James Gunn's Muddled Message: Resetting the DC Universe or Just a Reboot?
Recent statements from James Gunn regarding the resetting of the DC Universe have raised eyebrows and sparked intense debate among fans and critics alike. Gunn, now the Chief Representative for Warner Bros. DC, seems to be walking a fine line between accurately representing the new creative direction of the shared universe and catering to the company's financial and promotional interests.
Resetting the DC Universe
James Gunn's assertion that the universe is being reset to begin anew may have been misleading at best. Gunn's recent comments suggest that while he aims to introduce significant changes, the integration of older material is done with reluctance and hesitation. This new direction, centered around 'Creature Commandos' and 'Superman Legacy,' is intended to draw attention to these upcoming projects.
Blue Beetle and Shazam in the New Canon
Despite Gunn's claims, the inclusion of 'Blue Beetle' and 'Shazam' in the new canonical storyline is portrayed as a dismissive move. He stated that these films 'don't contradict' and are 'not in the way in their own corner, so sure why not.' This attitude reflects a lack of commitment to these films within the new universe. If these movies perform well, they could see sequels and a deeper integration into the Gunn DCEU, but if they fail, Warner Bros. and DC are likely to distance themselves from these projects.
The Flash and the Disillusionment
The inclusion of the Flash in this new timeline is particularly contentious. Gunn's statement that the Flash movie is part of the reset universe is met with skepticism by many. Unless George Clooney, who played Batman in the 'Batman: Brave and Bold' TV series, is indeed featured in Gunn's upcoming darker Batman movie and involves Damian Wayne, the connections remain unclear.
The Flash movie, based on the 'Flashpoint' storyline from DC Comics, has a complex origin. In the comics, Flashpoint depicts Barry Allen waking up to a new timeline where his mother is alive, his father is never jailed, and he never gained his powers as The Flash. The counterbalance to this timeline is an oncoming conflict. The interaction with the Flashpoint timeline's Batman, Thomas Wayne, allows Barry to regain his powers and undo the changes, effectively merging the Vertigo and Wildstorm imprints into DC’s main universe.
James Gunn's Ambiguity
The implications of the Flash in the new Gunn DCEU are significant. Gunn's claim that the Flash movie is part of a reset universe is dubious at best. The ending that shows Clooney could be interpreted as a connection to the Schumacher Batman universe, but it is not a clear indication of Gunn's new brand of the DC universe unless further steps are taken.
James Gunn's words are often seen as a way to promote his new projects. However, his reluctance to fully commit to older DC materials raises questions about the integrity of the new storyline. Gunn's apparent lack of authenticity in integrating these films could undermine the trust of fans, leading to a loss of interest in the new DCEU.
Conclusion
The future of the DC Universe, as guided by James Gunn, is still uncertain. While fans eagerly await the new entries in the universes, the ambiguity surrounding older films and characters creates a sense of disillusionment. Gunn’s job is to sell his new projects, but his willingness to include existing material in a dismissive manner is becoming increasingly contentious.
As the industry continues to evolve, the authenticity of Gunn's new direction will be crucial. The integration of films like 'Blue Beetle' and 'Shazam' into the new canon will define the future of the DC Universe, and the success or failure of these projects could significantly impact the direction of the new Gunn DCEU.