The DCU Launches with a New Era of Superhero Storytelling
The long-awaited release of Superman has marked the official launch of James Gunn’s vision for the DC Universe (DCU) on the big screen. This film, along with other projects under Gunn’s leadership, has been met with positive reviews from critics and fans alike. It has also performed well at the domestic box office, signaling that the DC brand is finally on a path to recovery after years of challenges and internal divisions. At the center of this new era is James Gunn, a director who has proven himself as one of the best in the superhero genre. His deep understanding and love for comic books shine through in his work, and he has earned significant respect for his contributions to the Marvel Cinematic Universe with the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy.
Gunn has spearheaded three major projects within the DCU: two TV shows and a movie, all of which have showcased his signature style—irreverence, energy, and a genuine appreciation for the source material. However, among these, one stands out as the most compelling. This article will rank every James Gunn project within the DCU so far based on their overall quality, consistency, and relevance to the larger universe.
Superman (2025) – The Most Hopeful Superhero Movie in Years
Bringing Superman back to the big screen was no small task. Gunn faced the challenge of rebuilding a franchise that had suffered from years of disappointment while also updating a character many believed was too rooted in outdated ideals to resonate with modern audiences. Despite these hurdles, Superman delivered an entertaining and solid story that marks the beginning of a slow but necessary recovery for the DC brand.
While not perfect, Superman is arguably Gunn’s most uneven effort to date. The plot is crowded and convoluted, attempting to serve as a franchise launcher while keeping the focus on Superman. However, the film succeeds largely due to its strong cast, led by David Corenswet in the title role. The movie also manages to maintain Superman’s core values—his optimism, hope, and Boy Scout-like demeanor—while making him relevant in today’s world. Although it has some flaws, such as sparse scenes between Clark and Lois and some jokes that fall flat, Superman remains a hopeful and earnest film that proves the Man of Steel can thrive in a modern context.
Creature Commandos (2025) – Supernatural Mayhem With a Dose of R-Rated Action
As the debut of the DCU, Creature Commandos is an animated series that introduces a team of supernatural beings working as a black-ops unit under Amanda Waller. The seven-episode series is a strong start for Gunn’s universe, showcasing his strengths as a writer. The ragtag group of characters works together in a chaotic yet cohesive way, creating a dynamic that mirrors the tone of the Guardians of the Galaxy films.
The voice cast is impressive, with Indira Varma standing out as the Bride, who serves as both the leader of the team and a promising figure in the DCU. The show balances humor with moments of explosive violence without feeling exploitative or cheap. While not every joke lands perfectly, especially those that lean into Gunn’s more crass instincts, Creature Commandos remains a solid foundation for the DCU to build upon.
Peacemaker (2022–Present) – A D-Level Character Becomes a Bona Fide Star
What began as a spinoff for a relatively unknown character has become one of the pillars of the DCU. Peacemaker, starring John Cena, defied expectations and became a standout in Gunn’s portfolio. The show is a wild mix of sci-fi, comedy, and emotional storytelling, offering a unique blend of humor and depth.
From its iconic opening sequence to its overall tone, Peacemaker is a triumph. It showcases Gunn at his most unfiltered, embracing his R-rated sensibilities while delivering a compelling character study. John Cena shines in the lead role, and Freddie Stroma’s performance as Vigilante adds another layer of complexity to the show. Beneath the chaos and vulgarity, Peacemaker deals with serious themes like guilt, loss, and the search for meaning. It is a testament to Gunn’s creative freedom and his ability to bring a unique vision to life.
Conclusion
James Gunn’s projects within the DCU have already made a significant impact, each contributing in its own way to the evolution of the universe. Whether it’s the hopeful return of Superman, the chaotic energy of Creature Commandos, or the unexpected rise of Peacemaker, Gunn continues to prove why he is one of the most exciting voices in superhero storytelling today. As the DCU moves forward, these projects set the stage for even more ambitious and innovative stories to come.
