James Gunn Addresses DCU’s Future After Netflix-Warner Bros. Merger
James Gunn and Peter Safran, the creative leads at DC Studios, weigh in on the future of blockbuster movies and streaming after Netflix’s acquisition of Warner Bros. They highlight the value of theatrical releases and share what’s next for DC’s expanding universe.
Hollywood is buzzing after Netflix ’s recent acquisition of Warner Bros, sparking debates across the industry about what this means for the future of blockbuster movies. With Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos voicing his preference for shorter exclusive theatrical windows, many are questioning how this shift will impact the release strategies for major films. Amid the speculation, James Gunn and Peter Safran, the creative heads steering DC Studios, have stepped forward to share their perspective on the evolving landscape.
DC Studios’ Vision for Theatrical and Streaming Releases
In a recent interview, Gunn emphasized the unique value of seeing big-budget films on the big screen.
The communal, theatrical experience is something that is incredibly important and remarkably well suited to our big spectacle films.
This commitment to theaters comes as the DC universe is just beginning to take shape, with only a handful of projects like Superman, Peacemaker, and Creature Commandos released so far.
Looking ahead, DC Studios plans to expand its universe with a mix of theatrical and streaming content. Supergirl is set to hit theaters in 2026, while the Lanterns series will debut on HBO Max. According to Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav, this approach allows the DC universe to reach audiences everywhere.
The DC universe is big enough and strong enough that it should be available on all platforms. There are some stories that are important to be told in theaters around the world, and some stories that are important to be told as series.
Balancing Big Screen Spectacle and Streaming Expansion
Gunn and Safran remain confident in their creative direction, with Safran highlighting Gunn’s vision as the driving force behind DC’s new era.
What makes us irreplaceable is truly the mind of James Gunn. He’s been the architect of this grand vision.
While Netflix’s Sarandos has suggested exploring DC’s intellectual property beyond just blockbuster films, pointing to successful TV adaptations like Penguin, the DC Studios team appears focused on maintaining a strong presence in both theaters and streaming platforms.
For now, fans are left to anticipate how these changes will play out. The hope is that upcoming DCU films will enjoy a meaningful run in theaters before making their way to streaming, giving audiences the chance to experience these stories as they were meant to be seen.
What’s Next for the DC Universe
As the dust settles from the Netflix-Warner Bros. deal, all eyes are on the next wave of DC projects. With a slate of movies and shows in development, the question remains which titles will eventually land on Netflix’s platform. Until then, the future of DC’s cinematic and streaming adventures promises to be as dynamic as the heroes themselves.