In about a decade, the copyrights for Superman, Batman, and other DC characters will expire, allowing artists and rival studios to create their own versions without permission. DC has been preparing for this by updating the characters and trademarking certain terms and symbols. Experts anticipate a flood of unauthorized comics and movies featuring these characters, but DC's efforts to maintain quality control and trademarks may limit what subsequent creators can do. Despite the potential for a surge in off-brand superhero content, the impact of the copyright expiration remains to be seen.
As Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom hits theaters, fans are reflecting on the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) and its potential. The DCEU, which began with Man of Steel in 2013, has undergone leadership changes and a shift in direction. Some fans are nostalgic and express love for the universe despite its flaws, while others are glad to see it end. The DCEU consists of 15 films, including appearances from iconic characters like Wonder Woman and Superman. Some viewers hope to see certain actors and characters return in the future. The blame for the downfall of the DCEU is debated, with some pointing to bad movies and others blaming the firing of Zack Snyder. With new leadership, fans are curious to see what the future holds for the DC Universe.
Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, the sequel to 2018's Aquaman, has one post-credits scene. The movie, which is expected to receive a negative response from critics, features returning cast members Jason Momoa, Patrick Wilson, Amber Heard, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, and Nicole Kidman. The plot involves Aquaman teaming up with his imprisoned brother Orm to defeat Black Manta and protect their kingdom from destruction. The film is set to release on December 22.
James Gunn's reboot of the DC Extended Universe will not feature any of the stars from Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice or Justice League, including Ben Affleck, Henry Cavill, Gal Gadot, Ezra Miller, or Jason Momoa. The new DC Universe will see David Corenswet taking over as Superman and Rachel Brosnihan as Lois Lane in Gunn's 2025 film Superman: Legacy. Momoa is reportedly in talks to play Lobo in either Superman: Legacy or a standalone film. The future of Gadot's Wonder Woman is uncertain. Viola Davis will continue as Amanda Waller in the upcoming Waller series, and John Cena will return as Peacemaker. Gunn and Safran are aiming to revamp DC's film legacy.
DC's upcoming film Blue Beetle has received positive reviews on Rotten Tomatoes, currently holding an 82% "Fresh" approval rating based on 77 professional reviews. Critics praise Xolo Maridueña's performance in the title role and describe the movie as a refreshing, family-focused superhero film with humor and heart. Blue Beetle explores the joys and difficulties of having a large family while also delving into darker themes. The film opens in theaters on August 18.
The Flash's ending was kept a secret by Warner Bros. and DC, with the scene not being shown during test screenings and only debuting at press screenings and the movie's premiere. The ending was changed from the original plan, which saw Michael Keaton's Batman and Sasha Calle's Supergirl appear alive and well, to include Henry Cavill's Superman and Gal Gadot's Wonder Woman. The final scene features George Clooney reprising his role as Bruce Wayne, a surprise that was kept under wraps.
The Flash movie starring Ezra Miller, Michael Keaton, Sasha Calle, and Ben Affleck is now exclusively available in theaters. However, the CW series starring Grant Gustin has nine seasons available for streaming. The Flash character has also appeared in four DCEU films and two TV appearances. The movie will be available to stream on HBO Max later this year. New episodes of The Flash series premiere on Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET on The CW, and the first eight seasons are available to stream on Netflix.
"The Flash" delivers enjoyable entertainment with Ezra Miller's portrayal of Barry Allen as the film's chief asset, bringing humor, heart, and vulnerability to the Fastest Man Alive. The movie pays homage to the DC Extended Universe's nostalgic fan service, including Michael Keaton's return as Bruce Wayne/Batman. While the film falls short of the hype, it's an above-average entry in the DC Extended Universe.
Michael Shannon agreed to reprise his role as General Zod in The Flash on the condition that director Zack Snyder gave his blessing, following Shannon's displeasure with what happened on Justice League. In the upcoming DC movie, Barry Allen will travel through the multiverse and encounter a different version of Zod. The Flash will also reset continuity and pave the way for the new DC Universe franchise.
Warner Bros. unveiled a new trailer for The Flash at CinemaCon, featuring Michael Keaton's Batman and plenty of action, emotional beats, and hints about how it might upend the entire DC Extended Universe. The film follows Barry (Ezra Miller) as he uses his powers to travel back in time and change the past, inadvertently altering the future and becoming trapped in a reality in which General Zod has returned. The Flash hits theaters on June 16, 2023.
The Flash, the upcoming standalone superhero movie from the DC Extended Universe, received high praise from CinemaCon attendees, with some calling it one of the greatest superhero movies ever made. The film's star, Ezra Miller, has faced controversy in recent years, but the positive reception of The Flash has eased concerns about the movie's potential commercial success. Despite this, a competing studio executive gave backhanded compliments to the film, saying that audiences want nostalgia and feel-good moments, and execution is less important.
The new trailer for The Flash features time travel, a lot of Batman (including Michael Keaton's version), and a plot that involves Barry Allen trying to save the world by coaxing a retired Batman out of retirement and rescuing an imprisoned Kryptonian. The movie aims to wrap up the DC Extended Universe and set the stage for James Gunn's new era. The Flash will be in cinemas from 15 June.
The cast of Shazam! Fury of the Gods did not actually film with Gal Gadot for her cameo appearance in the film's third act, according to actress Grace Caroline Curry. Despite the logistical challenges, the scene featuring Gadot's Wonder Woman was exciting for fans and Curry was thrilled to have the opportunity to work with the character's suit on set. The future of the DC Extended Universe remains uncertain, but fans can currently enjoy Shazam! Fury of the Gods in theaters.
Ben Affleck has revealed that the troubled production of DC's Justice League led to his decision to step away from the franchise for good. Affleck, who played Batman in the film, described the experience as the "worst" of his career and said it contributed to his ongoing issues with alcohol. He also clarified that he was originally slated to direct a standalone Batman feature but is no longer interested in participating in the DC Extended Universe.
Shazam! Fury of the Gods, the 12th installment in the DC Extended Universe, is expected to open with $35 million-plus in North America, compared to the $53.5 million domestic debut of Shazam! in 2019. Families, who played a key role in the first movie's performance, remain a challenged moviegoing demo in the pandemic era. The film features the Daughters of Atlas as villains and introduces new characters played by Helen Mirren, Lucy Liu, and Rachel Zegler. The future of DC characters and actors introduced before the takeover of James Gunn and Peter Safran remains uncertain.
