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Summary
The cinematic landscape for the new DC Cinematic Universe is in flux as James Gunn and Peter Safran usher in their vision for the DCU. Among their plans is an official DCUBatmanmovie, The Brave and the Bold, which is set to introduce a new Caped Crusader alongside Damian Wayne as Robin. However, this ambitious endeavor is complicated byThe Batman Part 2, Matt Reeves' sequel to his critically acclaimed and financially successful noir-inspired take on Gotham’s protector.
While Gunn has expressed public support for Reeves' vision and made it clear thatThe Batmanfilms exist in their own cornerof the multiverse, the delay ofThe Batman Part 2to 2026 could create significant issues for the future of DC. The coexistence of two vastly different Batman narratives risks audience confusion, logistical hurdles, and questions about how—or if—these separate universes could coexist without undermining one another.
The Challenge of Two Batman Stories
Having two activeBatmanfilm franchises may sound like a dream for fans, but it also presents a double-edged sword. Gunn’s DCU slate aims to establish a cohesive universe with interconnected characters and narratives. Introducing a newBatman inThe Brave and the BoldwhileThe Batman Part 2is still fresh in audiences’ minds could dilute the brand.
For general moviegoers, thepotential overlap between the gritty, grounded tone of Reeves' Gotham and the presumably more fantastical approach of Gunn’s DCU might cause confusion. Casual fans may struggle to reconcile why there are two different Batmen operating simultaneously, especially if both franchises release films in close proximity.
Moreover, Reeves’ vision is deeply tied toRobert Pattinson’s portrayal of a younger, brooding Bruce Wayne still finding his footing as Gotham’s protector. Allowing Pattinson’s Batman to coexist with a more seasoned, DCU-focused Dark Knight could disrupt the narrative flow of both universes. Gunn and Reeves would need to carefully coordinate—or completely segregate—their projects to avoid tonal and thematic clashes.
Incorporating Pattinson into the DCU
One possible solution, however unlikely, would be toincorporate Pattinson’s Batman into the DCU. Gunn has already embraced the concept of the multiverse, with The Flash exploring alternate timelines and Elseworlds branding being used for standalone projects likeJoker: Folie à Deux.
IfPattinson’s Batman were to transition into the DCU, it could provide continuity for audiences who are already invested in his story. However, this raises logistical concerns. Reeves has built The Batman around its own self-contained world, with plans for spin-offs likeThe Penguinseries on Max. Folding Pattinson’s iteration into the wider DCU would likely mean compromising Reeves' artistic vision, which has been a cornerstone of the franchise’s success.
Additionally, transitioningPattinson’s Batman to the DCUwould complicate plans forThe Brave and the Bold, which is expected to introduce a seasoned Bruce Wayne with a son in tow. Forcing Pattinson’s portrayal to align with this storyline would clash with the character development established inThe Batman.
Gunn’s Balancing Act
James Gunn has repeatedly emphasized his respect for creative freedom and his desire to collaborate with filmmakers to craft compelling stories.His public support of Reeves' worksuggests a willingness to let The Batman remain separate from the DCU, but this approach is not without its risks.
From a business perspective, DC faces an uphill battle in re-establishing its cinematic brand after the inconsistent performance of the DCEU. Having two concurrent Batman narratives could undermine the cohesion Gunn and Safran are trying to build. Audiences may grow fatigued or confused by multiple versions of iconic characters appearing in separate franchises, which could weaken both projects’ potential impact. However, there’s also plenty of reasons why two Batmans can work, especially considering it’s one of the most popular characters in all of comic lore. Matt Reeves has established his version and having a more comic book-like version could play well in the DCU.
However, Gunn’s plans for the DCU rely on building momentum with key characters like Superman, Wonder Woman, and Batman. IfThe Batman Part 2dominates headlines and box office in 2025, it may overshadow the introduction of the DCU’s Batman, delaying the franchise’s ability to establish its identity.
The road ahead for DC’s cinematic universe is paved with challenges, andThe Batman Part 2is a major wildcardin James Gunn’s plans. While the multiverse approach provides creative flexibility, it also introduces potential pitfalls that require careful navigation.
While the multiverse approach provides creative flexibility, it also introduces potential pitfalls that require careful navigation.
Ultimately, the success of bothThe Batman Part 2and Gunn’s DCU will depend on clear communication with audiences and a strategic release schedule. Gunn’s ability to juggle the two franchises while preserving their distinct tones and stories could set the stage for a bold new era of superhero cinema—orrisk further fracturing the DC brand.
The Batman Part II
Cast
The Batman Part II is the sequel to Matt Reeve’s The Batman, released in 2022, and will continue where the original film left off. The film shares a universe with the HBO Max original Penguin series and sees the return of the Riddler and a different incarnation of the Joker.
