The DC Extended Universe (DCEU) is an unofficial term used to refer to an American media franchise and shared universe that is centered on a series of superhero films, distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures and based on characters that appear in American comic books by DC Comics. The shared universe, much like the original DC Universe in comic books and the television programs, was established by crossing over common plot elements, settings, cast, and characters. The films have been in production since 2011 and in that time Warner Bros. has distributed five films with more than twenty in various stages of production. The series, has grossed over $3.765 billion at the global box office, currently making it the twelfth highest-grossing film franchise.
The films are written and directed by a variety of individuals and feature large, often ensemble, casts. Several actors, including Henry Cavill, Ben Affleck, Amy Adams, Gal Gadot, Ezra Miller, Jason Momoa, and Ray Fisher, have appeared in numerous films of the franchise, with continued appearances in sequels planned. In May 2016, DC's chief creative officer Geoff Johns and Warner Bros. executive vice president Jon Berg were appointed to co-run the DC Films division and oversee creative decisions, production and story-arcs in order to create a cohesive overarching plot within the films. In January 2018, Walter Hamada was appointed the president of DC Films, replacing Berg.
The first film in the DCEU was Man of Steel (2013), which was followed by Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016), Suicide Squad (2016), Wonder Woman (2017) and Justice League (2017). Future films with scheduled release dates include: Aquaman (2018), Shazam! (2019), Wonder Woman 2 (2019), Cyborg (2020) and Green Lantern Corps (2020). Other projects with confirmed titles that are also in various stages of development: Batgirl, The Batman, Black Adam, Flashpoint, Gotham City Sirens, Justice League Dark, Nightwing, and Suicide Squad 2. In addition, films focusing on the Birds of Prey, Booster Gold, Deadshot, Deathstroke, Harley Quinn, Harley Quinn and the Joker, and Lobo, as well as sequels to Justice League and Man of Steel are also in active development.
Video DC Extended Universe
Development
In 2002, Wolfgang Petersen was set to direct a Batman vs. Superman film from a script by Akiva Goldsman. Warner Bros. canceled development to focus on individual Superman and Batman projects after J. J. Abrams submitted another draft for Superman: Flyby. In February 2007, Warner Bros. hired husband and wife duo Michele and Kieran Mulroney to write a script for a Justice League film. Christian Bale, who starred as Batman in Batman Begins (2005), was not approached to reprise the role, nor was Brandon Routh, who starred as Superman in Superman Returns (2006). George Miller was hired to direct the film, reportedly titled Justice League Mortal, with Armie Hammer cast as Batman, D. J. Cotrona as Superman, Adam Brody as Flash, Santiago Cabrera as Aquaman, Common as Green Lantern, Megan Gale as Wonder Woman, Hugh Keays-Byrne as Martian Manhunter and Jay Baruchel as Maxwell Lord. The project was put on indefinite hold in January 2008, after failing to secure tax breaks for filming in Australia, as well as the 2007-2008 Writers Guild of America strike preventing progress on the script.
In 2013, a reboot of the Superman franchise, Man of Steel, was set to lay the groundwork for future DC films. The film contained references to other characters in the DC Universe, so if it were a success, it could launch a shared universe. Days before Man of Steel's release in June, it was reported that director Zack Snyder and screenwriter David S. Goyer would be returning for a sequel, which was being fast-tracked by Warner Bros. In July, at San Diego Comic-Con, it was revealed that the sequel would include Batman in a main role, thus establishing the shared universe. In October 2014, Warner Bros. announced a slate of ten DC films.
Upon announcement, the universe was commonly called the "DC Cinematic Universe" by fans and the media, in keeping with the naming convention of the already established Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Keith Staskiewicz, writing for Entertainment Weekly, coined the term "DC Extended Universe(TM)" as a joke on an article of his about Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice on July 1, 2015. This and the abbreviation DCEU quickly spread among the press and fans thinking of it as the official name of the franchise over the following years. According to Vulture writer Abraham Riesman?, DC confirmed to him in September 2017 that the term is not used internally and they do not consider it official. While the MCU includes television productions, the DCEU is a shared continuity for films. Several television series featuring DC characters and storylines have their own shared continuity, frequently referred to as the Arrowverse. DC's chief creative officer Geoff Johns explained DC's difference in approach to Marvel Studios and their cinematic universe, saying, "We look at it as the multiverse. We have our TV universe and our film universe, but they all co-exist. For us, creatively, it's about allowing everyone to make the best possible product, to tell the best story, to do the best world. Everyone has a vision and you really want to let the visions shine through ... It's just a different approach." In June 2015, Warner Bros. president of creative development Greg Silverman expanded on DC's approach to their cinematic universe, saying, "We ... take these beloved characters and put them in the hands of master filmmakers and make sure they all coordinate with each other. You'll see the difference when you see ... the things that we are working on."
In May 2016, following criticism of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, Warner Bros. established a DC Films division with Geoff Johns and Warner Bros. executive vice president Jon Berg as its heads, which oversees production to form a cohesive creative direction for the franchise. DC Films will not be fully autonomous, with Johns reporting to DC president Diane Nelson and Berg reporting to Silverman. Charles Roven was also moved from his day-by-day producer role on future DC films, which he had served since 2005's Batman Begins, to an administrative executive producer role. In December, Silverman was ousted from his role in Warner Bros., and Toby Emmerich was promoted to president and chief content officer, in his place. Later in 2016, as part of DC Films Presents: Dawn of the Justice League!, both Geoff Johns and Kevin Smith referred to the franchise's name as being the "Justice League Universe". As of January 2017, Johns and Berg report to Emmerich. Following the financial and critical success of Wonder Woman in June 2017, Johns stated that moving forward the films will focus on the heart, humor, hope, heroics, and optimism of the characters. In December 2017, Berg was announced to be leaving his position in January 2018 and will instead be partnering with Roy Lee.
In January 2018, Walter Hamada was appointed the President of DC Films and the new co-runner of the DCEU, replacing Berg. The following month, Chantal Nong was hired as Vice President of the film studio. The pair will jointly oversee the future of the franchise with Johns, as the key production team managers.
Maps DC Extended Universe
Films
Released
Man of Steel (2013)
Kal-El / Clark Kent, who arrived on Earth years ago as an infant from Krypton, struggles with why he was sent to Earth. Raised by his adoptive parents, Jonathan and Martha Kent, Clark adopts the persona "Superman", and learns if his abilities are meant to maintain peace or conquer the world.
During story discussions for The Dark Knight Rises, David S. Goyer told Christopher Nolan his idea regarding how to present Superman in a modern context. Impressed with Goyer's concept, Nolan pitched the idea to the studio, who hired Nolan to produce and Goyer to write based on the financial and critical success of The Dark Knight. Zack Snyder was hired in October 2010 to direct the film. In January 2011, Henry Cavill was cast as Clark Kent / Superman. Other cast members included Amy Adams as Lois Lane, Michael Shannon as the villain General Zod, Diane Lane as Martha Kent, Kevin Costner as Jonathan Kent, Russell Crowe as Jor-El, and Laurence Fishburne as Perry White. Principal photography began on August 1, 2011. Man of Steel released in North America on June 14, 2013.
Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016)
Gotham City-based vigilante Batman travels to Metropolis to preemptively combat Superman, fearing what would happen if the latter is kept unchecked, while another threat endangers humankind.
In June 2013, it was reported that Snyder and Goyer would be returning for a sequel to Man of Steel, which was being fast-tracked by Warner Bros. Nolan was involved in an advisory role as executive producer. In July, at the San Diego Comic-Con, Warner Bros. announced that Superman and Batman would meet for the first time in a cinematic format in the film, which would be the follow-up to Man of Steel and a reboot of the Batman film series. According to Snyder, the film took inspiration from the comic The Dark Knight Returns. Cavill, Adams, Lane, and Fishburne reprised their roles. In August, Ben Affleck was cast as Bruce Wayne / Batman. In December, Gal Gadot was cast as Diana Prince / Wonder Woman, marking the character's first appearance in a live-action theatrical film. Later in the month, Chris Terrio was hired to rewrite Goyer's script. In January 2014, the film was delayed from its July 17, 2015, release date to May 6, 2016, to give the filmmakers "time to realize fully their vision, given the complex visual nature of the story". Later that month, Jesse Eisenberg and Jeremy Irons joined the cast as Lex Luthor and Alfred Pennyworth, respectively. In May 2014, the film's title was revealed to be Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. Initial filming occurred on October 19, 2013, at East Los Angeles College, before full principal photography began on May 21, 2014, in Detroit. Production also took place in Illinois, New Mexico, Africa and the South Pacific. After another date change, the film was released in North America on March 25, 2016.
The film is set 18 months after the events of Man of Steel. Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice introduced Ezra Miller as Barry Allen / The Flash, Jason Momoa as Arthur Curry / Aquaman and Ray Fisher as Victor Stone / Cyborg, whose roles will be expanded upon in future films. The film also introduced Steppenwolf, who will serve as the main antagonist in Justice League, through a brief scene. The scene was not included in the film's theatrical release, but instead was revealed online by Warner Bros. on March 28, before being included in the Ultimate Edition home video release.
Suicide Squad (2016)
After the death of Superman, a secret government agency recruits imprisoned supervillains to execute dangerous black ops missions and rescue the world from a powerful threat, in exchange for clemency.
In February 2009, prior to the development of the DCEU, Warner Bros. was developing a Suicide Squad film, with Dan Lin producing and Justin Marks writing the script. In October 2014, Suicide Squad was announced by Warner Bros., with David Ayer confirmed as director. In December, it was revealed that Ayer would also be writing the screenplay. The main cast included Will Smith as Deadshot, Margot Robbie as Harley Quinn, Jared Leto as the Joker, Jai Courtney as Captain Boomerang, Jay Hernandez as El Diablo, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje as Killer Croc, Karen Fukuhara as Katana, Cara Delevingne as Enchantress, Viola Davis as Amanda Waller, and Joel Kinnaman as Rick Flag. Tom Hardy was originally cast as Rick Flag, but dropped out due to scheduling issues with his film The Revenant. Principal photography commenced April 13, 2015, and took place in and around Toronto. Filming concluded August 28, 2015. Suicide Squad was released in North America on August 5, 2016.
The film is set after the events of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. Affleck as Bruce Wayne / Batman and Miller as Barry Allen / The Flash made appearances in the film. In a mid-credits scene, Waller meets Wayne in a restaurant and hands him a dossier containing information on future members of the Justice League.
Wonder Woman (2017)
Diana of Themyscira, an Amazon warrior who also is the demigoddess daughter of the god Zeus, uses her talents and abilities in order to help humanity during World War I.
In December 2013, Gal Gadot was cast as Diana Prince / Wonder Woman and signed a three-picture deal which included a solo film. In October 2014, Wonder Woman was announced by Warner Bros. In November, Michelle MacLaren was confirmed to direct the film from a screenplay by Jason Fuchs. In April 2015, MacLaren left the project due to creative differences. Later that month, Patty Jenkins was announced as the new director of the film. In July, Chris Pine was cast as Steve Trevor. Other cast members include Connie Nielsen as Queen Hippolyta, Robin Wright as General Antiope, Danny Huston as Erich Ludendorff, Elena Anaya as Doctor Poison, and David Thewlis as Ares. Filming began in November 2015, and was shot in the United Kingdom, France and Italy. Wonder Woman was released in North America on June 2, 2017.
Justice League (2017)
Motivated by Superman's death at the hands of Doomsday, Bruce Wayne / Batman and Diana Prince / Wonder Woman assemble a team of metahumans to face a new catastrophic threat.
In June 2013, it was reported that Goyer would be writing Justice League as part of a three-film deal he signed for Man of Steel. In April 2014, it was announced that Snyder would return as director. The film was announced in October as Justice League Part One. In March 2016, it was confirmed that Chris Terrio had written the script, who said that the film would not be as tonally dark as Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. In June, Geoff Johns announced that the title had been changed to simply Justice League. Affleck, Cavill, Gadot, Momoa, Miller, Fisher, Irons, Lane, Adams, Eisenberg, Nielsen and Wright will reprise their respective roles from previous films. Ciarán Hinds provides the voice and performance capture for the villain Steppenwolf. Beginning on April 11, 2016, filming took place at Warner Bros. Studios, Leavesden, in England, as well as locations around London and in Iceland. Filming concluded in October 2016. In May 2017, Snyder stepped down from his duties on the film due to his daughter's death; Joss Whedon filled his position on post-production, with additional scenes being written and directed by him. Justice League was released worldwide on November 17, 2017.
Justice League introduced various characters, including J. K. Simmons as James Gordon, Amber Heard as Mera, Kiersey Clemons as Iris West (although her scenes were cut from final film), and Billy Crudup as Henry Allen. It was officially reported in August 2017 that Whedon would receive a screenwriting credit for the film.
Upcoming
Aquaman (2018)
Following the events of Justice League, Arthur Curry / Aquaman must fight to retain the Atlantean throne from opposing threats.
In June 2014, Jason Momoa was cast as Arthur Curry / Aquaman. By August, Will Beall and Kurt Johnstad were writing competing scripts for the character's solo film. Aquaman was announced in October. In June 2015, James Wan was hired as director, as well as to oversee the screenplay by Johnstad. The film's plot takes place after the events of Justice League. In November 2015, David Leslie Johnson was hired to write a new script. In July 2016, Beall returned to write the script, based on a story treatment by Wan and Geoff Johns. In December, Patrick Wilson was cast as Orm / Ocean Master, the half-brother of Aquaman and the main antagonist of the film. In January 2017, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II was cast in the role of villain Black Manta. In March, Nicole Kidman confirmed that she will play Queen Atlanna, Aquaman's mother. In April, Dolph Lundgren was cast as the villain King Nereus. Heard and Dafoe will reprise their roles from Justice League. Other cast members include Temuera Morrison as Aquaman's father Tom Curry, and Ludi Lin as Murk, an ally of Aquaman. In June, Deadline Hollywood reported that Johnson had returned to the project to work on a rewrite of Beall's script with Safran and Wan. Principal photography began on May 2, 2017, in Queensland, Australia and wrapped on October 21, 2017. Aquaman is scheduled to be released in North America on December 21, 2018.
Shazam! (2019)
In August 2014, Dwayne Johnson announced his attachment to a project about the superhero Shazam, formerly known as Captain Marvel. In September, it was revealed that Johnson would portray Shazam's nemesis, the anti-hero Black Adam, in the film, and that he and Hiram Garcia would serve as producers, with Darren Lemke set to write the script. New Line Cinema president Toby Emmerich told Entertainment Weekly that the film will have a tone unto itself different from other comic book films; with a sense of fun and humor, but with real stakes. In October, Warner Bros. announced Shazam as a film in its upcoming slate. By January 2017, Henry Gayden was working on the script. In July, David F. Sandberg was confirmed as director of the film, while production will begin in early 2018.
Despite the initial announcement, Dwayne Johnson will not appear as Black Adam in Shazam, but will still star in his own solo film. Sandberg stated that he will cast both a child and an adult to play the dual role of the titular character. Pre-production started when the casting process for Billy Batson began in August 2017. By October 2017, Zachary Levi was cast as the titular role. In November, Grace Fulton joined the cast as the title character's sister, Mary Batson. Fulton is reteaming with the director after Annabelle: Creation. The film's primary villain will be Doctor Thaddeus Sivana, with actor Mark Strong cast in the role. Later that month, Asher Angel was cast as the titular hero's child-age alter ego William "Billy" Batson. In December, Jack Dylan Grazer was cast as Frederick "Freddy" Freeman, Batson's best friend. Later that month, Jovan Armand, Ian Chen, and Faithe Herman were cast as Pedro Peña, Eugene Choi, and Darla Dudley, while Cooper Andrews and Marta Milans will portray Billy's foster parents. When asked in an interview with KTLA what direction Warner Bros., DC Films, and New Line Cinema were taking the film Levi stated: "...the hope is that's it's gonna feel like the movie Big, but with super powers". Later that month, Johnson announced that though he was originally attached to the project there is now a different creative team involved, stating his excitement in the decision for the studios to split the originally planned film into two separate movies. In January 2018, Ron Cephas Jones is set to portray the wizard, Shazam, who gives Billy his powers.
The film began principal photography in Toronto on January 29, 2018, and it's scheduled to last until May 2018 under the working title "Franklin", with filming taking place at Pinewood Toronto Studios. Shazam! will be released in North America on April 5, 2019.
Wonder Woman 2 (2019)
By June 2017, Geoff Johns and Patty Jenkins had begun work on the story treatment for a Wonder Woman sequel. By July, Johns announced that he is working on the script for the film. That same month, the sequel was officially announced at San Diego Comic-Con. By August, Jenkins was in final negotiations to return as director, officially signing the deal a month later, with confirmation that Gadot will be returning as the title character. By September, Jenkins brought on David Callaham to pen the script with her and Johns. The film is reported to take place in the Cold War. Patty Jenkins reported online, that the film will be another great love story with a new love interest being cast. Pre-production began in early December, 2017, according to director Patty Jenkins, with filming scheduled to start in June 2018, under the working title, "Magic Hour." Production will be returning to Warner Bros. Studios, Leavesden in the United Kingdom. By March 2018, Kristen Wiig was cast to portray the film's primary antagonist, Barbara Ann Minerva / Cheetah. Wonder Woman 2 is scheduled to be released in North America on November 1, 2019.
Cyborg (2020)
In April 2014, Ray Fisher was cast as Victor Stone / Cyborg. In October, Warner Bros. announced that the character's solo film will be titled Cyborg. In August 2017, Joe Morton stated that he signed a three-picture deal and that he will reprise his role as Dr. Silas Stone. In November 2017, Fisher stated that the film is still in development and that the story would have an intimate angle, focusing on the character, so that the audience doesn't wonder why the rest of the Justice League doesn't show up in the film. The actor stated that the film will have a lot of diversity in its production team, as well as its cast. In addition, Fisher stated that he already knows in which of the upcoming films he will first reprise his role, though he can't reveal that information. Cyborg is scheduled to be released in North America in 2020.
Green Lantern Corps (2020)
In October 2014, Warner Bros. announced a Green Lantern film. The title was revealed as Green Lantern Corps in July 2015 at San Diego Comic-Con. In January 2017, David S. Goyer and Justin Rhodes were hired to co-write the screenplay, based on a story draft by Goyer and Geoff Johns, while the former will also be involved as a producer. The film was described by the studio as "Lethal Weapon in space". In January 2018, Goyer confirmed that while Warner Bros. is changing the leadership of DC Films as a response to the negative critical reception to Justice League, the movie is still in development and moving forward. By March of the same year, multiple sources reported that the studio is pursuing Christopher McQuarrie as the director for the film. Green Lantern Corps is scheduled to be released in North America in 2020.
In development
Warner Bros. Studios has a variety of films in varying stages of development. The films which have been announced to be in development, are part of the shared film universe, but do not yet have official release dates are listed hereafter in alphabetical order, followed by the films that do not yet have an official title.
Batgirl
In March 2017, Joss Whedon was hired to write, direct and produce a Barbara Gordon / Batgirl-centric film. According to Entertainment Weekly, the film will draw inspiration from The New 52 comics by Gail Simone. In April, Whedon stated that he was drawn to the character because of her choice to become a vigilante, even though she did not have a childhood tragedy like Bruce Wayne / Batman had, and that the damaged aspect of the character will be explored in the film. In July, Geoff Johns stated that Whedon will begin production on the film in 2018. At the San Diego Comic-Con, the title was announced to be Batgirl. After varied response to the reshoots and retooling of Justice League by Whedon, his role with Batgirl came into question, which prompted Warner Bros. to make an official announcement that the filmmaker is currently working on the film's script. In February 2018, The Hollywood Reporter announced that Batgirl will be one of the studio's next movies to go into production. That same month however, Whedon stepped down as writer/director of the project stating that he didn't feel like he would adequately adapt the character's story. The studio is reportedly taking their time in finding replacements for Whedon and are actively looking for a female director, while Roxane Gay has been confirmed to be having discussions about writing the screenplay.
The Batman
In October 2014, Warner Bros. announced that a Batman standalone film was in development, with Affleck set to reprise the role. By July 2015, Affleck was in negotiations to also produce, direct and co-write the screenplay with Geoff Johns. In March 2016, William Morris Endeavor's co-CEO Patrick Whitesell stated that Affleck had written a screenplay for a Batman film. In April, Warner Bros. confirmed that Affleck would direct the film. In May, Jeremy Irons confirmed that he was "tied into The Batman", while Affleck stated that the film would borrow from the comics, but mainly be an "original story". In August, Affleck teased Slade Wilson / Deathstroke on social media through test footage. Geoff Johns later revealed that the character will be played by Joe Manganiello. In October, Affleck stated the intended title for the film was The Batman, adding "At least that's what we're going with now. I might change it." In December, Affleck confirmed that the film was on track to begin shooting in Q1/Q2 2017. Later that month, Warner Bros. executive Greg Silverman stated that the film would be released in 2018. In January 2017, in an interview with The Guardian, Affleck stated that the film does not have a set script, and that he will only direct it if he feels like it will be a great movie. Later that month, Affleck stepped down as director in order to more efficiently focus on starring as the eponymous role. He will continue to serve as writer, producer, and star of the film. Upon Affleck's announcement, it was noted by Deadline that Chris Terrio had turned in a rewrite of the original script by Affleck and Johns. In February, Warner Bros. announced the title as The Batman and that Matt Reeves would direct and co-produce the film. In June, Reeves stated that the movie will focus on the detective side of the character, with a Hitchcock-influenced noir style that emphasizes seeing into Batman's mind and heart in the storytelling techniques. In July, Reeves confirmed that the script was being re-written so as to be in line with his style and vision for the film. On Twitter, Reeves noted that "if everything goes well" the production would begin in early 2018 for The Batman.
Black Adam
In January 2017, it was reported that Dwayne Johnson will feature in his own film, as the anti-hero Black Adam. Johnson has since revealed that Black Adam will debut in the franchise sooner than expected and that there will be a Black Adam and Superman fight in the DCEU, though he cannot state where and when. In October 2017, it was announced that Adam Sztykiel was hired as screenwriter for the film, titled Black Adam, with the report stating that Johnson will act as co-producer with Hiram Garcia, in their Seven Bucks Productions studio. In December, Johnson mentioned in an interview that the studio had a plan for splitting Shazam into two movies, saying "I think they've got a great plan over there with him and I wish those guys the best of luck," Johnson said. "We had to split the idea because the obvious idea was Black Adam and Shazam. So we split it. Those guys are gonna do great with it."
Flashpoint
In July 2013, it was reported that Greg Berlanti, who is involved with The CW's The Flash series, was developing a Flash film for Warner Bros. In October 2014, The Flash was announced, and Ezra Miller was cast as the Barry Allen incarnation of the character. In April 2015, a story treatment for the film was being written by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller. The studio was also courting the duo to direct, but signed Seth Grahame-Smith as screenwriter and director in October after scheduling conflicts with Lord and Miller. Grahame-Smith dropped out due to creative differences in April 2016, but the studio retained his script. In June, Rick Famuyiwa was hired to direct the film. The following month, Kiersey Clemons was cast as Iris West. By August, it was revealed that Ray Fisher would reprise his role as Victor Stone / Cyborg in the movie. In September, Billy Crudup was cast as Barry's father, Henry Allen. The next month, Famuyiwa also left the project citing creative differences with the studio as the reason. In January 2017, Joby Harold was hired to do a page-one rewrite of the script. In May, the studio reportedly had Robert Zemeckis, Matthew Vaughn, and Sam Raimi on a shortlist of possible directors for the film. Later that month, Raimi and Marc Webb had withdrawn their names from the potential director position. In June, TheWrap reported that Lord and Miller were again available, and in discussions to direct the film. In July at San Diego Comic-Con, the title for the film was revealed to have been changed to Flashpoint, based on the comic book story arc of the same name. In September 2017, Deadline reported that Gal Gadot will reprise her role as Diana Prince / Wonder Woman in the movie. Later that month it was reported that the script was finished and that Zemeckis is still in negotiations to direct the movie, while Lord and Miller dropped out of discussions due to filmmakers signing on to direct an adaptation of Andy Weir's novel Artemis.
By November, producer Toby Emmerich stated the studio is close to hiring a director, after reaffirming the high priority of Flashpoint and the studio's expectation for The Flash to be a stand-out character in Justice League. In an interview with Toronto Sun, Miller stated that though he can't state specifics, the long process of making sure that the studio gets the story right is paying off, as Flashpoint announcements will soon be released. Later that month, Johns confirmed that the story of Thomas Wayne's Batman is a key element in the plot of the film. Jeffrey Dean Morgan has expressed interest in reprising the role from Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. At the ACE Comic Con, Miller later revealed that filming and production on the film will begin in the near future. In February 2018, it was announced that filmmaking duo John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein, started contractual negotiations to direct the film. The studio reportedly had tried to hire Ben Affleck as director, who passed on the opportunity, after Zemeckis couldn't free up his work schedule. Later that month, The Hollywood Reporter announced that Flashpoint will be one of DC Films' next adaptations to go into production. By March, Daley confirms their involvement with the film, with Screen Rant reporting that the film will begin production late-2018.
The film's plot takes place after the events of Justice League.
Gotham City Sirens
In May 2016, it was reported that a Harley Quinn spin-off film, which will also feature other female villains, was in development. Margot Robbie will reprise her role as Quinn, and will serve as executive producer through her newly established production company, LuckyChap Entertainment. In December, David Ayer was hired to direct and produce the film, titled Gotham City Sirens, based on the comic book series, from a screenplay by Geneva Robertson-Dworet. Leto will reprise his role as the Joker in the film.
Justice League Dark
In January 2013, Guillermo del Toro confirmed that he was working on a film with the working title Dark Universe, based on the superhero team Justice League Dark. He revealed that Dr. Alec Holland / Swamp Thing, John Constantine / Hellblazer, Jason Blood / Etrigan The Demon, Jim Corrigan / The Spectre, Nimue Inwudu / Madame Xanadu, Boston Brand / Deadman, and Zatanna Zatara would be characters in the story, which would center around Constantine recruiting several of these characters. The film would not be an origin story, with each character already established and elements of their backstory coming into play throughout the film. In November 2014, del Toro submitted the script to Warner Bros. to be reviewed. In December, del Toro revealed that the film would be a part of the DC Extended Universe. By June 2015, del Toro was no longer attached to the project as director. In August 2016, Doug Liman was hired to direct the film, with Scott Rudin producing and Michael Gilio writing the script. In May 2017, Liman dropped out as director due to scheduling conflicts. After Liman's departure, Andres Muschietti was considered by the studio to helm the project, but eventually turned down the offer, in favor of It Chapter 2. At the San Diego Comic-Con in July 2017, the film's title was announced to be Justice League Dark. In August 2017, it was reported that Gilio's script is going to be rewritten after studio executives were underwhelmed by recent pitches from possible directors. That same month, Gerard Johnstone was hired to work on the film's script. Gareth Evans was also offered the role as director but passed on the project, when his pitch for the untitled Deathstroke film was accepted by the studio. In December, Joseph Kahn released concept art from his rejected story pitch, via his Twitter account, showing designs for members of the team's roster: Etrigan the Demon, Zatanna, Swamp Thing, John Constantine and the Deadman. That same month We Got This Covered reported that the studio is considering hiring Peter Jackson to direct the movie. By February 2018, Alex Garland expressed interest in adapting Swamp Thing in a feature film.
Nightwing
In February 2017, the Hollywood Reporter reported that there is a film centered on Dick Grayson / Nightwing in development, with Chris McKay and Bill Dubuque signed on as director and screenwriter respectively. In discussing what he is looking for in casting the character, McKay cited the level of physical activity the actor will have to endure, including martial arts, gymnastics and stunts as what will be required for the role. In an interview with Collider, McKay confirmed the film's title to be Nightwing. Discussing why he likes the character and signed on for the project, McKay cited the character's showman personality and background as an entertainer and expressed his excitement for depicting that in the film. He later stated that he wants to introduce a complete adaptation of the character, something that hasn't been done in previous film interpretations of him before. McKay explained that the director-driven approach is why he loves Warner Bros., and how the franchise is differentiating itself from other popular shared universes. In an interview with Cinemablend the director confirmed that the film would acknowledge the titular character's past from the source material, including his time as a part of Haly's Circus, and also reaffirmed that the film will be a straightforward action movie with grounded realism and minimal use of CGI special effects.
In November 2017, McKay announced on his Twitter profile that the script was finished, expressing his love for it, while also stating that pre-production could start as early as 2018. In the same feed, the director confirmed that the film will have an open casting call for the lead character. Using his social media account, McKay stated that production news will be announced in February 2018 near Valentine's Day. In February, McKay reported that the script is near its final draft, after which he will report to the studio, to further the development process. He also stated that there will be news regarding the shared universe sometime within the year.
Suicide Squad 2
In March 2016, it was reported that a Suicide Squad sequel is in development. In February 2017, the studio had a shortlist of potential directors for the project, including Mel Gibson, Jonathan Levine, Ruben Fleischer and Daniel Espinosa. In March, Adam Cozad was hired to write the script. Due to delays with the script, Gibson passed on the project and by July, Jaume Collet-Serra was named as the studio's first choice to be director of the sequel. Zak Penn submitted a story treatment and stated that a new script is in the process of being written. Collet-Serra later dropped out of negations to direct. That same month, the film was officially titled Suicide Squad 2 at San Diego Comic-Con. In September 2017, Gavin O'Connor was officially hired as screenwriter and director.
In January 2018, Variety reported that esteemed writer/producer Michael De Luca had joined the project as producer, while also confirming that Will Smith, Margot Robbie, and Jared Leto will each reprise their roles from the first film. Later that month Joel Kinnaman revealed on his social media that he is training with Jai Courtney and Jay Hernandez, for the reprisal of their characters from the first film. Suicide Squad 2 is reported to begin production in October 2018.
Untitled Birds of Prey film
In November 2016, it was reported by The Wrap that a film focusing on the Birds of Prey is currently in development, with Christina Hodson signed on to the project as screenwriter. Margot Robbie will reprise her role as Harleen Quinzel / Harley Quinn and also serve as producer. Multiple DC Comics' female superheroes and supervillains will reportedly feature in the movie's plot.
By January 2018, the same source stated that the film is still in active development. It was reported that Robbie has become a fan of the Birds of Prey through their comic books and reaffirmed it to be one of three consecutive movies that she will reprise her role from Suicide Squad.
Untitled Booster Gold film
In September 2015, a film centered around Michael Jon Carter / Booster Gold and Theodore "Ted" Kord / Blue Beetle was announced to be in development by Greg Berlanti, who is one of the central creative-minds behind The CW's Arrowverse television franchise. Zak Penn began work on a script during the project's early stages, with the story described as a "buddy cop film" in tone. The movie was said to have connections to Justice League, as the characters interact and have association within the JLA source material. As the film evolved over time it was considered to have no immediate "connective tissue" to the film franchise, with the project eventually being shopped around to several networks before settling on Syfy for a television series adaptation. This changed in 2016, when Zack Stentz was confirmed to be doing a rewrite of the script for a feature film, which will reportedly not feature Booster Gold's friend and frequent ally, Blue Beetle. After years of being involved in the project's development, Berlanti was courted by the studio to act as director. The film is intended to be, and will serve as, a more comedic installment within the DCEU.
By March 2018, Berlanti confirmed his role as co-writer/director/co-producer; and stated that the film is still in active development, while the studio decides where it will "...fit into their greater landscape...they're still kind of determining their order of business on that end."
Untitled Deadshot film
In December 2016, The Hollywood Reporter announced that a Deadshot solo movie is in development with Smith reprising his role as Lawton. The film was announced as a spin-off of Suicide Squad.
Untitled Deathstroke film
In October 2017, TheWrap announced that a Deathstroke solo film is in development. Gareth Evans is in negotiations to be the screenwriter and director, with Joe Manganiello reprising his role from Justice League (2017), as Slade Wilson / Deathstroke.
Originally cast as the primary villain for The Batman when Affleck was attached to the film as screenwriter/director/producer, in addition to starring as the titular character, the filmmaker released official test footage with Manganiello in costume. Once Affleck stepped down as director so he could more specifically focus on his portrayal of Batman, and Reeves was hired as his replacement, the script was given a rewrite to fit the latter's style and vision for the film. The role of Deathstroke as the primary villain in the movie came into question with Manganiello stating that he knew the studio's plans, but wasn't allowed to comment.
Though the character's role in The Batman is currently unknown, the studio will develop a movie centered around the character after Evans impressed executives with his story pitch. Initially in the running to direct Justice League Dark, Evans presented his ideas for the film's story and convinced Warner Bros. that the film should be made.
Untitled Harley Quinn film
In November 2017, Robbie stated that she will start filming scenes reprising her role from Suicide Squad sometime the following year, though it wasn't clarified which movie she will appear in first. Later that month she reaffirmed that besides Suicide Squad 2, Gotham City Sirens, and the Harley Quinn/Joker film, she will also appear in another movie as the character, which she has been developing as producer for over two years. Robbie stated that the film will explore the character's interactions with other female characters, and that the character is very important to the studio in the shared universe franchise.
Untitled Harley Quinn and the Joker film
In July 2017, Screen Rant reported that a film featuring the Joker and Harley Quinn was in early development. The film, a spin-off of Suicide Squad, was tentatively given the working-title of Harley Quinn vs. The Joker. In August 2017, the film was confirmed by the studio to be in active development, with Leto and Robbie reprising their roles, though the film is now described as a "criminal love story" and is untitled. In a later report, Glenn Ficarra and John Requa were named as being in final negotiations to co-write and co-direct the film. After speculation, it was later confirmed by Forbes that the untitled Harley Quinn and the Joker film is a separate project from Gotham City Sirens. By September, Robbie confirmed the roles of Ficarra and Requa as writers/directors/producers for the film, as well as her role as executive producer.
Untitled Justice League sequel
In October 2014, Warner Bros. announced the film as Justice League Part Two, with Snyder returning as director. In June 2016, it was revealed that Justice League would be a standalone story, leaving the sequel untitled. Originally scheduled to be released on June 14, 2019, the film was reportedly pushed back to an unspecified date to make room for The Batman. By October 2017, J.K. Simmons stated in an interview with Total Film magazine that the film is still in development, with work on a script in-progress. The film was teased during the post-credits-scene of Justice League. In December 2017, it was reported that there were 'no immediate plans' for Zack Snyder to direct a Justice League sequel, or any other DC films, with Snyder instead being relegated to an executive producer position. This comes after a restructuring of film production staff at Warner Bros. due to the first film's mixed reception and performance.
Untitled Lobo film
Warner Bros. announced in September 2009 that a feature film focusing on the DC Comics character Lobo was in development. That same year, Deadline reported that Guy Ritchie would direct the film, and that production would begin in early 2010. His "irreverent, gruff tone" from his previous work would be utilized for the adaptation, though the studio was aiming for a PG-13 rating from the MPAA. In their coverage of the film's development, Variety described the film's premise as: "Lobo is a seven-foot tall, gray-skinned, indestructible, and heavily muscled antihero who drives a pimped out motorcycle, and lands on Earth in search of four fugitives who are bent on wreaking havoc. Lobo teams with a small town teenage girl to stop the creatures." However, by 2010 Ritchie left the project to pursue a sequel to his box-office hit, Sherlock Holmes and the film was put on hold. By April 2012, Brad Peyton had signed on as writer and director, with Dwayne Johnson entering negotiations to play the titular character in July. By the next year, Johnson had signed on to portray Black Adam in the shared universe, withdrawing from the running to play Lobo.
In March 2016, it was reported that Jason Fuchs was working on a re-write of the screenplay. In June of the same year, the screenwriter confirmed that the character would be portrayed as he was in the original comic book story arcs. By February 2018, Michael Bay was considered by the studio to direct the film, as the studio hopes to release the movie before Peyton's schedule allows. Bay reportedly made notes regarding the script and Fuchs is working on a script re-write to lessen the budget, as the current draft has the possibility of costing $200 million to produce. Once the final draft of the script is turned in, final negotiations between Bay and Warner Bros. will take place, and the studio will begin active development on production. Later that month, Fuchs stated that getting the depiction and tone of the character correct, is as important as Wonder Woman was. He revealed that the script he is writing draws inspiration from the work that Keith Giffen and Alan Grant had done with the character.
Untitled Man of Steel sequel
In October 2014, Warner Bros. announced that a sequel to Man of Steel was in development, with Cavill set to reprise the role. In September 2016 Cavill's manager, Dany Garcia, confirmed that the movie is actively being made. In November, Amy Adams stated that work had begun on the screenplay. In September 2017, Matthew Vaughn confirmed he is in discussions with the studio to direct the film. By December at the ACE Comic Con, Henry Cavill was quoted saying that the film is still in active development. Later that month Mark Millar stated that Vaughan had discussed working on the as-of-yet untitled film together, though no official Warner Bros. announcement has been released. Millar acknowledged that years ago before the release of Man of Steel, the pair had pitched a trilogy of Superman films to the studio, emphasizing the importance of the titular hero's characterization in a film adaptation.
Additional materials
In order to expand and build the universe the films are set in, some additional material has been released, such as additional scenes or bonus material included in the home releases of the films. The purpose of said material is also to setup and tease the overarching narrative that future installments of the franchise will adhere to. In the case of additional scenes, on March 28, 2016, Warner Brothers released to the public via its YouTube channel, a scene not shown in theaters for Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, titled "Communion", which teased the events that would be depicted in Justice League; the scene was later integrated in the Ultimate Edition home release of the film. Similarly, in the Blu-ray disc home release of Wonder Woman, an epilogue is included in the form of a short titled "Etta's Mission", which details a final incident that transpired after the events of the film. Etta teases the existence of a Mother Box, which is crucial to Justice League.
Although not all the films in the franchise resort to this practice, some of them make use of post-credits scenes to further develop character relationships and establish the plot elements that will influence future installments, such as Suicide Squad and Justice League.
Recurring cast and characters
This table only includes characters that have appeared in multiple DCEU films.
- A dark grey cell indicates the character was not in the film, or that the character's presence in the film has not yet been announced.
- An A indicates an appearance through archival footage or stills.
- A C indicates a cameo appearance.
- An E indicates an appearance not included in the theatrical cut of the film.
- A P indicates a new appearance in onscreen photographs only.
- A S indicates the character appears through use of special effects only.
- A U indicates an uncredited appearance.
- A Y indicates an appearance by an actor portraying a younger version of a pre-existing character.
Music
Film soundtrack
Singles
Other media
Novels
Comics
Video games
Reception
Box office performance
Critical response
See also
- DC Extended Universe - Wikipedia book
- List of films based on DC Comics
- List of television series based on DC Comics
- DC animated universe
- DC Universe Animated Original Movies
- Arrowverse, a formal name to describe CW's interconnected DC-related TV shows
- Marvel Cinematic Universe
References
External links
- DC Films on Facebook
- DC Extended Universe Wiki
Source of article : Wikipedia
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