DC Universe

Ever since Zack Snyder took over as director of the latest DC Comics films (Man of Steel, Batman v Superman, and Justice League) some of his creative choices have been...controversial, to say the least. Fans have been highly divided on the films, and the critical reception has been less than stellar. However, many people agree that the director's cut of Batman v Superman is a marked improvement over the theatrical release, adding to character arcs, explaining some murky story elements, and closing plot threads. With Justice League in a similar boat, fans are looking forward to seeing what Snyder's true vision for the film was, and whether the director's cut can improve the film in a fashion similar to that of Batman v Superman.

DC is always on the move when it comes to their animated features. Whether it be shared universe films, standalones, or Elseworlds type of stories, DC animation can range from straightforward adaptations to complete reimaginings. Adding fuel to the hype, a trailer just debuted for the newly announced Batman: Death in the Family. Those familiar with the title may already know of the monumental 1988 storyline “A Death in the Family,” which resulted in the death of Jason Todd, the second Robin, at the hands of the Joker. This was made possible by the amount of fans who called a 1-900 number that year to let DC know whether or not they think Jason Todd should be killed.

Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox is a DC fan favorite. It catapults the DC Animated Movie Universe, is a phenomenal adaption of the Geoff Johns' comic, and introduces the non-comic book reading audience to Flashpoint Batman! We also get a brief, but mesmerizing glimpse into the sheer evil of Professor Zoom. A true sociopath! However, it is near the end of the film, with what he says that is a bit troubling. We finally learn what created this alternate Earth, and he challenges Barry Allen's selfish action. Many may think Professor Zoom has a point. But really...does he?

The DCEU film Justice League has been a hot topic of much comic book movie discussion since its release in November 2017. Zack Snyder could not complete the film due to a tragedy in the family, so Joss Whedon took over. The resulting film had a 120-minute runtime and was deemed underwhelming to many moviegoers. Even if it was not terrible, it should have been better for what it was. After all, the Justice League are DC's iconic team of high profile superheroes. Since the film's release, there have been tidbits about just how different Zack Snyder's version of the film would have been, prompting a sect of DC fandom to campaign for this version using #ReleaseTheSnyderCut.

Whenever a new Batman is cast, there tends to be a sect of fandom that feels skeptical about the new actor in the role. This goes way back to the casting of comedic actor Michael Keaton for the titular role in the 1989 film simply titled Batman. Lo and behold, Keaton now tends to be a fan favorite for many, with some even clamoring for him to return in a possible live-action Batman Beyond.

Months of being thrown down the drain and we finally have some more information on Matt Reeves' The Batman, which has been given a brand new production start date as long as it is no longer filmed on location. What does this actually mean? Well, when production gets the wheel rolling again, it will no longer be at a central location while filming. Instead, the film will be shot on brand new sets or stages in London, England. Matt Reeves was announced to be directing the new trilogy just last year and has gone on to cast Robert Pattison as the enigmatic playboy Bruce Wayne. Due to the pandemic, along with other smaller setbacks, the film is not set to released in theaters until late 2021.

THE DC EXTENDED UNIVERSE

The Pencil Trick

Batman is like the James Bond of superheroes. It’s hard to imagine a time when they’ll ever stop making Batman movies. Between now and 2022, there’s even going to be three live action Batman’s, as if one wasn’t enough.