James Gunn on DC Studios’ Approach to Superhero Films
Since taking the helm at DC Studios, James Gunn has emphasized that no superhero film will enter production without a finalized script. In a recent interview with Rolling Stone, he argued that the struggling film industry is largely due to Hollywood’s tendency to produce blockbusters before their scripts are complete.
“The decline of the movie industry isn’t due to a lack of audience interest or advancements in home viewing,” Gunn explained. “The primary issue is filmmakers producing films without finished screenplays.
DC Studios’ Commitment to Quality
Gunn revealed that DC Studios recently abandoned a project because the script did not meet expectations. He stated, “Everyone was eager to make the film and it was approved, but the script wasn’t ready. I cannot proceed with a movie if the screenplay isn’t solid. Fortunately, we’ve been lucky with scripts for ‘Supergirl,’ ‘Lanterns,’ and ‘Clayface’ – all have been excellent from the start.”
One advantage for Gunn is the absence of corporate pressure from Warner Bros. to produce a specific number of films and TV shows annually. Having previously worked with Marvel Studios, he noted how Disney’s demand for increased output negatively affected the Marvel universe. Disney CEO Bob Iger has since acknowledged this mistake.
A Focus on Quality Over Quantity
“It wasn’t fair or right, and it harmed them,” Gunn remarked about Marvel. “At DC, we aren’t bound by a requirement to release a certain number of projects each year. Our priority is to deliver high-quality content. While some of our work may vary in quality, we aim for everything to be as good as possible. Nothing is produced without a screenplay I’m satisfied with.”
Upcoming Projects in the DC Universe
With Gunn’s ‘Superman’ set to debut next month, the new DC Universe is about to launch. Currently, only one other film, ‘Supergirl,’ has completed filming with plans to expand the universe with titles featuring Batman and Wonder Woman.
Gunn expressed that Batman is currently his greatest challenge within the DC landscape, saying, “I’m collaborating with the writer on Batman to ensure we get it right because he is crucial to the DC narrative. Our aim is to develop a Batman that fulfills a specific role within the DC Universe, distinct from other portrayals.”
Finding the Right Approach to Iconic Characters
He added that developing a Wonder Woman movie presents fewer complexities since there haven’t been as many portrayals of her compared to Batman. “Every Batman story has already been explored,” Gunn noted, acknowledging Batman’s popularity and the challenge of keeping the character fresh and engaging.
For more insights, visit Rolling Stone’s website. ‘Superman’ opens in theaters on July 11 from Warner Bros.
