Upcoming DC Movies and TV Shows: The DC cinematic universe is undergoing a significant transformation in 2024 and beyond. With the conclusion of Zack Snyder's era and the commencement of James Gunn's reboot with "Superman: Legacy" in 2025, DC Studios is gearing up for a fresh start. This article dives into the upcoming DC movies, including "Joker: Folie à Deux" and "The Batman Part II," as well as the TV shows that will shape the future of DC on-screen entertainment.
Following the success of 2019's "Joker," Todd Phillips returns with "Joker: Folie à Deux" on October 4, 2024. This standalone sequel features Joaquin Phoenix reprising his role as Arthur Fleck, alongside new cast members, including Lady Gaga as a potentially sinister version of Harley Quinn. The film is expected to be a musical, exploring a different genre while maintaining the gritty and dark elements of its predecessor.
James Gunn and Peter Safran's new DC Universe kicks off with "Superman: Legacy" on July 11, 2025. David Corenswet takes on the role of Superman, offering a fresh take that focuses on Clark Kent balancing his Kryptonian heritage with his Kansas upbringing. The film introduces a world already populated by superheroes, with Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and a supporting cast featuring Green Lantern, Hawkgirl, Mister Terrific, and Metamorpho.
Continuing Matt Reeves' standalone Batman trilogy, "The Batman Part II" is set to release on October 3, 2025, as a DC Elseworlds project. Robert Pattinson returns as Bruce Wayne, with speculations hinting at an adaptation of DC Comics' "No Man's Land" storyline, where Gotham City becomes a battlefield after a catastrophic earthquake.
Warner Bros. brings back Alan Moore's seminal comic book event with an animated "Watchmen" movie set to release in 2024. The film adapts the original twelve issues, providing a fresh perspective on this iconic storyline.
In the DC Animated Universe, "Justice League: Crisis On Infinite Earths" is set for release in 2024. This feature-length adaptation is based on the landmark 1985 DC comic book crossover, featuring a returning voice cast that includes Jensen Ackles' Batman, Stana Katic's Wonder Woman, and Darren Criss' Superman.
Exploring a new take on the Dark Knight's lore, "Batman Azteca: Choque De Imperios" is an animated movie set in the Aztec Empire. The storyline follows Yohualli Coatl as he takes on Spanish Conquistadors after the murder of his parents. The film, releasing on Max, adds exciting new lore to Batman's expansive universe.
James Gunn announced "The Authority," part of DCU's Chapter 1, titled Gods and Monsters. This unique superhero team, known for extreme methods, is expected to draw inspiration from "The Boys." While no release date is confirmed, the film will connect to the new Superman set to debut in "Superman: Legacy."
Rebooting the character, "The Brave and the Bold" introduces a new actor as Bruce Wayne, separate from previous iterations. The film, based on Grant Morrison's Batman run, includes Damian Wayne, Bruce Wayne's estranged son, as Robin. Release details are yet to be announced.
Announced by James Gunn, "Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow" promises a different take on Supergirl's character. Raised on Krypton, this iteration witnessed traumatic events before arriving on Earth. Casting details are pending, and the project signals a complete reboot of the character.
In a departure from traditional superhero genres, "Swamp Thing" is set to be a horror film exploring the dark origins of the mysterious Swamp Thing. Based on Alan Moore's 1984 storyline, the film, directed and written by James Mangold, connects to the broader DCU while embracing a darker tone.
As DC expands its on-screen universe, numerous TV shows are in development or ongoing across different platforms. These include:
Batwheels (Cartoon Network) - Ongoing
The Penguin (Max) - 2024
Creature Commandos (Max) - 2024
Waller (Max) - 2024
Superman & Lois Season 4 (The CW) - 2024
Suicide Squad ISEKAI (TBC)
Noonan’s (Max) - Harley Quinn spin-off (TBC)
My Adventures with Superman Season 2 (Adult Swim & Max) - TBC
The Sandman Season 2 (Netflix) - TBC
Dead Boy Detectives (Netflix) - TBC
Sweet Tooth Season 3 (Netflix) - TBC
Untitled Arkham Asylum spinoff (Max) - TBC
Untitled Gotham City Police Department spinoff (Max) - TBC
Peacemaker Season 2 (Max) - TBC
Lanterns (Max) - TBC
Paradise Lost (Max) - TBC
Booster Gold (Max) - TBC
Bat-Family (Amazon Prime) - TBC
Untitled Val-Zod Series (Max) - TBC
DC Super Hero High (Max) - TBC
The Night Begins to Shine (Cartoon Network) - Teen Titans Go! Spin-Off - TBC
While the DC cinematic landscape is evolving, several rumored projects may shape its future. These include:
The future of DC on-screen promises a diverse array of storytelling, with a mix of sequels, reboots, and fresh interpretations. From the musical and dark world of "Joker: Folie à Deux" to the animated "Watchmen" adaptation, and the horror-centric "Swamp Thing," DC Studios is pushing boundaries. The TV landscape is equally dynamic, with ongoing and upcoming shows exploring various facets of the DC Universe. While some rumored projects remain in development limbo, the confirmed lineup indicates an exciting era ahead for DC fans. Stay tuned for more updates as the DC cinematic and television universes continue to evolve.
