James Gunn’s reboot of the DC Universe represents the most exciting opportunity for superhero storytelling in years. With Superman leading the charge as the first film in this ambitious new cinematic universe, fans are already speculating about which beloved DC characters will follow the Man of Steel onto the big screen. New DCU characters promise a fresh start that honors decades of comic book history while bringing modern sensibilities to these iconic heroes and villains.
Furthermore, Gunn’s proven track record with ensemble casts and character-driven stories suggests that the DCU will prioritize heart and humor alongside spectacular action sequences. His ability to balance obscure characters with mainstream appeal makes him the perfect architect for introducing both fan-favorites and hidden gems to general audiences. Additionally, the interconnected nature of the DCU means that each new character introduction will build toward something larger and more ambitious than we’ve seen before.
Therefore, while we eagerly await Superman’s return, our imaginations are running wild with possibilities for the characters who will join him. The following ten characters represent the perfect blend of iconic status, storytelling potential, and visual spectacle that could define the DCU for years to come. Moreover, each brings unique opportunities for the kind of emotional storytelling that Gunn excels at delivering.
#10: Zatanna
Zatanna Zatara stands as one of DC’s most visually spectacular and underutilized characters, making her perfect for James Gunn’s DCU. As a stage magician with real magical powers who casts spells by speaking backwards, she brings a unique blend of showmanship and supernatural ability that would translate beautifully to film. Her character combines the glamour of classic Hollywood with genuine mystical threats, creating opportunities for both intimate character moments and reality-bending action sequences.
Additionally, Zatanna’s connection to the broader DC magical community makes her an ideal gateway character for introducing supernatural elements to the DCU. Her father, Giovanni Zatara, was a mentor to many DC heroes, while her own relationships with characters like Constantine and Doctor Fate could establish an entire magical corner of this universe. Furthermore, her stage performer background would allow for creative action sequences that blend practical magic tricks with CGI spectacle.
The visual potential for Zatanna’s magic system is extraordinary, particularly with modern special effects technology. Moreover, her backwards-speaking spell casting creates unique opportunities for creative sound design and visual storytelling. Consequently, audiences would be treated to magic sequences that feel both grounded in performance art and fantastically supernatural.
Our Fancast: Alexandra Daddario or Ana de Armas, both of whom possess the theatrical presence and mysterious charisma that Zatanna requires. However, the role also presents an opportunity to discover a breakout star who can embody both the glamour and power of this fascinating character.
Story we want to see adapted: “Zatanna: Everyday Magic” – A story that explores her dual life as both stage performer and real magician, dealing with supernatural threats that bleed into her normal world. This would allow audiences to see both sides of her character while establishing the magical rules of the DCU.
#9: Booster Gold
Booster Gold represents everything that James Gunn excels at: a flawed hero with genuine heart hidden beneath layers of ego and insecurity. As a time-traveling hero from the future who initially became a superhero for fame and fortune, Booster offers the perfect blend of comedy and character development that defines Gunn’s best work. His fish-out-of-water perspective on the modern world creates natural opportunities for both humor and social commentary.
Furthermore, Booster’s relationship with his AI companion Skeets provides built-in comedic potential while also serving as an emotional anchor for the character. The dynamic between the fame-seeking hero and his loyal robotic friend mirrors the ensemble relationships that Gunn crafted so successfully in Guardians of the Galaxy. Additionally, Booster’s knowledge of future events creates interesting storytelling possibilities and moral dilemmas about changing the timeline.
The character’s time-travel origins also provide a natural explanation for his introduction to the DCU without requiring extensive setup or origin story exposition. Moreover, his advanced technology and energy-based powers would create visually impressive action sequences that feel distinct from other heroes in the universe. Consequently, Booster could serve as both comic relief and a surprisingly effective emotional core for larger storylines.
Casting Booster Gold would require an actor capable of portraying both arrogance and vulnerability, someone who can make audiences laugh at the character while still rooting for his growth. Furthermore, the role demands someone comfortable with physical comedy and action sequences, making it an ideal vehicle for either an established comedic actor looking to enter the superhero genre or a dramatic actor wanting to showcase their range.
Our Fancast: Kumail Nanjiani or Chris Pratt would be perfect for capturing Booster’s blend of ego and heart, though the role could also serve as a breakthrough opportunity for a lesser-known comedic actor.
Story we want to see adapted: “Booster Gold: 52” – A time-travel adventure where Booster must fix timeline anomalies while learning to become a true hero rather than just seeking fame. This story would showcase his growth while providing spectacular time-travel action sequences.
#8: Martian Manhunter
J’onn J’onzz, the Martian Manhunter, represents one of DC’s most emotionally complex and visually striking characters. As the last surviving member of his species, he carries the weight of an entire civilization’s destruction while serving as one of Earth’s most dedicated protectors. His struggle with isolation and his deep empathy for humanity creates exactly the kind of emotional storytelling that James Gunn excels at exploring. Additionally, his shapeshifting abilities and telepathic powers offer unlimited creative possibilities for both character development and spectacular action sequences.
The character’s dual nature as both alien outsider and adopted Earth protector provides rich material for exploring themes of belonging, identity, and found family. Furthermore, his detective background and investigative skills could establish him as the DCU’s premier problem-solver, capable of uncovering threats that purely physical heroes might miss. Moreover, his weakness to fire creates a relatable vulnerability that humanizes this incredibly powerful character.
Visually, Martian Manhunter presents exciting opportunities for cutting-edge special effects and practical makeup design. His iconic green skin and red eyes create an instantly recognizable silhouette, while his shapeshifting abilities would allow for creative action sequences and dramatic reveals. Consequently, modern CGI technology could finally do justice to his full range of abilities without compromising the practical, grounded feeling that Gunn brings to his films.
The casting possibilities for Martian Manhunter are particularly intriguing, as the role requires an actor capable of conveying deep emotion through heavy makeup or motion capture technology. However, the character’s telepathic abilities also create opportunities for creative voice work and internal monologue that could attract serious dramatic actors to the role.
Our Fancast: Idris Elba or Jeffrey Wright would bring the gravitas and emotional depth needed for J’onn’s tragic backstory while having the voice work to make his telepathic scenes compelling.
Story we want to see adapted: “Martian Manhunter: American Secrets” – A detective noir story that explores J’onn’s early days on Earth, combining his shapeshifting abilities with classic detective work while revealing his emotional journey of learning to connect with humanity.
#7: The Question
Vic Sage, known as The Question, represents the perfect street-level detective for James Gunn’s DCU. As an investigative journalist who becomes a faceless vigilante to pursue stories too dangerous for conventional reporting, he embodies the noir tradition while offering something completely unique in the superhero landscape. His conspiracy-theorist tendencies and obsessive pursuit of truth create natural opportunities for both paranoid thriller elements and darkly comic moments that would fit perfectly with Gunn’s sensibilities.
Additionally, The Question’s faceless mask creates one of the most visually striking and unsettling character designs in all of comics. The smooth, featureless face suggests both anonymity and inhuman detachment, making him genuinely frightening to criminals while maintaining his heroic status. Furthermore, his investigative methods and conspiracy-focused storylines could serve as the perfect vehicle for exploring real-world issues through a superhero lens.
The character’s connection to larger DC mythology through his relationship with other heroes like Blue Beetle and his mentorship of Renee Montoya provides natural expansion opportunities for the DCU. Moreover, his philosophical approach to heroism and justice creates interesting moral questions that could drive compelling character interactions and conflicts throughout multiple films.
Casting The Question presents unique challenges and opportunities, as much of the character’s screen time would require acting through a mask that obscures facial expressions. However, this limitation could attract character actors known for their distinctive voices and physical performances, creating a memorable and distinctive addition to the DCU roster.
Our Fancast: Oscar Isaac or Jake Gyllenhaal would excel at the investigative intensity and philosophical depth The Question requires, plus both have proven they can act effectively through masks or heavy makeup.
Story we want to see adapted: “The Question: Pipeline” – A conspiracy thriller where Vic Sage investigates a drug pipeline that leads to corruption at the highest levels of government, showcasing both his investigative skills and his willingness to cross lines other heroes won’t.
#6: Batman
Batman remains one of the most iconic and essential characters in the DC Universe, and James Gunn’s fresh take on the Dark Knight could redefine the character for a new generation. While previous Batman films have explored the character’s origins extensively, the DCU presents an opportunity to showcase a more experienced Batman who has already established himself as Gotham’s protector. Furthermore, Gunn’s approach to character development and team dynamics could reveal new aspects of Bruce Wayne’s personality that complement rather than overshadow other heroes.
Additionally, Batman’s detective skills and strategic mind make him the perfect character to serve as the DCU’s tactical leader and problem-solver. His extensive rogues gallery and connection to the broader DC Universe through characters like Robin, Nightwing, and the Bat-family creates natural expansion opportunities. Moreover, his wealth and technological resources provide logical explanations for how heroes can afford their equipment and maintain their secret identities.
The character’s grounded nature could serve as an interesting contrast to the more fantastical elements of the DCU while proving that street-level heroes can hold their own alongside gods and aliens. Furthermore, Batman’s moral code and unwillingness to kill creates opportunities for interesting conflicts and philosophical discussions with other heroes who might take more extreme approaches.
For casting, fans have shown significant enthusiasm for actors like Jensen Ackles or Alan Ritchson, both of whom possess the physical presence and dramatic range necessary to portray an experienced Batman. Additionally, their previous work demonstrates the ability to balance brooding intensity with moments of unexpected humor, which would be essential for fitting into Gunn’s collaborative heroic universe.
Our Fancast: Jensen Ackles or Alan Ritchson would both bring the physicality and proven action experience needed for an established Batman, while having the dramatic chops to explore Bruce Wayne’s psychology.
Story we want to see adapted: “Batman: Court of Owls” – A psychological thriller where Batman discovers a secret society that has controlled Gotham for centuries, challenging everything he thought he knew about his city while providing both detective work and spectacular action sequences.
#5: John Constantine
John Constantine represents the perfect entry point for supernatural elements in James Gunn’s DCU. As a working-class occult detective from Liverpool, he brings a cynical, street-smart perspective to magical threats that would ground even the most fantastical supernatural storylines. Furthermore, his morally ambiguous nature and willingness to make difficult choices creates the kind of complex character dynamics that Gunn excels at exploring through his ensemble storytelling approach.
Additionally, Constantine’s extensive knowledge of magic, demons, and supernatural threats makes him an invaluable resource for other heroes while maintaining his status as a reluctant participant in traditional heroic activities. His chain-smoking, trench-coat-wearing persona creates an instantly recognizable visual that translates perfectly to film while his working-class background provides opportunities for social commentary and character development.
The character’s connection to the broader DC supernatural community through characters like Zatanna, Doctor Fate, and the Justice League Dark creates natural expansion opportunities for the magical side of the DCU. Moreover, his tendency to solve problems through trickery and manipulation rather than direct confrontation provides unique solutions to conflicts that other heroes might approach through force.
Constantine’s moral complexity and personal demons create opportunities for the kind of character growth and redemption arcs that define Gunn’s best work. Furthermore, his British background and distinctive personality would add international flavor and cultural diversity to the primarily American superhero landscape. Consequently, he could serve as both a supernatural consultant for other heroes and the anchor for his own horror-tinged storylines that explore the darker corners of the DCU.
Our Fancast: Matt Ryan (who has already played the character perfectly) or alternatively, someone like Charlie Hunnam who could bring the working-class British authenticity and moral ambiguity the role requires.
Story we want to see adapted: “Constantine: Hellblazer – Dangerous Habits” – The iconic storyline where John discovers he has lung cancer and must outwit multiple demons to save his soul, showcasing his cunning and the moral complexity of his world.
#4: Wonder Woman
Wonder Woman represents one of DC’s most iconic heroes and deserves a prominent place in James Gunn’s DCU. As an Amazonian princess who serves as a bridge between the world of gods and mortals, she brings unique perspectives on justice, truth, and compassion that would complement Superman’s idealism perfectly. Additionally, her warrior background and mythological connections create opportunities for both intimate character moments and epic fantasy action sequences that would showcase the full range of the DCU’s storytelling possibilities.
Furthermore, Wonder Woman’s status as a symbol of strength and empowerment makes her inclusion essential for establishing the DCU’s commitment to diverse representation and inclusive storytelling. Her relationships with other heroes, particularly her role in the Trinity alongside Superman and Batman, creates natural opportunities for team dynamics and character interactions. Moreover, her diplomatic background and royal status provide unique solutions to conflicts that purely physical heroes might not consider.
The visual potential for Wonder Woman’s powers and mythology is extraordinary, particularly her connection to the Greek gods and her iconic weapons and equipment. However, her emphasis on truth and justice creates the moral foundation that would anchor even the most spectacular mythological storylines. Consequently, audiences would connect with her principles and values while being amazed by her godlike abilities.
Casting Wonder Woman for the DCU presents the opportunity to find an actress who can embody both the character’s warrior strength and her compassionate heart. Additionally, the role requires someone capable of handling both intense action sequences and diplomatic character moments. Therefore, the right casting choice could define the character for a new generation while honoring her decades of comic book history.
Our Fancast: Eiza González or Gemma Chan would bring both the physical presence and acting range needed for Wonder Woman, combining warrior intensity with the diplomatic grace the character requires.
Story we want to see adapted: “Wonder Woman: Gods and Mortals” – The classic George Pérez storyline that explores Diana’s first mission in Man’s World, balancing mythological elements with her learning to understand humanity and justice in the modern world.
#3: Green Lantern (Kyle Rayner)
The Green Lantern Corps represents one of the most visually spectacular and narratively rich concepts in all of comics, making their inclusion in the DCU absolutely essential. However, with Hal Jordan and John Stewart already confirmed for the upcoming “Lanterns” series, the perfect opportunity exists to introduce Kyle Rayner as the DCU’s primary Green Lantern. As an artist who becomes the sole Green Lantern when the Corps is destroyed, Kyle offers a fresh perspective on the mythology while providing the creative visual flair that would showcase the ring’s imagination-based powers perfectly.
Additionally, Kyle’s artistic background makes his construct creations more visually interesting and creative than typical Green Lantern displays, providing perfect opportunities for James Gunn to showcase spectacular and unique action sequences. The character’s journey from reluctant hero to confident protector creates the kind of character growth arc that defines Gunn’s best storytelling. Furthermore, his role as the “Torchbearer” who must rebuild the Corps from nothing provides both personal stakes and cosmic scope.
The character’s connection to the larger DC Universe through his relationships with other heroes and his eventual role in training new Green Lanterns creates opportunities for both individual character stories and epic ensemble adventures. Moreover, Kyle’s more emotional and artistic approach to heroism provides a nice contrast to the more military-focused Hal Jordan and John Stewart, allowing for different types of Green Lantern stories.
Our Fancast: John Boyega or Michael Cera would bring the artistic sensitivity and growth potential needed for Kyle’s journey from uncertain artist to confident cosmic protector.
Story we want to see adapted: “Green Lantern: Emerald Twilight/New Dawn” – The epic storyline where Kyle becomes the last Green Lantern and must learn to use his powers while eventually working to restore the Corps, providing both personal character development and spectacular cosmic action.
#2: The Flash (Wally West)
While Barry Allen has been the focus of recent Flash media, the DCU presents the perfect opportunity to introduce Wally West as the primary speedster, similar to how the MCU successfully transitioned from Hank Pym to Scott Lang as Ant-Man. As Barry’s former sidekick who inherits the mantle, Wally offers a fresh take on the Flash legacy while bringing his own unique personality and relationships to the role. Furthermore, Wally’s more relaxed and humorous approach to heroism would fit perfectly with James Gunn’s character-driven storytelling style.
Additionally, Wally’s connection to the Speed Force differs from Barry’s, often being portrayed as having a more intuitive and emotional relationship with his powers rather than the scientific approach Barry takes. His ability to share his speed with others and his deeper connection to the Speed Force’s mystical aspects create unique visual and storytelling opportunities. Moreover, his relationships with other young heroes like the Titans creates natural expansion opportunities for the DCU.
The character’s journey from sidekick to solo hero provides the perfect character arc for a feature film, allowing audiences to see him grow into the role while establishing his own identity separate from Barry Allen. Furthermore, his more irreverent personality and pop culture knowledge would create natural opportunities for the humor and heart that define Gunn’s best work.
Our Fancast: Lucas Till or Dylan O’Brien would capture Wally’s youthful energy and humor while having the physicality needed for the intense action sequences the role requires.
Story we want to see adapted: “The Flash: Terminal Velocity” – The storyline where Wally must push his speed powers to their absolute limit to save Linda Park, exploring both the emotional stakes of his civilian relationships and the cosmic implications of his connection to the Speed Force.
#1: Brainiac
Brainiac stands as one of Superman’s greatest enemies and represents the perfect villain to establish the cosmic scope and genuine threats that the DCU will face. As a hyper-intelligent alien android who collects civilizations by shrinking entire cities, he embodies existential horror on a universal scale while remaining deeply personal in his threat to Superman’s Kryptonian heritage. Furthermore, his technological superiority and calculating nature create the kind of intellectual challenge that showcases Superman’s heroism beyond simple physical confrontation.
Additionally, Brainiac’s role as the destroyer of Krypton and collector of the capital city Kandor provides natural emotional stakes for Superman while introducing cosmic-level threats that could affect the entire DCU. His various robotic forms and technological abilities offer unlimited creative possibilities for both character design and action sequences. Moreover, his calculating intelligence and lack of conventional emotions create opportunities for genuinely unsettling villain moments that feel both alien and threatening.
The character’s technological focus also provides natural opportunities to showcase the DCU’s scientific and technological aspects while creating threats that require teamwork and strategy rather than simple power escalation. Furthermore, his collection of civilizations creates opportunities for exploring diverse alien cultures and expanding the universe’s scope beyond Earth-based adventures. Consequently, Brainiac could serve as both a personal nemesis for Superman and a universe-threatening force that brings heroes together.
Casting Brainiac presents unique opportunities for creative voice work and motion capture performance, as the character’s alien nature allows for innovative approaches to villain portrayal. However, the role also requires conveying genuine intelligence and menace through potentially heavy special effects work. Therefore, the right casting choice could create one of cinema’s most memorable and threatening superhero villains while establishing the DCU’s commitment to serious dramatic stakes.
Our Fancast: Benedict Cumberbatch or Giancarlo Esposito would bring the intellectual menace and distinctive voice work needed to make Brainiac both terrifying and memorable through motion capture or voice performance.
Story we want to see adapted: “Brainiac: For the Man Who Has Everything” – A psychological horror story where Brainiac traps Superman in a perfect fantasy world while simultaneously threatening Earth, combining intimate character moments with cosmic-scale action and showcasing why Brainiac is Superman’s most dangerous enemy.
DCU Characters Honorable Mentions
Several other characters deserve consideration for the DCU, each bringing unique opportunities for storytelling and visual spectacle. Hawkman and Hawkgirl offer the chance to explore reincarnation mythology and ancient civilizations while providing spectacular aerial combat sequences. Their eternal love story and warrior backgrounds create natural opportunities for both romantic drama and epic action.
Additionally, Plastic Man represents the perfect vehicle for James Gunn’s comedy sensibilities while offering unlimited visual possibilities through his stretching and shapeshifting abilities. His reformed criminal background and irreverent personality would provide natural comic relief while maintaining genuine heroic moments.
Furthermore, Doctor Fate brings magical elements and cosmic mysticism that could establish the supernatural side of the DCU. His connection to ancient Egyptian mythology and the Lords of Order creates opportunities for exploring themes of destiny, responsibility, and the balance between order and chaos.
Finally, the Blue Beetle, particularly Jaime Reyes, offers the chance to explore teenage heroism and cultural representation while showcasing incredible alien technology bonded to a human host. His scarab armor provides visual spectacle while his family-focused background creates the kind of grounded emotional stakes that make superhero stories resonate with audiences.
New DCU Characters are Exciting
The future of James Gunn’s DCU holds incredible promise for both longtime comic book fans and general audiences discovering these characters for the first time. Each of these ten characters represents a unique opportunity to explore different aspects of heroism, different visual possibilities, and different storytelling approaches that could define the DCU’s identity for years to come. Moreover, their diverse backgrounds and abilities create natural opportunities for the kind of ensemble storytelling that Gunn excels at crafting.
Additionally, the interconnected nature of these characters means that their individual introductions could build toward larger storylines and crossover events that feel both earned and exciting. The DCU’s success will ultimately depend on its ability to balance spectacular superhero action with genuine character development and emotional stakes.
Furthermore, Gunn’s proven track record with ensemble casts and character-driven stories suggests that these characters will be treated with the respect and creativity they deserve. His ability to find the human elements in fantastic concepts makes him the perfect architect for bringing these beloved heroes and villains to life.
Therefore, while we eagerly await Superman’s return to establish the tone and scope of this new universe, these ten characters represent the exciting possibilities that lie ahead. The DCU has the potential to redefine superhero storytelling for a new generation while honoring the decades of comic book history that made these characters beloved in the first place.
What characters are you most excited to see in the DCU? Share your thoughts and let us know which heroes and villains you think deserve their moment in the spotlight!
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