James Gunn Stands by Theaters as Netflix Hints at a Different Path for the DCU
Netflix’s massive acquisition of Warner Bros. has the entertainment world spinning, and DC fans are understandably watching the situation with raised eyebrows.
With Netflix chief Ted Sarandos openly dismissing the idea of long theatrical windows, many wondered what this might mean for the future of DC Studios and the growing DCU. Thankfully, James Gunn and Peter Safran have stepped in to steady the ship.
Gunn spoke with Bloomberg about the disruption and made it clear that the big screen is still a priority for DC Studios. He explained that “the communal, theatrical experience is something that is incredibly important and remarkably well suited to our big spectacle films.”
It is a reassuring sentiment, especially for a universe that is still taking shape, but that’s Gunn’s opinion. Netflix doesn’t feel the same way. So far, the DCU has launched Superman, Peacemaker, and Creature Commandos and the next wave is gearing up as Supergirl heads to theaters in 2026 while Lanterns lands on HBO Max.
Warner Bros Discovery head David Zaslav sees this mix of theatrical and streaming storytelling as the right creative balance, saying: “The DC universe is big enough and strong enough that it should be available on all platforms. There are some stories that are important to be told in theaters around the world, and some stories that are important to be told as series.”
Safran echoed confidence in where things stand and emphasized that the strength of the DCU comes from Gunn’s creative leadership. “What makes us irreplaceable is truly the mind of James Gunn. He’s been the architect of this grand vision.”
Again, these are all the opinions of people who have no real clue what Netflix’s actual plans are once they take over.
Sarandos has suggested the future of these iconic properties might expand in different directions. During a December 5 investment call he said, “You should think about ways that you can explore all these IP universes beyond that of just making tentpole movies.
“Examples would be some of the earlier moves from the DC universe, for things like Penguin has turned into great television.”
He also talk about how the theatrical run of a film will evolve, which basically means shorter theater runs so they can slap it on streaming as quickly as possible.
For now, fans can only watch and wait as the new corporate landscape settles. The hope is that when DC’s theatrical projects hit the big screen, they get the space to thrive before making their eventual leap to streaming.
Until then, the DCU continues to march forward with a lineup of movies and shows that could soon be carrying a bright red N next to that familiar shield.