Has DC Studios already made to many mistakes before the REBOOTED universe has even begun?

The DC Extended Universe had its share of hits, but it’s likely to be remembered as a mixed bag, with more failures than successes. This was especially evident from the releases in 2023. Thus, the announcement of a DCU reboot by the newly formed DC Studios was welcomed with open arms by many fans.

There’s a lot to be excited about in the upcoming projects, particularly with a new Superman movie on the horizon. Unlike their predecessors, James Gunn and Peter Safran seem to have a clear plan, and they’ve already attracted some A-list talent to the revamped franchise.

However, that doesn’t mean they haven’t made a few mistakes already. Even Marvel Studios experienced growing pains, and before DC Studios has released a single movie or TV show, we have some concerns about their plans for these characters.

We hope to be proved wrong, but here are the biggest mistakes DC Studios has made so far.

Superman Reveal

We have no complaints about James Gunn directing the new Superman film. It’s clearly a passion project for the filmmaker, who is a genuine fan of the Man of Steel.

However, the first official image of David Corenswet in the iconic Superman suit has drawn mixed reactions, potentially highlighting DC Studios’ lack of experience as they strive to rival Marvel Studios.

The attempt to depict Superman as relatable—putting his boots on one at a time like the rest of us—was a nice idea in theory. Unfortunately, it fell flat. The costume appeared rumpled and ill-fitting, but even that was overshadowed by the problematic background.

In an effort to tease the movie’s mysterious villain (we’re hoping for more than just Lex Luthor and a supposed Superman clone), we were left with an unconvincing CGI figure. This immediately evokes memories of the DCEU’s notorious VFX issues. Perhaps the new DCU won’t differ in the ways that truly matter after all?

Andy Muschietti (Brave & The Bold)

Its rather puzzling why director Andy Muschietti has been given the responsibility of helming a movie as crucial as The Brave and the Bold.

Yes, the nostalgic scenes featuring Michael Keaton’s Dark Knight were the standout moments in The Flash, but are they enough to entrust him with one of the DCU’s most significant projects—introducing Batman, Robin, and the Bat-Family?

This decision by DC Studios is one of their most questionable yet. Muschietti’s track record is mixed: Mama was decent, IT was very good, but IT: Chapter Two was a hot mess. The Flash also received mixed reviews, and the scenes with Ben Affleck’s Batman demonstrated that, aside from leveraging nostalgia, Muschietti’s filmmaking style might not be the best fit for the Caped Crusader.

Those who loved The Flash might disagree, and that’s fine. However, it’s worth noting that at least Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow is in good hands with Craig Gillespie, known for his work on Cruella.

Family Involvement

Nepotism is a hot topic in Hollywood these days, and while some believe the issue is exaggerated, the DCU has found itself at the center of this controversy.

James Gunn’s wife, Jennifer Holland, is expected to reprise her role as Emilia Harcourt. Meanwhile, Gunn’s brother, Sean Gunn, will return as Weasel and take on the roles of both G.I. Robot and Maxwell Lord—a character likely to be a significant figure in the new DCU.

Additionally, Gunn’s friends, such as Nathan Fillion, have landed major roles in the DCU. This has sparked debate among fans, with some questioning whether these actors are the best fit for their roles.

Many would argue that casting friends and family is a natural choice, especially if they are talented and suitable for the roles—both Holland and Gunn have proven their skills. However, making these connections so apparent so early has given some unhappy fans, particularly those loyal to the SnyderVerse, the ammunition they were looking for to criticize the new direction.

Muddled, Confusing (HALF Reboot?)

If DC Studios planned to reboot the DCEU, then they…well, they should have fully rebooted it. While upcoming stories will unfold in a new reality, John Cena’s return as Christopher Smith for Peacemaker Season 2 suggests this is not a complete reboot.

Viola Davis will also continue her role as Amanda Waller, raising questions about the integrity of the reboot, especially considering their involvement in The Suicide Squad, directed by James Gunn.

If Gunn enjoyed working with them, that’s understandable. However, introducing new versions of major and minor characters while keeping Team Peacemaker in the DCU muddies the waters significantly.

Moving on from the DCEU doesn’t really work if remnants of the past remain. Does this mean Peacemaker Season 1 is still canon, but with certain DCEU elements removed?

This approach creates confusion and undermines the goal of a fresh start. A clear, consistent vision is essential for the new DCU to distinguish itself from its predecessor and avoid the pitfalls of the past.

Slate Announced Far To EARLY!!!

When revisiting the history of the DCEU, many will argue that Warner Bros.’ biggest mistake was making a premature slate announcement. They unveiled a slew of movie titles and release dates without securing filmmakers for most of them. While DC Studios hasn’t exactly repeated that mistake, the reveal of “Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters” still felt prematurely timed.

This early announcement likely contributed to the poor box office performance of 2023’s DCEU movies. It also seems the plan is already shifting. Teen Titans has been unofficially added to the lineup, Peacemaker Season 2 appears to have replaced Waller, and a previously standalone Arkham-set series—originally tied to The Batman—has been included.

DC Studios might have set fans up for disappointment (is Paradise Lost really happening?) and demonstrated that their initial slate isn’t set in stone. It would have been wiser to work behind the scenes until they had concrete plans, complete with filmmakers and release dates, for those movies and TV shows.

This hasty approach risks undermining fan confidence and could lead to further confusion and frustration. A more measured, deliberate rollout would better serve the new DCU’s goal of establishing a cohesive and compelling narrative universe.

Transparency (Keeping fans in the dark)

On one hand, James Gunn has made commendable efforts to keep fans updated on social media. He has shared DCU casting announcements and highlighted many of the comics that have inspired DC Studios’ storytelling approach.

Despite this, there’s been a frustrating lack of transparency. While avoiding direct answers is common in Hollywood—Kevin Feige is a prime example—Gunn’s approach has been inconsistent. He often finds time to debunk silly online rumors, but hasn’t addressed more pressing questions, like Gal Gadot’s status as Wonder Woman, despite months of conflicting reports.

Furthermore, the inconsistency in recasting roles adds to the confusion. Gunn praised The Flash as one of the greatest superhero movies ever made, yet Sasha Calle’s tenure as Supergirl has ended abruptly and without much acknowledgment.

This lack of clarity raises several questions:

Why are some roles being recast while others are not?
What criteria are being used to determine which actors stay and which leave?
How does this affect the overall narrative and continuity of the new DCU?

Gunn’s selective transparency and the inconsistent handling of the cast contribute to a sense of uncertainty among fans. Addressing these issues openly would go a long way in building trust and maintaining enthusiasm for the new direction of the DCU.

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