Why Animal Man Should Be the Next DC Studios Project for James Gunn

James Gunn has built a dynamic career by turning lesser-known comic characters into household names. With Marvel Studios, Gunn transformed the Guardians of the Galaxy into one of Marvel’s most beloved franchises. He replicated this formula with DC’s Suicide Squad, Peacemaker, and now, Creature Commandos. As Gunn moves into post-production on Superman, there’s one character he should consider next for a film or series—Buddy Baker, also known as Animal Man.

Buddy Baker, despite his relative anonymity, is a character ripe for Gunn’s unique storytelling. The character had a particularly popular run during DC’s New 52 relaunch, where writer Jeff Lemire and artist Travel Foreman crafted a narrative tailored almost perfectly for Gunn’s style. This story deconstructs Animal Man by taking a seemingly inconsequential hero and immersing him in a plot that would make even David Lynch take notice. It explores The Red, a mystical force connecting all living entities, and subjects Baker to horrific, body-transforming adventures with the tones of a classic creature feature.

Gunn’s experience, which includes the likes of Guardians of the Galaxy and Slither, shows his knack for making emotionally resonant superhero films featuring characters who would otherwise be sidelined. An Animal Man film under Gunn’s direction could be a unique, standout superhero story.

Gunn and Peter Safran, co-leads of DC Studios, have set a promising initial slate for their “Gods and Monsters” phase. This includes notable films like Superman: Legacy, The Brave and the Bold, Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, Swamp Thing, and The Authority. Additionally, the slate features HBO Max television series such as Waller, Booster Gold, Lanterns, Paradise Lost, and an animated Creature Commandos series.

In a statement upon the announcement of their new roles, Gunn and Safran expressed their enthusiasm: “We’re honored to be the stewards of these DC characters we’ve loved since we were children. We look forward to collaborating with the most talented writers, directors, and actors in the world to create an integrated, multilayered universe that still allows for the individual expression of the artists involved. Our commitment to Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, Harley Quinn, and the rest of the DC stable of characters is only equaled by our commitment to the wonder of human possibility these characters represent. We’re excited to invigorate the theatrical experience around the world as we tell some of the biggest, most beautiful, and grandest stories ever told.”

The DC Universe will officially kick off with Creature Commandos, set to release this December, followed by Superman, which will hit theaters on July 11, 2025.

What part of Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters excites you the most? Share your thoughts!

Source: Comicbook