As the New DCU Approaches, James Gunn Playfully Critiques Marvel: “I Prefer Adventure Over Homework”

Even the most die-hard Marvel enthusiasts would admit that keeping up with all the content can sometimes feel like a chore. James Gunn is aiming to avoid that feeling with the revamped DC Universe.

After a rocky few years for DC, marked by a series of films that struggled to form a cohesive cinematic universe, next week marks a turning point with the launch of “Creature Commandos.” This project is the first release under the joint guidance of James Gunn at DC Studios and serves as the opening chapter for the new DCU. Despite this fresh start, many questions from the older DCU linger. In an interview with Collider before “Creature Commandos” premieres, Gunn addressed these queries and shared his thoughts on the necessity of watching every piece of a cinematic universe’s puzzle.

When Gunn was asked if “The Suicide Squad” and “Peacemaker” will integrate into the new DCU, considering that “Peacemaker” Season 2 is on the way, he explained, “Peacemaker’s inclusion is fairly straightforward. The first season of Peacemaker remains canon, except for that Justice League appearance at the end—you’ll see more on that in Season 2. As for ‘The Suicide Squad,’ the connection is a bit more relaxed.”

Gunn elaborated, “We know Rick Flag Sr. harbors anger because Peacemaker killed his son, which we acknowledge. That event exists in canon due to its mention in ‘Creature Commandos,’ not just because it was part of ‘The Suicide Squad.'”

He further expressed his thoughts on DC’s allure, commenting to Collider, “What I find captivating about DC is the world-building, more so than just the narrative crafting. I don’t see the DCU as merely a sequence of films and TV shows linked by a single antagonist. It shouldn’t feel like homework where you need to watch everything. Instead, it offers a connected universe under one umbrella—the DCU—where every series has its unique flair, shaped by artists, directors, and designers involved.”

Gunn’s history with Marvel is well-known, notably directing all three “Guardians of the Galaxy” films, with the third tying into “Avengers: Endgame.” His outlook on DC could be seen as a gentle jab at Marvel’s sometimes overwhelming viewing requirements.

Under Gunn’s stewardship, DC Studios promises a diverse array of projects. The DCU will feature movies focusing on iconic characters like Superman, Batman, Supergirl, and the Teen Titans, alongside series such as “Creature Commandos,” “Peacemaker,” “Lanterns,” and “Booster Gold.” There’s also the intriguing “Elseworlds” slate, including “The Batman 2” and an ambitious CGI/stop-motion/live-action Robins project. Clearly, Gunn is embracing variety, ensuring there’s something for everyone.