Why the DCU Is Nothing Like the MCU (According to James Gunn)

James Gunn doesn’t think the new DC Universe is anything like the MCU.

In a recent conversation with Interview magazine, Gunn discussed how the DC Universe (DCU) differs from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). He highlighted that the DCU will prioritize telling distinct stories from a larger shared cinematic universe, as opposed to focusing solely on the overall universe’s narrative like the MCU. This and other factors make these two comic book movie and media franchises unique.

He explained, “Others might compare the DCU to the MCU, but for me, it feels more akin to the world of ‘Game of Thrones’ or ‘Star Wars.’ Instead of mimicking, we are constructing a comprehensive universe and then selecting specific tales to narrate from that cosmos.

Moreover, the filmmaker and head of DC Studios clarified that unlike the Marvel Cinematic Universe which frequently uses real-life settings, the DC Universe is a distinct, self-contained world with its own special ambiance.

In this fictional universe we refer to as DCU, instead of cities like New York or Los Angeles, we have Metropolis, Evergreen, and Coast City. This world has a distinct layout compared to ours. For over 300 years, beings with extraordinary abilities, which we call Metahumans, have been an integral part of our lives. As he explained, these superheroes have been shaping the course of history in this universe for centuries.

Metahumans, governments, and corporations. Among these, corporations play an essential role. Notable ones include Luthor Corp, Lord Tech, Stagg Industries, and Wayne Enterprises – the four major companies competing for a different form of control. It’s important to note that while these corporations aren’t inherently evil, they do operate without any moral compass.

Gunn stated that what drew him to DC was their extensive world-building, mentioning that he finds inspiration from George R.R. Martin, the author of “Game of Thrones”. He expressed admiration for Martin, stating, “He is one of my favorite authors I look up to, and I am a big fan of his work.

Instead of the Marvel Cinematic Universe dividing its narrative into distinct movie phases, the DC Universe plans to unfold its larger story in separate chapters, with the initial chapter titled “Chapter One: Gods and Monsters.

In 2024, the DC Universe debuted with the animated series “Creature Commandos.” The following year, in 2025, James Gunn’s movie “Superman” signified the start of the DC Universe’s fresh cinematic saga.

The Marvel movie universe was launched back in 2008 with the release of Iron Man, and as of now, it’s progressed into its sixth phase, starting with the debut of The Fantastic Four: First Steps in the year 2025.

The Best Performances in DC Movies

12. Jason Momoa, Aquaman (2018)

Oh, man! I never thought Jason Momoa would be the perfect pick to play Aquaman, a character usually depicted in comics as a majestic ruler of the seas. But hey, sometimes unexpected choices can turn out to be brilliant ones. Momoa, along with director James Wan (and let’s not forget Zack Snyder), brought a unique twist to the Aquaman character: A sort of roguish sea pirate warrior, one who’d risk everything to save marine life from oil spills and then raise a glass or two of Jägermeister at the whale-rescue parties. In the DC Extended Universe, where things were getting quite grim, Momoa injected some much-needed humor alongside his imposing physique. Now it’s tough to envision Aquaman without him shouting triumphantly as he charges into battle!

11. Jack Dylan Grazer, Shazam! (2019)

The success of Shazam!’s body-swapping magic can be attributed to Jack Dylan Grazer’s exceptional performance as Freddy Freeman, Billy Batson’s foster brother. He plays a crucial role in convincing the audience that Billy transforms into Shazam!, interacting with both Asher Angel and Zachary Levi, and portraying them as one character. As a superhero fanatic among the duo, Freddy also guides Billy in mastering his new powers in an engaging sequence.

In the movie’s climax, when Freddy and their foster family gain superpowers, it brings a delightful twist. However, this development might feel slightly disappointing as it leads to a reduced screen time for Grazer throughout the rest of the film.

10. John Cena, The Suicide Squad (2021)

As a die-hard movie enthusiast, let me share some thoughts on the DCEU’s transformation following the DC equivalent of the “Crisis on Infinite Earths.” James Gunn, our new DC Universe architect, breathed life into Peacemaker in “The Suicide Squad,” a character who could have easily been overshadowed by more renowned figures. Instead, he chose to keep and further develop this lesser-known antihero.

In the hands of Dwayne Johnson (a few actors in history could match), Peacemaker was transformed from an obscure DC character into a beloved figure, stealing every scene he appeared in. His memorable delivery of lines like “I cherish peace with all my heart. And I don’t care how many men, women, and children I need to kill to get it,” showcased his unique charm and appeal. Without Johnson, there would be no Peacemaker, or the subsequent spin-off series on HBO Max.

9. Will Arnett, The LEGO Batman Movie (2017)

In the mid-2000s, portrayals of Batman had become increasingly dark and grim, leaving little room for anything else. This paved the way for a return to the lighthearted satire reminiscent of the old Adam West Batman series. The LEGO Batman Movie, featuring Will Arnett as the grumpy yet macho LEGO version of Batman, echoes this satirical energy. Initially, LEGO Batman believes his arch-nemesis is the Joker, but he eventually learns that his real foe is his inability to open up to others. The movie, a clever mix of parody and tribute to the peculiar world of Batman, thrives on Arnett’s gravelly, comedic, and occasionally heartfelt portrayal of the titular character.

8. Viola Davis, Suicide Squad (2016)

The first “Suicide Squad” film had its flaws. The editing was choppy, the dialogue was doubtful, and the plot was strange – these were some of its major problems. There aren’t many good aspects to balance out the bad, but Viola Davis’ strong portrayal of DC Comics character Amanda Waller stood out. Surrounded by assassins, psychopaths, mercenaries, talking crocodile men, and men with lethal boomerangs, she was the most intimidating person in every scene. Of course, Gunn brought her back for “The Suicide Squad”. Would you dare to tell her she’s no longer needed?

7. Gal Gadot, Wonder Woman (2017)

The DC Extended Universe is known for its epic concepts and brooding superheroes, and rightfully so. However, amidst the numerous display of muscular physiques and repeated cries of “Martha!”, there stood Gal Gadot’s portrayal of Wonder Woman, a truly motivating and badass reinterpretation of the character. (The lasso! The armored bracers! The impressive fighting skills! Overpowering a tank single-handedly!) Regrettably, Patty Jenkins’ “Wonder Woman” series didn’t develop as anticipated; the sequel was a significant letdown, and sadly, a third film never came to fruition. But that first movie, centered around Gadot’s authentic and compassionate Diana, remains a shining moment for DC.

6. Nicholas Hoult, Superman (2025)

In different words:

Before, there have been great Lex Luthors portrayed on the big screen, like Gene Hackman who was loved despite not shaving his head for the role. However, I’m unsure if any actor perfectly encapsulated Superman’s arch-nemesis as Nicholas Hoult does in James Gunn’s “Superman.” He is the ideal villain of today: A self-centered, thin-skinned tech mogul with the potential to transform the world positively – if he wasn’t obsessed with gaining the total adoration of the public. Hoult manages to reveal Lex’s peculiarities and complexities without ever seeking our approval or eliciting sympathy. An exceptional hero like David Corenswet’s Superman requires an equally wicked adversary, and Hoult delivered exactly that as his Luthor.

5. Michelle Pfeiffer, Batman Returns (1992)

In numerous ways, superhero films often fail to match the level of awesome, edgy, and seductive charm that Michelle Pfeiffer brought to her portrayal of Catwoman in “Batman Returns.” Transforming from a timid secretary to a cunning thief, Pfeiffer left an indelible impression with her black leather costume, engaging flirtation with Michael Keaton, and acrobatic feats across Gotham City. The fact that Pfeiffer’s Catwoman didn’t receive her own movie while Halle Berry’s did is considered a significant misfortune in the annals of Hollywood filmmaking.

4. Kevin Conroy, Batman: Mask of the Phantasm (1993)

Among all the outstanding actors who have played Batman, from Michael Keaton to Christian Bale and Robert Pattinson, it is Kevin Conroy who truly stood out. He not only mastered both the persona of Batman and Bruce Wayne but also brought to life Batman’s clever humor and his intense anger. Unfortunately, Conroy passed away, but he will always be remembered for voicing the Dark Knight for the first time in “Batman: The Animated Series,” and later on, lending his voice to the big screen in the 1993 film “Mask of the Phantasm.” This movie further highlighted Bruce Wayne’s tragic backstory, giving Conroy an opportunity to add even more emotional depth to his portrayal.

3. Jack Nicholson, Batman (1989)

In the movie “Batman” from 1989, Jack Nicholson’s portrayal of the Joker left an indelible mark. As he looked over a Gotham City newspaper announcing Batman’s emergence, he taunted, “They’re in for a surprise when they see me.” His prediction was spot on – there had been good superhero movies and notable villains before, like Cesar Romero’s portrayal of the Joker in the 60s Batman series. However, no character ever combined such chilling insanity and captivating charm as Nicholson’s Joker did. His strutting, dancing, and pulling out oversized guns from his trousers revolutionized the concept of comic book villains forever.

2. Christopher Reeve, Superman (1978)

In the year 1978, it wasn’t just Christopher Reeve who became a movie star due to Superman, but rather, Superman gained even more stardom thanks to Christopher Reeve. The tagline for that film, “You will believe a man can fly,” was legendary. However, no matter how advanced the special effects of 1978 were, they could only carry the audience so far; it was Christopher Reeve who made them truly believe in Superman’s physical prowess, elegance, and fundamental goodness.

1. Heath Ledger, The Dark Knight (2008)

In the film “The Dark Knight”, Heath Ledger’s portrayal of the Joker surpassed Jack Nicholson’s depiction in its originality, making any comparisons between the two redundant. Unlike previous interpretations, Ledger’s Joker arrives in Gotham City without a clear origin, background, or motivation. Instead, he embodies anarchy personified. The mystery surrounding his crimes adds to their terror and creates a more formidable adversary for Christian Bale’s Batman. In many ways, we got the Joker we needed, yet perhaps not the one we truly deserved.

2025-08-20 21:57