Gunn: Batman Should Stay Serious, My Major DC Concern

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The Complex Future of Batman Films

The landscape for live-action Batman films appears to be progressing slowly, with DC Universe co-chief James Gunn acknowledging: "Batman's my biggest challenge across all DC properties right now."

Earlier this year, Gunn and DCU co-chair Peter Safran confirmed The Brave and the Bold will introduce a fresh Batman to their cinematic universe, explicitly ruling out Robert Pattinson's continued portrayal beyond Matt Reeves' separate franchise.

Safran and Gunn clarified Pattinson would remain exclusively within Reeves' The Batman Epic Crime Saga. The actor first donned the cape and cowl in 2022's The Batman, with The Batman - Part 2 officially in development.

However, last year brought another delay for The Batman Part 2, now slated for October 1, 2027. If finalized, this would create a five-year gap between Pattinson's debut as the Dark Knight and its follow-up.

This extended timeline raises questions about DCU's The Brave and the Bold schedule. Gunn faces the unusual predicament of potentially having two actors portraying Batman simultaneously across different DC continuities.

Gunn addressed these challenges candidly during a Rolling Stone interview (where he also discussed Snyderverse fandom and Superman title changes), dismissing speculation about Pattinson appearing in both franchises.

"Never say never," Gunn remarked, "but crossover is highly unlikely."

Amidst swirling rumors about The Batman - Part 2's cancellation, Gunn offered clarification: "The film isn't scrapped. Matt [Reeves] works meticulously - we should respect his creative process." He confirmed script development remains ongoing.

The Brave and the Bold Development Status

Attention shifts to The Brave and the Bold, potentially occupying The Batman Part 2's original 2027 slot. February reports indicated active development with Gunn praising story progress.

The Flash director Andy Muschietti remains a potential candidate pending script completion. Safran noted they'll present the screenplay to Muschietti once finalized, while Gunn emphasized his hands-on involvement.

Gunn recently explained his dual role: "I'm not writing Batman personally, but working closely with our chosen writer to perfect it." He identified Batman as DC's most pressing creative challenge alongside Wonder Woman.

The DCU architect outlined his vision for the Caped Crusader: "We need compelling narrative justification - Batman can't simply exist because he's Warner Bros.' most valuable IP. He must feel distinct from Matt's version, yet avoid campy interpretations."

Batman's DCU Debut

Episode 6 of DCU launch title Creature Commandos offered a brief glimpse of Batman surveying Gotham's rooftops. The silhouetted cameo showcased Batman confronting crime boss Doctor Phosphorus.

Gunn confirmed to Rotten Tomatoes TV he requested the ambiguous portrayal to avoid premature commitment to character specifics. This establishes Batman as an established figure within the DCU's current timeline, allowing creative freedom moving forward.

The director hinted at future team-ups: "This represents the DCU Batman - a character I've adored since childhood. Audiences will see incredible things from him, both individually and alongside Superman."