DC Studios fans have been eagerly following updates on the DCU’s Batman projects. It has been nearly three years since the announcement of Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters. Despite the excitement, the Batman role remains uncast. Meanwhile, rumors about the release timeline have been swirling online. Recently, James Gunn addressed some of these speculations. He debunked reports claiming that The Brave and the Bold is targeting a 2028 release.
James Gunn Clarifies the Rumors
The confusion began when Dread Central reported on X:
“Hearing the screenplay is finished for Andy Muschietti’s new Batman film, [The] Brave and the Bold, and that Warner Bros. is looking at a 2028 release.”
However, James Gunn quickly responded on Threads, stating:
“Fiction, sorry. Screenplay isn’t finished.”
He also addressed speculation about The Batman Part II having a test screening, commenting:
“That would be strange since the movie hasn’t started production.”
Many online rumors are premature. DC Studios is still shaping its Batman plans carefully.
Batman Casting and Creative Challenges
James Gunn has openly acknowledged the difficulty of defining the DCU’s version of Batman, particularly alongside Matt Reeves’ successful Batman franchise, which exists as a separate “Elseworlds” project.
Regarding casting, Gunn said:
“Do I have ideas about actors who could play Batman? Absolutely, I do. I have guys I like. I have guys that are top of the list for me, just like I had people that were at the top of the list for Superman.”
He added:
“People can guess and maybe they’ll be right about certain things. We’d have to screen test, we’d have to do the whole thing. The script isn’t done. I mean, we’ve got somebody writing a script, I think it’s really good.”
Gunn’s comments highlight the careful consideration DC Studios is giving to both casting and story development, ensuring the DCU version of Batman will feel fresh yet respectful of the character’s legacy.
Andy Muschietti’s Involvement
Director Andy Muschietti remains attached to helm The Brave and the Bold, based on a script by an unnamed writer. However, his continued involvement has sparked debate among fans, particularly after the mixed reception to The Flash (2023).
Despite the criticism, Muschietti’s attachment indicates that DC Studios values a visionary director for its key projects. His experience with high-profile superhero films is expected to help balance fan expectations with innovative storytelling.
Currently, The Brave and the Bold does not have a confirmed release date. Fan frustration is growing due to the long delays, with some suggesting that a Wonder Woman movie could arrive before this Batman installment.
Nevertheless, James Gunn’s statements clarify that the project is still in active development. With a screenplay in progress and casting discussions ongoing, DC Studios appears determined to deliver a high-quality and meticulously planned addition to the DCU, rather than rushing for a set release year.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on DCU’s upcoming projects, and subscribe to DC Updates’ YouTube channel.
Patrick Webb 
Ambily Sajan