As Superman readies to kick off the DC Universe (following the animated introduction of Creature Commandos on Max), the range of DC Comics characters that could appear in this series is immense. For quite some time, it seems that live-action DC Comics films and TV shows have predominantly revolved around characters linked to the Superman and Batman legends. However, considering James Gunn‘s past work with the least known comic book characters in Guardians of the Galaxy and The Suicide Squad, this pattern shouldn’t hold true for the future of the DC Universe.
By golly, it’s impressive that Superman, all by himself, will acquaint audiences with characters like Metamorpho and The Engineer, who are far less recognized in the DC Comics world compared to heavyweights such as Superman or Wonder Woman. As the DC Universe forges ahead, James Gunn should avoid any tomfoolery and ensure that a crucial DC Comics mainstay receives the cinematic recognition it truly deserves.
Give Detective Chimp His Roses
Detective Chimp emerged in the 1950s during a more somber time for DC Comics. By the ’80s, this character was brought back to life and started interacting with the broader DC universe and iconic figures such as Martian Manhunter and Green Lantern. As his name suggests, Detective Chimp is a crime-solving primate, typically seen with a magnifying glass and a stylish cap on him. Throughout the years, he’s had different backstories to explain his intelligence, but essentially, he’s just an exceptionally smart chimpanzee who enjoys solving mysteries. Unlike Comet the Super-Horse or one version of Lockjaw from Marvel, he isn’t a human trapped within an animal’s body.
Detective Chimp first appeared in the 1950s during DC Comics’ darker period. In the ’80s, the character returned and began mixing with the main DC universe and popular figures such as Martian Manhunter and Green Lantern. As his name implies, Detective Chimp is a chimp who solves crimes, often carrying around a magnifying glass and a cap. Over time, he’s had various origin stories to explain his insightfulness, but essentially, he’s just an intelligent chimpanzee with a knack for crime-solving. Unlike Comet the Super-Horse or one version of Marvel’s Lockjaw, he isn’t a human in an animal body.
It’s clear that Detective Chimp has garnered a significant following among both fans and creators in the DC Comics universe. This popularity has led to his inclusion in diverse super-teams such as Justice League Dark and Legion of Super-Pets over time. Since the late 2000s, he’s also found a place in various animated series like Batman: The Brave and the Bold and Teen Titans Go!, and even two LEGO video games. Now, the appeal of Detective Chimp has extended beyond comic books.
Introducing a simian detective character into the DC Universe’s cinematic realm seems quite fitting, given that animal characters like Krypto in Superman and Weasel from Creature Commandos are already part of the Gunn and Safran franchise. The addition of a primate detective wouldn’t appear unusual. Moreover, the current popularity of mystery and investigation narratives, as seen in Knives Out and Poker Face, provides an excellent opportunity for Detective Chimp to capitalize on this trend. Lastly, but perhaps most significantly, Detective Chimp would represent a logical progression of Gunn’s affinity for comic book movies.
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Gunn Has Always Loved Comic Book Animals
In terms of progression, it seems Detective Chimp’s role in the DC Universe, specifically as a solo movie lead, follows suit after James Gunn has successfully directed films featuring anthropomorphic characters such as Rocket Raccoon, Lylla, and King Shark. While many directors shy away from stories involving talking animals due to them appearing “unconventional,” Gunn instead finds the human qualities and emotions within these creatures, making characters like a talking walrus or an innocent shark resonate deeply with audiences.
James Gunn isn’t only dedicated to bringing these characters to life on screen, he also aims to elevate them beyond mere jokes. This would be a remarkable gift when dealing with Detective Chimp, a character who carries some heavy themes in many of his storylines, especially those found in more contemporary comics. Issues like alcoholism and social exclusion weave themselves into his narratives, aspects that other directors might overlook if they barely gave the unconventional character a second thought. However, Gunn recognizes the potential in this DC Comics icon to not just appear on screen, but take center stage in a movie of his own.
After 70 years since his first appearance in comic books, Detective Chimp remains intriguing to many beyond being a mere novelty character. He’s a truly engaging figure who delves into complex mystery plots that keep readers hooked. This material could be ideal for a movie, especially within the DC Universe, as it aims to demonstrate that any kind of film can fit within this franchise. Given his ability to transform eccentric animal comic characters into beloved figures, James Gunn might just be the ideal director to help Detective Chimp transition into the movie star he was meant to be.
Superman hits theaters on July 11.
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2025-06-22 00:09