Before the New DCU Begins, James Gunn Subtly Critiques Marvel: “I Want to Avoid Needing Homework for Every Viewing”

For even the most dedicated Marvel enthusiasts, keeping up with all the content can feel a bit like doing homework. James Gunn aims to sidestep that overwhelming feeling with the introduction of the new DC Universe (DCU).

DC has experienced a tumultuous run over the past few years, with films never fully coming together as a unified universe. However, next week marks the debut of “Creature Commandos,” the very first project to launch under Gunn’s co-leadership of DC Studios. This also sets the stage for the upcoming DCU. While many questions loom from the previous DCU follies, Gunn recently cleared up some confusion in an interview with Collider, particularly around what’s considered canon now, and how he personally feels about the idea of having to consume every piece of content the movie universe puts out.

When questioned on whether “The Suicide Squad” and “Peacemaker” will be canon in the new DCU, particularly since “Peacemaker” season 2 is on the horizon, Gunn clarified, “Peacemaker is straightforward. Season 1 is canon, except for the appearance of the Justice League at the end. Season 2 will address that. As for ‘Suicide Squad,’ it’s a bit more flexible.”

He further elaborated, “We know Rick Flag Sr. harbors resentment because Peacemaker killed his son, so that incident is acknowledged in ‘Creature Commandos,’ which positions it as canon. It’s not canon simply due to its presence in ‘Suicide Squad.'”

Gunn also expressed his passion for DC to Collider, saying, “What excites me most about DC is the world-building. It’s not just about crafting a story over several films and shows centered on a single villain. I don’t think audiences should feel like they need to do homework by watching every single piece of content. It’s a connected universe, set in the DCU, where variations will arise depending on the artists, directors, and production designers involved in creating these shows.”

Gunn’s history with Marvel is well known, having directed all three “Guardians of the Galaxy” films, with the final one heavily influenced by the events of “Avengers: Endgame.” This perspective hints at a critique of Marvel’s extensive universe (justifiably, as it often requires viewers to watch so much content to fully grasp the storyline).

Under Gunn’s leadership, DC Studios seems poised to deliver a diverse range of projects. The DCU itself is set to feature films based on iconic characters like Superman, Batman, Supergirl, and the Teen Titans. Additionally, fans can look forward to shows like “Creature Commandos,” “Peacemaker,” “Lanterns,” and “Booster Gold.” There’s a lot happening in the Elseworlds division too, with projects like “The Batman 2” and the intriguing CGI/stop-motion/live-action “Robins” film. It’s clear that Gunn isn’t shying away from variety, which is certainly exciting.