James Gunn Delays DCU Batman: Script Still in the Works
James Gunn has revealed the DCU’s new Batman film is nowhere near ready, leaving fans waiting years for The Brave and the Bold. Find out what’s holding up the Caped Crusader’s next big screen outing.
Anyone hoping to catch the next Batman flick in the DCU will need to be patient, as James Gunn has confirmed the script is far from finished. The much-anticipated The Brave and the Bold won’t be hitting cinemas until at least 2028, with Gunn making it clear he’s not rushing the process just to meet a deadline.
When a fan asked on Threads about the film’s release, Gunn responded,
“I'm dependent on when there's an actionable script ready so there is no way of me guessing this. Also, frankly, we're well into Batman 2, and I wouldn't want to cloud the Batsphere until after that.”
He’s keen to avoid any overlap with Matt Reeves’ sequel, which is already deep in production.
One Batman at a Time
Some punters reckon Gunn is downplaying Bruce Wayne’s role in the DCU, but he was quick to set the record straight.
“I'm not at all. I think both Batman and WW are incredibly important. But I'm also not going to have two Batman movies come out in the same year.”
Gunn’s not interested in crowding the calendar with multiple versions of the Dark Knight, preferring to give each take its own space to shine.
Another fan chimed in, suggesting it’s a good thing Matt Reeves’ Batman sequel is coming in 2027, giving audiences their Bruce Wayne fix while the DCU takes its time. Gunn agreed, replying,
“Totally true.”
It seems the plan is to let Reeves’ vision play out before introducing a new Batman to the DCU.
What’s Next for the Caped Crusader?
With no chance of two Batmen sharing the spotlight in the same year, it’s clear Robert Pattinson’s version will return first. The Batman 2, directed by Matt Reeves, is set for release on 1 October 2027. Sebastian Stan has joined the cast as Harvey Dent, and Scarlett Johansson is on board in a mysterious role. Colin Farrell will be back as the Penguin, though only for a handful of scenes.
It’s worth noting this take on Gotham’s vigilante isn’t part of the new DCU’s main storyline. Instead, it sits in its own Elseworlds universe, much like the Joker films starring Joaquin Phoenix.
DCU’s Upcoming Slate
While Batman fans wait, the DCU is moving ahead with Supergirl, marking Milly Alcock’s first solo outing as Kara Zor-El after her brief appearance in Superman. There’s plenty more on the horizon, with a full slate of films and shows in the pipeline for the DCU’s next phase.