Superhero movies have become a cultural phenomenon, capturing the hearts and minds of millions around the world. With their thrilling narratives, jaw-dropping action sequences, and larger-than-life characters, these films have transcended traditional genres to become a mainstream obsession. Whether it's the inspiring heroics of Superman, the brooding darkness of Batman, or the witty banter of Spider-Man, there's a superhero for everyone. The success of these movies can be attributed to their ability to blend incredible special effects with compelling storytelling, creating a mesmerizing experience for audiences of all ages. From box office records to cosplay conventions, the popularity of superhero movies seemed, for a long time, to show no signs of fading, as fans eagerly anticipated each new installment, thirsting for more adventures from their beloved heroes.
With that said, it is disheartening to witness DC’s recent flops in the world of superhero movies, The Flash and Blue Beetle in particular. While massively anticipated by fans and backed by extensive marketing endeavors, these films failed to meet expectations both critically and commercially. If their respective box office flops were due to rushed storytelling or diluted characters, I’d be more apt to write them off as poorly made movies, but the issue seems to be bigger than that. Are superhero fans just done with legacy superhero stories altogether?
One side of the argument says James Gunn's visionary decision to reboot the DC Universe showcases a creative fearlessness and commitment to revitalizing iconic franchises. By breathing new life into beloved characters and storylines, Gunn has the opportunity to explore untapped narrative potential and bring a fresh and exciting perspective to the superhero genre, especially with his iconic success with The Guardians of the Galaxy Trilogy in the Marvel Universe. His evident willingness to take risks and push boundaries may be precisely what the DC Universe needs to reinvigorate itself and capture the attention of audiences worldwide.
However, James Gunn's unique background, primarily in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, may limit his ability to attract the audience he thinks can be swayed. While Gunn has proven his prowess in handling ensemble casts and blending humor in action, it remains to be seen if he can successfully navigate DC's darker and grittier territory. Gunn's approach of infusing humor into every character might clash with the established tonal approach DC films have taken in recent years. It seems Gunn's success in revitalizing the DC universe will depend on his ability to strike a delicate balance between capturing the essence of these iconic superheroes and delivering a fresh and distinctive cinematic experience.
If Gunn and DC wish to reclaim the glory of their cinematic successes of old, their movies must focus on a trio of fundamental aspects. Firstly, they must invest heavily in well-crafted storytelling that captivates both die-hard fans and casual viewers alike. A compelling narrative with strong character development not only lends authenticity to the superheroes, but also enables audiences to emotionally invest in their journeys. Secondly, DC movies must strive for a consistent universe that allows for cross-pollination of familiar characters and storylines. Establishing a solid foundation for interconnected narratives naturally stimulates interest and builds anticipation for future releases. Lastly, DC must prioritize directorial vision by empowering filmmakers to exercise creative freedom, while ensuring a cohesive vision for the entire franchise.
In a new age of superhero-literate audiences, Gunn is responsible for flexing the directorial muscles he was hired to show off. Whether they can succeed resides in the true battle for DC’s soul. Will the characters of Batman, Superman, et al be forever trapped in the hell of animated kids’ TV shows and Zack Snider’s unfinished Justice League saga? Or will Gunn and Safran transcend the current plateau of cinematic bleh and reignite the passion that superhero fanatics like myself have been aching for?
I guess we’ll find out when Superman: Legacy hits theaters in 2025. What do you think? Is the Age of Superheroes over or will James Gunn save the DC Universe from its current spiral? Comment below.
R.T. Donlon is the author of a collection of works, including The City of Shadow & Dust series, Walls: A Zombie Novel, and The Reaper Trials. His most recent on-going novel - The Dorian Collective - can be found on Substack.