Is DC’s Cinematic Future Looking Brighter?

Before we look at the future, let us take a look at the past. When Green Lantern was released back in 2011, expectations were high with hopes of launching a successful franchise.

Then the movie came out and those expectations came crashing down. Green Lantern majorly under-performed at the box office, grossing $219 million against a budget of $200 million and both fan and critics spoke out about the movies missteps. 

While a sequel was in the planning stages that was quickly cancelled. Fast forward to 2013 and the announcement that Man of Steel would be picking up the banner for the DC Extended Universe. 

The results have been hit or miss but lately the hits have been coming more and more with Joker really opening the door of possibilities of what DC can accomplish 

Warner Bros. is renewing their plans to expand their DC Films projects that include both Green Lantern Corps and The Flash movies. Variety reported that Joker’s $1 billion-and counting box office has (added to both Aquaman and Wonder Woman’s success) has reinvigorated the line.

Looking to push the boundaries, DC has high hopes for Birds of Prey, which is testing well with preview audiences, and it looks to be carrying an R-rating. The studio is also excited about The Batman and how actor Robert Pattinson will breath new life into the character.

In casting rumors, it’s being reported that Warner Bros. has been meeting with the likes of JJ Abrams and Michael B Jordan for a new Superman project. We’ll see how that pans out. 

A Green Lantern Corps movies is gaining traction with a Geoff Johns script hitting any day now. Johns is also partnering with Greg Berlanti on a Green Lantern TV show, and there’s a rumor that this could lead to Berlanti’s involvement in a feature film.  

We still should be getting a standalone Flash film starring Ezra Miller, who played the character in Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice and Justice League and another Aquaman in 2021. And don’t forget another Wonder Woman coming soon.

What’s the secret to DC’s success and vigor? Some point to Walter Hamada, DC Films’ president, who started last year and is working closely with Warner Bros. boss Toby Emmerich. Their focus? An established clear vision that is less cluttered.

Sometimes the having the most recognizable characters in the world with strong scripts and solid actors do their thing gets results. Who would have thought?