James Gunn Weighs In After Netflix Snaps Up Warner Bros
James Gunn and Peter Safran address the future of DC films and streaming after Netflix’s Warner Bros buyout, highlighting the value of cinemas and teasing what’s next for the DC universe.
Netflix’s latest move has sent shockwaves through the film industry, with its acquisition of Warner Bros sparking plenty of chatter among punters and insiders alike. The big question on everyone’s lips: what does this mean for the future of blockbuster releases from the studio now under Netflix’s wing? Ted Sarandos, the streaming giant’s head honcho, hasn’t exactly hidden his lack of enthusiasm for “long exclusive windows” in cinemas, which has only fuelled speculation. But James Gunn and Peter Safran, the duo steering the DC Studios ship, have stepped up to share their perspective on the shake-up.
Chatting with Bloomberg, Gunn made it clear that he’s not ready to give up on the big screen just yet.
“The communal, theatrical experience is something that is incredibly important and remarkably well suited to our big spectacle films.”
It’s a sentiment that will no doubt reassure fans who still love heading to the cinema for their superhero fix.
DC’s Next Steps: Big Screen and Streaming
The DC universe is still finding its feet, with only a handful of titles like Superman, Peacemaker, and Creature Commandos out in the wild so far. Looking ahead, 2026 is shaping up to be a busy year, with Supergirl set to hit cinemas and the Lanterns series lined up for HBO Max. David Zaslav, who’s been keeping a close eye on the franchise, reckons this mix of cinema and streaming is the way to go.
“The DC universe is big enough and strong enough that it should be available on all platforms,”
he said.
“There are some stories that are important to be told in theatres around the world, and some stories that are important to be told as series.”
Gunn and Safran seem pretty relaxed about the future, confident in the direction they’re taking. Safran was quick to point out what sets their approach apart:
“What makes us irreplaceable is truly the mind of James Gunn. He’s been the architect of this grand vision.”
Still, with Netflix now in the picture, there’s a sense that the DC universe could be heading for even bigger things.
Streaming’s Role in the DC Universe
On a recent investment call, Sarandos hinted that the new deal could open up fresh opportunities for DC’s stable of characters. He suggested that fans should expect more than just the usual tentpole blockbusters.
“You should think about ways that you can explore all these IP universes beyond that of just making tentpole movies. Examples would be some of the earlier moves from the DC universe, for things like Penguin has turned into great television.”
It’s a nod to the growing trend of expanding comic book worlds across both film and telly, giving fans more ways to dive in.
For now, it’s a waiting game to see how the dust settles. There’s hope among fans that the next wave of DC films will get their time to shine in cinemas before making the inevitable jump to streaming. Whether they stick around on the big screen for long or quickly land on Netflix, the future of the DC universe is set to be anything but dull.
What’s Next for DC Fans?
With so much up in the air, fans are keeping a close eye on every announcement. The list of upcoming films and series is growing, and there’s plenty of speculation about which ones might end up with that unmistakable red N. For now, all eyes are on Gunn, Safran, and the rest of the team as they chart a course through this new era of superhero storytelling.