10 DCAU Stories That James Gunn's DC Universe Needs To Steal
The DC Animated Universe has delivered some incredibly compelling narratives that James Gunn would be wise to adapt into his DCU reboot. The DC Animated Universe (DCAU) comprises the animated arm of the DCU timeline, usually offering interconnected adventures within a shared universe. With James Gunn and Peter Safran crafting the new DC Universe, there’s a treasure trove of DCAU stories that could elevate their cinematic world.
James Gunn’s DCU is positioned as a fresh start, but it will still honor classic DC stories. The new first saga, Chapter One: Gods and Monsters, suggests a willingness to experiment with darker and more mature narratives. While the DCU isn’t strictly adapting previous continuities, it can take inspiration from the best DC has to offer. If Gunn wants to create a cinematic universe that stands the test of time, mining these stories for inspiration would be a smart move. The following arcs are ripe for adaptation.
10 Bruce Wayne Mentors A Younger Batman Batman Beyond Close Batman Beyond revolutionized the Batman mythos by introducing Terry McGinnis, a rebellious teen who becomes Gotham’s new Dark Knight under an aged Bruce Wayne’s guidance. The series explored themes of legacy, responsibility, and identity in a cyberpunk Gotham filled with futuristic threats. This storyline would be a perfect addition to the DCU, allowing an older Bruce Wayne – perhaps played by Michael Keaton or another veteran actor – to train his successor.
The emotional depth of Bruce grappling with his past failures while guiding a new Batman would provide a fresh take on the hero. Terry McGinnis’ story also allows for a younger, more contemporary Batman who appeals to modern audiences while keeping Bruce’s legacy intact. Gunn’s DCU could use Batman Beyond as a bold departure from traditional Batman movies, introducing a world where Gotham’s protector is no longer the man behind the cowl.
9 Batman Stages A Justice League Walk-Out Young Justice: Outsiders Close One of Batman’s most shocking leadership moves came in Young Justice: Outsiders, where he orchestrated a mass resignation from the Justice League to combat corruption and bureaucratic inefficiency. This storyline brilliantly showcased Batman’s strategic mind and his willingness to make tough, controversial choices. In a live-action DCU, this could serve as a powerful statement about heroism versus government control, similar to Captain America: Civil War.
James Gunn’s DCU is positioned as a fresh start, but it will still honor classic DC stories. The new first saga, Chapter One: Gods and Monsters, suggests a willingness to experiment with darker and more mature narratives. While the DCU isn’t strictly adapting previous continuities, it can take inspiration from the best DC has to offer. If Gunn wants to create a cinematic universe that stands the test of time, mining these stories for inspiration would be a smart move. The following arcs are ripe for adaptation.
10 Bruce Wayne Mentors A Younger Batman Batman Beyond Close Batman Beyond revolutionized the Batman mythos by introducing Terry McGinnis, a rebellious teen who becomes Gotham’s new Dark Knight under an aged Bruce Wayne’s guidance. The series explored themes of legacy, responsibility, and identity in a cyberpunk Gotham filled with futuristic threats. This storyline would be a perfect addition to the DCU, allowing an older Bruce Wayne – perhaps played by Michael Keaton or another veteran actor – to train his successor.
The emotional depth of Bruce grappling with his past failures while guiding a new Batman would provide a fresh take on the hero. Terry McGinnis’ story also allows for a younger, more contemporary Batman who appeals to modern audiences while keeping Bruce’s legacy intact. Gunn’s DCU could use Batman Beyond as a bold departure from traditional Batman movies, introducing a world where Gotham’s protector is no longer the man behind the cowl.
9 Batman Stages A Justice League Walk-Out Young Justice: Outsiders Close One of Batman’s most shocking leadership moves came in Young Justice: Outsiders, where he orchestrated a mass resignation from the Justice League to combat corruption and bureaucratic inefficiency. This storyline brilliantly showcased Batman’s strategic mind and his willingness to make tough, controversial choices. In a live-action DCU, this could serve as a powerful statement about heroism versus government control, similar to Captain America: Civil War.
