James Gunn’s DCU is moving fast, and with ‘Supergirl‘ arriving shortly after ‘Superman‘, the new universe is already testing how flexible and bold it can be. One of the biggest wild cards? The long-awaited appearance of Lobo, played by Jason Momoa.
Years have gone by, and fans have been arguing that Momoa was born to play the intergalactic bounty hunter, and now that it is actually happening, the expectations are high. However, it is one important aspect that will determine whether Lobo will be DC’s regular character or a one-time appearance.
Lobo’s DCU Debut Could Change How Fans See The New Universe
DC could not have done better in terms of casting. Momoa’s physicality, his anarchic charisma, and innate threat are almost in line with Lobo’s comic-book character. In contrast to Aquaman, which at first appeared to be a strange decision, Lobo appears to be a role that Momoa has been orbiting his whole career. He looks right. He sounds right.
Related: DC Finally Lets Jason Momoa Go Full Lobo In New ‘Supergirl’ Trailer
He even grins. However, the problem is that Supergirl might not be the right place to make that first impression. The film’s darker, grungier sci-fi tone, far removed from the vibrant art style of ‘Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow’, has already divided fans. The few shots of Lobo in the initial footage are overly obscured, and it is difficult to enjoy the design or presence of the character.
That is a dangerous step for a character who lives on visual extravagance and personality. Momoa has already affirmed that Lobo’s role in ‘Supergirl’ is brief. That is to say that his debut must strike at once. A quick, murky action beat won’t cut it if DC wants audiences leaving theaters buzzing about him.
The Risk And Reward Of Introducing Lobo In ‘Supergirl’
To compete with the breakout success of Marvel’s Lobo, Deadpool, DC needs to capitalize on his personality, and not just his violence. Deadpool was successful because viewers immediately knew who he was: irreverent, self-aware, and impossible to ignore. Lobo requires such clarity of tone even in minimal screen time. That does not need a lengthy role. It requires confidence.
In case you missed it: DC’s Upcoming Animated Batman Movie Might Outshine Its Live-Action Rivals
Let Lobo be loud and funny. If his cameo makes viewers think, Wait, who was that guy? DC wins. Paradoxically, the cosmic nature of ‘Supergirl’ can be his ideal playground. Kara Zor-El’s space trip inevitably collides with characters like Lobo, and if Momoa delivers, he might easily steal the momentum of the movie even in a few minutes.
You might like to read: DC Unveils A Surprising New Member Of The Batman Family
