As the new DC Universe takes shape under James Gunn, one topic continues to create major discussion: Batman. Moreover, although Gunn has confidently mapped out the future of Superman and several emerging heroes, he has openly admitted that Batman remains one of the most difficult pieces of the puzzle.
To make things more complex, two major Batman projects are running at the same time. Furthermore, fans continue to wonder whether these parallel versions could ever merge into a single universe.
Batman’s Future Questioned as Two Big Screen Versions Move Forward
DC Studios is developing both Matt Reeves’ The Batman Part II, which exists entirely outside the DCU, and Andy Muschietti’s The Brave and the Bold, which will introduce the DCU’s main Batman. Consequently, because Reeves’ interpretation already has a strong fanbase and a fully developed world, many viewers naturally wonder why the DCU doesn’t simply bring that version into the new continuity.
This question was recently addressed by Mike Flanagan, the writer behind the upcoming DCU Clayface movie.
Batman Debate Renewed as DCU Writer Talks Crossover Possibility
While speaking on a Screen Rant panel at Motor City Comic Con 2025, Flanagan was asked whether Robert Pattinson’s Batman could realistically join Gunn’s new universe. Furthermore, the question highlighted how strongly fans feel about merging the two Batman timelines.
Flanagan Praises Matt Reeves’ Gotham
Flanagan responded carefully, emphasizing how passionate and vocal DC fans can be:
“Of course, yeah. I gotta be careful… James Gunn is running DC his way, and I think it’s great. When it comes to the overall plan, I honestly have no idea what any of that looks like. However, Matt Reeves is a creative powerhouse, and the Gotham that he built is wonderful.”
He praised the success of The Penguin series and added that there could be a way to harmonize all these elements, depending on how Gunn wants to shape the DCU:
“…I trust James, and he has not let me down as a fan. I’m excited to see how they pulled this off, and how it could all connect.”
His comments reignited a major fan debate: Should Pattinson’s Batman become the DCU’s Batman?
Should Robert Pattinson’s Batman Become the DCU’s Main Batman?
Fans argue that Pattinson’s Batman is already established, loved, and easily imagined interacting with Superman or Wonder Woman. Additionally, bringing Reeves’ Gotham into the DCU would save time and preserve a world that audiences already connect with.
However, James Gunn’s new Elseworlds strategy changes things. For the first time, DC is embracing multiple live-action Batmen running at the same time. This approach allows filmmakers more creative freedom while giving fans different tones and interpretations.
The Brave and the Bold Must Justify a New Batman
For Gunn’s main Batman movie, The Brave and the Bold, to stand out, it must show why the DCU needs another version. Fortunately, the film could explore storylines that Reeves’ grounded noir style avoids—such as:
- A more comic-accurate Batman
- A full Bat-Family including Robin, Nightwing, and Batgirl
- A more seasoned, older Dark Knight
This direction helps differentiate the DCU’s hero from Pattinson’s younger, emotionally driven version.
Why Batman Universes Likely Won’t Connect
Despite Flanagan’s belief that a crossover could happen creatively, several clues suggest it won’t.
First, Clayface set photos reveal a Gotham City entirely separate from Reeves’ universe. Second, Matt Reeves has repeatedly stated that his saga is meant to stand alone creatively. Forcing a merger could disrupt his long-term plans and risk damaging a successful partnership. Additionally, Gunn appears confident that fans can handle dual timelines—especially if their releases are spaced out. If this strategy works, it could lead to more Elseworlds stories featuring different versions of major heroes like Superman and Wonder Woman.
Ultimately, Flanagan’s comments highlight the mystery surrounding Batman’s role in the DCU. While fans still hope for a connected universe where Pattinson meets the DCU’s heroes, all signs point toward Gunn keeping the two versions separate—for now. Still, as the DCU evolves, new surprises are always possible. And with The Batman Part II, The Brave and the Bold, and Clayface all in development, the future of Batman remains one of the most exciting chapters of the franchise.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on DCU’s upcoming projects, and subscribe to DC Updates’ YouTube channel.