James Gunn's Game-Changing Animated Movie Revolutionizes DC's Theatrical Lineup

Summary

James Gunn's DC Universe will include theatrical animated films, something the DCEU never experimented with.

DC is renowned for its superior animation compared to Marvel in non-live-action productions, providing them with a distinct advantage. To further leverage this strength, DC Studios has the opportunity to release animated films in theaters, a strategy that Marvel Studios has not yet explored.

James Gunn's DC Universe, which will include animated films, is set to have a theatrical release, as confirmed by the co-CEO of DC Studios. With the conclusion of the DCEU this year and the formation of DC Studios by Warner Bros. Discovery, a fresh start for the brand's cinematic shared universe is on the horizon. Although most of the upcoming projects announced have been live-action, animation will also play a significant role, with the Creature Commandos TV show for Max being one of them.

While there haven't been any new announcements regarding animated shows since the initial Chapter 1, "Gods and Monsters," reveal in January, Gunn and Peter Safran may have just revealed an intriguing update about DC Studios.

When @VNsvis inquired about the possibility of theatrical animated projects in the future for the universe on Threads, Gunn responded with a straightforward "Yes." This response followed Gunn's earlier clarification that the forthcoming Justice League: Crisis on Infinite Earths animated movie is not affiliated with the DC Universe.

How DC Studios Can Finally Rival Marvel Studios In Animation, But Theatrically

While the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has had a stronger track record compared to the DC Extended Universe (DCEU), DC has found great success in the world of animation against their rival company for the past twenty years. With iconic shows like Batman: The Animated Series and Justice League: Unlimited, as well as numerous animated film adaptations, DC has built a solid reputation in the non-live-action format, surpassing Marvel. However, the MCU's animated projects began to receive positive reception with the release of Marvel Studios' What If...?

Interestingly, Marvel Studios has yet to release an animated film in theaters, which is a notable area of strength for DC Studios. Utilizing the practice of having actors who also portray live-action roles provide voices for animated characters, as seen in Gunn's DC Universe, gives DC the opportunity to expand beyond just animated shows. The question remains whether Marvel Studios will follow suit and start producing animated films for theatrical release.

The main question that remains is which DC animated films are currently being developed at DC Studios. Due to the ongoing strikes by the Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA, the announcement of these films may be delayed until contract negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers are resolved. However, the fact that animated theatrical releases are a part of the DC Universe adds even more excitement to "Gods and Monsters."