The future of Batman in the DC Universe has been one of the biggest questions swirling ever since James Gunn revealed his ambitious “Gods and Monsters” slate back in early 2023. Among the most anticipated titles is ‘The Brave and the Bold’, a rebooted take on the Dark Knight that will exist entirely separate from Matt Reeves’ ‘The Batman’ universe.
However, with Pattinson set to return in ‘The Batman: Part II’ in 2027 and no formal release date announced for the DCU’s Batman film, many fans speculated that the new adaptation might not arrive until 2030 or even later.
‘The Brave And The Bold’ Targets Earlier Release
Recently, one fan asked Gunn on Threads if ‘The Brave and the Bold’ would release as late as 2030–2031. In classic Gunn fashion, his answer was brief but decisive: “No.” That one-word reply was enough to clear the air. While Gunn didn’t confirm a date, he shut down the speculation of a far-off release window. Insiders and fans alike are now eyeing 2028 as a much more probable target. Nothing is officially locked in.
Related: James Gunn Explains Why Two Live-Action Batmans Wouldn’t Be A Problem For Audiences
However, with DC Studios aiming to release two live-action films per year and 2028 currently unclaimed on their slate, that window makes strategic sense. Right now, ‘The Brave and the Bold’ is still in the scripting stage. The writer has not been publicly named, and no cast announcements have been made. What has been confirmed is that Andy Muschietti is set to helm the project. Gunn has also hinted that some story elements are being reworked behind the scenes to better align with the evolving DCU timeline.
As long as the script is finalized by early 2026, filming could feasibly begin in 2027. So, the door is wide open for a 2028 premiere. Releasing this Batman film one year after ‘The Batman: Part II’ would provide enough breathing space between the two franchises without forcing fans to wait half a decade for Gotham’s DCU debut. Some had assumed DC might delay the reboot until Reeves completed his trilogy. However, Gunn appears to be building a DCU that runs parallel to, not dependent on, Elseworlds stories.
James Gunn Says Big Actors Want Batman Role
Perhaps the most exciting update isn’t about dates, but about demand. In a candid conversation with IGN, Gunn revealed that a surprising number of A-list actors have already reached out to express interest in playing the Caped Crusader. “I can’t tell you the amount of big actors that have told me they want to be Batman,” Gunn said with a hint of amusement. “I think you’d have a harder time finding actors who don’t want to be Batman. He’s the one character everyone wants to play. That’s the truth.”
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It’s not hard to understand why. From Christian Bale’s iconic turn in Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy to Robert Pattinson’s noir-inspired vigilante in 2022, Batman has consistently drawn some of Hollywood’s most respected performers. The role is demanding, layered, and iconic. Gunn also teased that the film will take some creative liberties with Bruce Wayne’s backstory. “Some things have changed,” he said, referring to elements related to Bruce’s parentage and origin.
While he didn’t reveal details, it’s clear the team is reimagining the character in a different way. One thing that has remained consistent is the film’s inspiration: Grant Morrison’s acclaimed comic run. ‘The Brave and the Bold’ will introduce audiences not to a young or inexperienced Batman, but to a seasoned vigilante whose world has already evolved. Most significantly, Bruce Wayne’s biological son, Damian Wayne, will appear as Robin. This marks the first time this version of the character has been adapted in live action.
