Summary
James Gunn’s newDC Universehasn’t even launched yet, but it’s already taking flak. With multiple films delayed or stumbling, cracks are starting to show even beforeSupermanputs on his cape, and fans are starting to notice.
The DCU’s fresh start is already facing turbulence, andSupermanhasn’t even landed yet. With James Gunn’s reboot still in pre-launch mode, DC Studios has reportedly shelved theSgt. Rockproject and may now be reworkingClayfaceas well. These shakeups are raising eyebrows among fans eager for a solid roadmap, casting early doubt on the new DC Universe’s stability.
According to insider Jeff Sneider onThe Hot Micpodcast, Mike Flanagan’sClayfacefilm may be headed for a full creative reset. Flanagan reportedly only submitted a bare-bones draft for the Batman villain-centric project. With his attention now on developing aCarrieTV adaptation,Clayface’ssolo filmis reportedly undergoing a complete Page 1 rewrite. This suggests Warner Bros. is rethinking the direction of the DC project, possibly shelving Flanagan’s original take in favor of something more aligned with its evolving DC Universe plans. Sneider also shared that another DC project,Sgt. Rockwasn’t derailed by weather issues as previously rumored, but by budget constraints. Director Luca Guadagnino initially had $70 million to work with, but the number was cut to $65 million, which allegedly compromised his vision. Daniel Craig was originally attached to star, but after his exit, the role was reluctantly recast withColin Farrell, fresh off his turn asThe Penguin.
Despite Their Creative Vision, James Gunn and Peter Safran’s Lack of Studio Experience Worries DC Fans
James Gunn recently shared his excitement about the potential ofClayface, a project that would have been a dream for him and Peter five years ago when they were working on projects likeBelko Experiment. Gunn praised the horror script, calling it a standout body horror piece that would have been a top pick for production. “The fact that it’s now part of the DC Universe makes it even better,” he said. The film, described as raw and psychological, promises to be truly disturbing, with elements of body horror that make it a standout R-rated experience. In February, director James Watkins, known for hishorror work onEden Lake, was tapped to bring the terrifying vision ofClayfaceto life. With Watkins at the helm, this could become one of the most unsettling comic book adaptations.
When theDCU was first announcedin early 2023, it came with a bold lineup of films and TV shows. Yet, only a few projects have made it to screens so far, echoing the 2014 DCEU slate reveal, which ultimately didn’t live up to expectations. Now under the leadership of James Gunn and producer Peter Safran, DC Studios seems to be facing growing pains. Despite their creative vision, their inexperience in managing the studio has raised concerns about their decision-making process. With multiple setbacks already behind them, time is running out for the DCU to deliver a film ready for its projected 2026/2027 release.
Despite James Gunn’s assertion that DC Studios operates independently from Warner Bros. Pictures, he remains accountable to Warner Bros. Discovery executives. During the podcast, Sneider suggested that the future of the DCU will be reassessed following the release ofSupermanthis summer.
Clayfaceis currently slated for June 10, 2025,
