request to keep his Batman saga as an independent story. “It’s not a question of ‘allowing’ or not; It’s Matt’s choice and we respect it,” Gunn commented in December 2023.

Reeves, who opted for a more intimate vision focused on character development, made it clear that his Dark Knight doesn’t fit into a larger universe. This confirms that although Gunn contemplated the integration of Battinson In the DCU, Reeves’ decision was crucial in keeping both visions separate.

What will happen to both universes

In the meantime, Reeves’ saga will continue under seal Other worldsa trademark that DC uses for stories independent of the main canon. The next chapter of Batman’s epic crime saga will arrive in 2026, solidifying Robert Pattinson as this universe’s Batman.

In parallel, the DCU will introduce its own Dark Knight The brave and the bolddirected by Andy Muschietti (The Flash). This movie will be based on the story arc Batman and son by Grant Morrison, which explores Bruce Wayne’s relationship with Damian, his son with Talia al Ghul.

While Gunn isn’t yet satisfied with the current script, he says he won’t move forward with production until he’s completely convinced. “Until we have a script that I’m totally happy with, that movie won’t get made,” he said.

Two Batmans, one legacy

Having different versions of Batman coexist might seem like a risk, but both Gunn and Reeves are confident that fans will enjoy both interpretations. On the one hand, Reeves’ introspective and noir proposal; on the other, the broader and more familiar approach that will be developed in the DCU.

Who will be the public’s favorite Batman? This is a question that, for now, only time can answer. In the meantime, fans can get excited about the best of both worlds, enjoying unique and complementary stories that expand the Dark Knight’s legacy.