Highlights
James Gunn's takeover of the DCU suggests that Batman and Wonder Woman's relationship will be explored in future projects, potentially introducing a romantic angle.
Previous films have missed the mark in fully delving into the intricate relationship between Batman and Wonder Woman. However, there exists a promising opportunity to infuse their characters with greater depth and intensity through a romantic connection.
Given James Gunn's remarkable aptitude for crafting multi-dimensional characters and fostering enduring relationships, it is conceivable that the romance between Batman and Wonder Woman could emerge as a pivotal element within the fresh DCU universe.
James Gunn has exciting plans for how he envisions the future of the DC Universe (DCU) under his leadership. There is speculation among fans that these ambitious plans may include a shift in the dynamic between Batman and Wonder Woman. Taking over the DCU on November 1, 2022, Gunn wasted no time in getting started on his first project within this new cinematic universe. This inaugural project is reported to be Superman: Legacy, which will serve as the opening film in the reimagined DC Universe.
In a noteworthy change, Henry Cavill will no longer portray the Man of Steel. Newcomer David Corenswet has been chosen to take on the iconic role, while James Gunn will assume the responsibilities of directing. Following Superman: Legacy, the next installment titled The Brave and The Bold will delve into the origins of Batman and Robin. There are rumors circulating that John Krasinski is being considered for the role of Bruce Wayne in this anticipated movie.
Despite all the changes in casting, Gal Gadot will be returning as Wonder Woman in the third installment of the series, and it is anticipated that she will continue her role in James Gunn's new DCU universe. This presents an exciting opportunity for the potential exploration of the relationship between Batman and Wonder Woman in the future.
Batman and Wonder Woman's relationship in the comics
In 1939, Batman made his debut in comic books, followed by Wonder Woman in 1942. Despite having their own individual comic series, it wasn't until 1968, in an edition of The Brave and the Bold titled Batman and Wonder Woman, that the two characters finally crossed paths. This unique story introduced a peculiar antagonist known as Copperhead, who was a snake-man-lizard.
The role of Wonder Woman involved engaging in a heated conflict with Batgirl, supposedly centered on a fictitious love triangle with Batman. Unfortunately, this narrative did not effectively showcase the extraordinary abilities of these superheroes. Fortunately, times have changed significantly since 1968, and Wonder Woman has emerged as one of the most remarkable female champions. Interestingly, the comic in which they appeared shares its title with the upcoming Batman film, implying that the DC Universe intends to explore the origins of Batman and Wonder Woman's relationship, potentially hinting at a romantic connection.
Movies have not explored Batman and Wonder Woman's relationship
Prior to Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice, Batman and Wonder Woman had never made a joint appearance in any film. Despite their profound reliance on each other in coping with Superman's demise, no romantic relationship unfolded between them. Although this installment of the series exhibits significant flaws, it did succeed in reuniting two of DC's most exceptional superheroes.
In Justice League, Batman and Wonder Woman are shown to have developed a closer bond, but not as romantic partners. While they flirted, their relationship never progressed into a romantic entanglement. Despite the significant age gap, with Wonder Woman being around 5000 years old and Batman in his 40s, this doesn't seem to be a hurdle for them.
In Joss Whedon's version of Justice League, there was more noticeable sexual tension between the two superheroes, which was toned down in the Snyder cut. Audiences are not interested in seeing Wonder Woman reduced to being Batman's romantic sidekick. The character deserves more than that and has demonstrated her ability to stand on her own without relying on a wealthy man in a suit. However, introducing romance could potentially add compelling drama to future projects in James Gunn's DCU.
The DCU can make Batman and Wonder Woman's romance central
James Gunn, known for his successful development of multifaceted characters and their enduring relationships in popular cinematic universes like Marvel Studio's Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy, has the opportunity to captivate audiences once again. With his new position in charge of the DCU universe, there is hope that Gunn can bring forth a central romance between Batman and Wonder Woman, showcasing their dynamic and allowing the audience to truly invest in their relationship.
Traditionally, the spotlight in DC Comic book movies has been on the romance between Superman and Lois Lane. However, as this dynamic has been explored numerous times before, the audience is growing weary of it. While it is expected that Superman and Lois Lane's relationship will be addressed in the upcoming Superman: Legacy movie, there should be a greater emphasis on the potential romance between Batman and Wonder Woman. Their shared superhero status, with Wonder Woman wielding greater power, adds an intriguing dynamic that could captivate viewers.
Batman has never encountered a female character who surpasses him in strength, which could potentially expose a more vulnerable aspect of the caped crusader, particularly in the realm of romantic involvement. Despite the romantic moments shared by Batman and Catwoman, their dynamic has consistently presented Batman as the superior figure, primarily due to his wealth in contrast to Catwoman's modest origins.