The creative director of DC Studios, James Gunn, clarifies what is part of the new cinematic universe and what remains under the Elseworlds label

With the arrival of the second anniversary since then James Gunn and Peter Safran took over the reins of DC Studios, fans still have doubts about which projects are part of it new DCU and which ones are excluded. Although Gunn and Safran have reiterated the plan several times, it seems some still need a clearer explanation. Luckily, Gunn solved the problem with his trademark humor and simplicity, making it clear that everything that isn’t from the DCU it’s “Otherworlds”.

What exactly is Elseworlds?

Since Gunn and Safran presented their “Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters” plan, it has been established that the new DCU will officially begin with the animated series Commando of creatures (based on the comic by JM DeMatteis and Pat Broderick) and, subsequently, with the 2025 premiere of Superman: Legacy. However, this does not mean that DC Studios abandons other stories outside of this narrative line. “Elseworlds” is the term used to designate DC projects that are not tied to the new shared universe.

A perfect example is Matt Reeves’ criminal universe, known as Batman’s epic crime saga. This includes the starring film Robert Pattinson, The Batmanand the upcoming spin-off focused on The Penguinwith Colin Farrell. While these projects are not part of the DCU, they operate under the oversight of DC Studios.

In response to a question on Discussions if you like the series Teen Titans (2003) or Titans (2018) are considered “Elseworlds,” Gunn was blunt: “Everything that’s not DCU is Elseworlds (including you and me, I guess).”

The future of the DCU

This dual approach offers a clear advantage for fans: on the one hand, a cohesive universe with interconnected stories in the DCU; on the other, the possibility of enjoying independent projects that explore different corners of the vast world of DC comics. Gunn and Safran are not only working on the new DCU productions, but are also overseeing that projects under the “Elseworlds” label maintain their quality and uniqueness.

Furthermore The Batman Yes The Penguinit is likely that other iconic stories, such as the films of Joker directed by Todd Phillips, are also included under this banner. This approach reflects DC’s versatility, allowing for both serialized narratives and unique experiments in the superhero genre.

What makes Elseworlds so special?

What really enriches the idea of ​​“Elseworlds” is what it offers a creative alternative without limiting oneself to a specific continuity. While the DCU tries to build a coherent narrative, independent projects like The Batman They allow us to explore darker or more intimate aspects of iconic characters. Gunn has made it clear what his priority is give space to the most beautiful storiesboth within the DCU and outside of it.

This strategy, in addition to encouraging diversity of proposals, allows fans to connect with different versions of their favorite heroes. In a landscape saturated with connected franchises, the existence of these universes outside of the main one seems like a necessary respite. Whether you prefer epic stories or more introspective tales, DC Studios has something in store for you.

What does this mean for fans?

For dedicated followers, this separation helps avoid confusion. We now know that any project that isn’t explicitly linked to the stories of Commando of creatures or Inheritance will be labeled “Elseworlds”. This includes classic television series, previous films, and future independent projects.

So if you were wondering why you don’t have your Green Lantern Corps ring yet or whether your favorite hero’s movie will fit into the new narrative, you already have your answer: it’s probably “Elseworlds.”

Gunn not only directs the future of the DCU, but also makes sure fans know where each piece of the puzzle is. While we wait for the premiere of Inheritance and explore the exciting stories of the new DCU, there will always be room for projects outside of this mainline that will continue to delight us under the “Elseworlds” label.