Before Launching the New DCU, James Gunn Critiques Marvel: “I Prefer Not Having to Do Homework to Understand Everything”

Even the most devoted Marvel enthusiasts might admit that keeping up with so much content can feel overwhelming, akin to tackling homework. Enter James Gunn, who aims to shift this narrative with the fresh direction of the DC Universe.

After several tumultuous years at DC where films struggled to weave into a cohesive universe, we’re finally approaching the launch of “Creature Commandos.” Set to debut next week, this project marks the beginning of Gunn’s role at the helm of DC Studios and ushers in the new DCU era. However, many fans are curious about the remnants of the previous DCU. In a recent interview with Collider, conducted just before “Creature Commandos” hits the screens, Gunn shed light on what will remain canon and shared his perspective on the notion of having to consume all content in a cinematic universe.

When quizzed about whether “The Suicide Squad” and “Peacemaker” will fit into the new DCU, especially given the upcoming release of “Peacemaker” Season 2, Gunn clarified, “Peacemaker is relatively straightforward. Season 1 is largely canon, apart from the Justice League’s appearance at the end, which will be addressed in Season 2. ‘Suicide Squad’ is a bit more flexible, though.”

He elaborated further, saying, “Rick Flag Sr.’s anger over his son’s death at the hands of Peacemaker confirms past events that serve as reference points. While this incident is canon due to its mention in ‘Creature Commandos,’ it doesn’t necessarily tie back to ‘Suicide Squad’.”

Gunn also shared his admiration for DC, revealing to Collider, “The thrill for me lies in the world-building, not just the storyline. I don’t envision the DCU as a saga revolving around a single villain across multiple platforms. As a viewer, I don’t want to feel compelled to consume every piece just to keep up. Instead, it’s a unified universe centered around the DCU, with the flavor and style varying based on the creators involved.”

Having directed the entire “Guardians of the Galaxy” trilogy for Marvel, with the last one directly spinning off from “Avengers: Endgame,” Gunn’s comments carry a subtle jab at Marvel’s exhaustive viewing requirements—a critique many would find fair given the complexity of their storytelling web.

Under Gunn’s guidance, DC Studios is positioned to offer a diverse portfolio. The DCU will feature iconic characters like Superman, Batman, and Supergirl, as well as the Teen Titans. Exciting new series include “Creature Commandos,” “Peacemaker,” “Lanterns,” and “Booster Gold.” Then there’s the intriguing Elseworlds slate, which boasts projects like “The Batman 2” and an unusual CGI/stop-motion/live-action “Robins” film. It’s clear that Gunn is committed to injecting variety into the DCU’s cinematic and televised landscapes.