The DC Universe is in a new era, and the main question fans have is what will James Gunn’s Batman look and feel like? As ‘The Brave and the Bold’ is poised to bring the first official Dark Knight to the DCU, the anticipation is approaching a fever pitch.
However, this time around, anticipations are not merely about gadgets, villains, or even the Batmobile; fans desire a Batman who will finally be a combination of comic-book reality and cinematic richness.
What Fans Are Clamoring To See In The New DCU’s Batman
Fortunately, James Gunn has never been shy about pulling back the curtain. His recent comments on Threads not only show what fans desire most, but also what he personally believes is necessary to create a Batman that would be durable. And it is in the juxtaposition of these two lists, visual wants and storytelling needs. Over the years, viewers have seen different versions of the Caped Crusader develop.
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These versions included dark detectives, armored knights, and gothic vigilantes. Despite this long film history, there are still classic comic elements that have never found their way to mainstream live-action. And fans have been screaming about the top three must-haves for the new Batman. Unsurprisingly, no. 1 on that list is a throwback to the Classic Blue-and-Gray Suit.
This isn’t just nostalgia. The blue-and-gray suit has made Batman what he is today. A live-action adaptation would instantly make the DCU Batman stand out against all the other iconic live-action Batmen. Wearing bright colors doesn’t make Batman any less intimidating. Think of a Dark Knight, next to David Corenswet‘s Superman, without being lost in the shadows. The blue-and-grey style is a sign of confidence, tradition, and a Batman who knows what he is.
Then comes the yellow oval. The yellow oval is perhaps the most recognizable symbol in the history of superheroes, and it has been a long time since it appeared in a mainstream movie. It is not merely a symbol to fans, but a statement. It makes Batman immediately identifiable, gives the suit some pop, and references popular comic periods. More to the point, its revival is an opportunity to visually establish Batman in a single frame by the DCU.
At last, fans want to see Batman’s white eyes in the Cowl. This is the Batman holy grail. Animated Batman? White eyes. Comic Batman? White eyes. But live-action Batman? Rarely. White lenses would permit expressive, stylized shots and bring a comic-true silhouette to life. Fans aren’t just asking for it, they’re begging for a Batman who finally looks like the one they grew up with on page and screen.
James Gunn Cares More About Batman’s Storyline Than Just Visual Aspects
Although the fan wishlist is entirely visual, James Gunn’s priorities are much deeper. And that, to be quite honest, is what will make or break this version of Batman. Gunn has clarified that the character comes above all. It will not be just another reboot made on the basis of brooding monologues or gritty realism. Rather, the Dark Knight of the DCU has to be an appealing character that fits into the greater universe.
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This Batman is not going to work in a vacuum; he lives in an interconnected DCU. His choices, flaws, and relationships matter. And above all, he will be a father. Having Damian Wayne on board in ‘The Brave and the Bold’, Gunn has to juggle between Batman’s tough facade and his parental struggles. That alone promises storytelling layers we’ve never seen in live-action.
