James Gunn recently updated reporters on the DC Universe's status at a DC Studios presentation. Among other announcements, Gunn revealed he's already scripting his next DCU film after Superman. He's certainly busy!

While Gunn remained tight-lipped about his next project—likely saving the announcement for after Superman's July release—we've got some ideas for his next DCU endeavor. Which franchises and characters best suit his unique style? Which films should be prioritized as Gunn and Peter Safran build this new shared universe? Here are our top picks:

DC Universe: Every Upcoming Movie and TV Show

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Batman: The Brave and the Bold

Despite Batman's frequent big-screen appearances, Batman: The Brave and the Bold generates considerable buzz. This film will reboot Batman, introducing the DCU's Caped Crusader. Unlike recent iterations, it will focus on the Bat-family, including Bruce Wayne's son, Damian.

While Batman is a Hollywood staple, The Brave and the Bold faces uncertainties. Development seems slow, and Andy Muschietti's directorial involvement remains questionable post-presentation. Introducing a second cinematic Batman alongside Robert Pattinson's presents a significant challenge.

The DCU needs a Batman. He's pivotal, and this needs to be done right. If Muschietti departs, Gunn stepping in to ensure a successful project (a possibility that seems to be emerging) would be beneficial. Gunn's Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy showcases his skill in crafting emotional father-son narratives—imagine his take on Bruce and Damian.

The Flash

The Flash is crucial to any DCU. A Justice League cornerstone, he's central to multiverse stories. However, his live-action history is rocky. The CW series exemplifies ensemble storytelling (despite its later decline), while Ezra Miller's DCEU Flash and the subsequent film underperformed.

The Flash is damaged goods. Yet, he's vital to the DCU, needing a fresh approach beyond tired tropes like Flashpoint. The film needs to focus on Barry Allen (and/or Wally West), preventing Batman from overshadowing him.

Gunn's Guardians films demonstrate his knack for dynamic action, perfect for a Flash movie. He excels at connecting audiences with the hero beneath the mask.

The Authority

Gunn frankly addressed The Authority's challenges, noting difficulty in finding an angle that avoids overlap with The Boys and similar projects.

"Honestly, Authority's been the hardest, due to the shifting story and finding the right approach in a world with The Boys and its influences," Gunn stated. "We also have characters we love, already filmed, whose stories we want to continue and see interact. So, it's currently on the back burner."

The Authority is key to the expanding DCU. It was among the initially announced projects, and María Gabriela de Faría's Engineer appears in Superman. The DCU will likely explore the clash between the optimism of heroes like Superman and The Authority's cynicism. This film's success is crucial.

Fortunately, The Authority fits Gunn's style. He excels with misfit heroes and engaging banter. It's challenging, but we trust Gunn.

Amanda Waller/ARGUS Movie

Gunn admitted the Waller series faced setbacks, understandable given his commitments to Superman, Peacemaker: Season 2, and Creature Commandos. As these commitments ease, prioritizing Waller, potentially as a film, makes sense.

Waller and ARGUS are the DCU's glue. This universe began with the Creature Commandos, led by Waller. ARGUS appears in Superman, and Frank Grillo's Rick Flag, Sr. appears in both Superman and Peacemaker: Season 2. Focusing on this corner of the DCU and its puppet master is logical. If the series isn't working, a film might be the solution.

Batman & Superman: World's Finest

Batman v Superman (2016), despite its box office success, fell short of expectations. The dark tone alienated some audiences.

Batman v Superman wasn't what fans wanted. Too much fighting, not enough heroism. A team-up film portraying them as allies combating large-scale threats would be ideal—a scenario Gunn could excel at.

Instead of focusing solely on The Brave and the Bold, Gunn could unite his Superman with The Brave and the Bold's Batman. The DCU needs surefire hits, and a Gunn-directed Batman/Superman film is a strong contender.

Titans

The Teen Titans franchise boasts a large fanbase. The comics, animated series, and Teen Titans Go! have all achieved success.

Introducing the Titans to the DCU is essential. A large fanbase exists, and rich source material is available. While Max's Titans series had flaws, it demonstrated their live-action potential.

A live-action Titans film is appealing. Their dysfunctional yet loving family dynamic differs from the Justice League. Given Gunn's success with the Guardians, his take on one of DC's greatest super-teams would be exciting.

Justice League Dark

The DCU's first phase, "Gods and Monsters," and the early focus on Swamp Thing and Creature Commandos indicate a supernatural emphasis. Establishing a supernatural counterpart to the Justice League makes sense.

Justice League Dark offers a platform for magical heroes like Zatanna, Etrigan, Deadman, Swamp Thing, and John Constantine to combat threats beyond the traditional Justice League's capabilities. The team's inherent dysfunction aligns perfectly with Gunn's storytelling. Including characters like Batman or Wonder Woman could attract casual audiences, offering a gateway to the DCU's weirder side.

Which DC film do you want Gunn to tackle next? Vote in our poll and comment below.

For more on the future of DC, see what to expect in 2025 and view every DC movie and series in development.