Gunn Addresses DC's Big Screen Future After Netflix Buys Warner Bros.
The recent Netflix acquisition of Warner Bros. has the film industry buzzing about the fate of movie theaters. Now, DC Studios co-head James Gunn has weighed in on the monumental deal, sharing his vision for the future of superhero blockbusters and how they fit into a streaming-dominated world.
The entertainment world is still processing the aftershocks of Netflix's blockbuster purchase of Warner Bros., a move that has sparked widespread debate across the industry. Many are questioning the future of traditional moviegoing, especially after Netflix boss Ted Sarandos voiced his skepticism about "long exclusive windows" for theaters.
Clash of Visions: Theaters vs. Streaming
Amid the uncertainty, DC Studios co-heads James Gunn and Peter Safran have offered their perspective on the landscape-altering deal. Gunn, the creative force behind the upcoming blockbuster *Superman*, made it clear that the big screen remains a priority for their superhero epics. He told Bloomberg that “the communal, theatrical experience is something that is incredibly important and remarkably well suited to our big spectacle films.”
This view contrasts with the strategy hinted at by Sarandos. During an investment call on December 5, he advised that following the deal, “You should think about ways that you can explore all these IP universes beyond that of just making tentpole movies.” He pointed to successful television expansions from the DC universe, noting that “Examples would be some of the earlier moves from the DC universe, for things like Penguin has turned into great television.”
DC's Dual-Platform Strategy
The DC universe under Gunn and Safran is just getting started, with *Superman*, *Peacemaker*, and the *Creature Commandos* leading the charge. Their future slate already reflects a strategy that embraces both theaters and streaming platforms. For instance, 2026 will see *Supergirl* debut in cinemas, while the *Lanterns* series is slated for an HBO Max release.
This balanced approach seems to have high-level support. As one executive explained, “The DC universe is big enough and strong enough that it should be available on all platforms. There are some stories that are important to be told in theaters around the world, and some stories that are important to be told as series.”
Confidence in the Creative Core
Despite the industry shake-up, the DC leadership remains confident in their plan, largely due to its architect. “What makes us irreplaceable is truly the mind of James Gunn. He’s been the architect of this grand vision,” Safran assured, highlighting their trust in the creative direction.
For now, fans and industry watchers can only speculate on how the Netflix acquisition will ultimately shape the DCU's release strategy. The hope among many is that major cinematic events will continue to have a meaningful presence in theaters before making their inevitable journey to a streaming library.