DC Universe vs. Marvel Cinematic Universe: An In-Depth Analysis and Comparison.

Ever since James Gunn shared his plans for a restructured DC cinematic universe, it’s thrown the fandom (especially DC fans) into a frenzy as to what the details/rationale behind this restructuring could entail.

The chapter 1 slate of the newly established DCU titled ‘Gods & Monsters’ features 10 projects in all, not to mention the fact that they’re evenly split right down the middle with regards to the different mediums that will be used. Put simply, 5 of these projects are series/shows that will give the franchise a chance to tell serialized stories or narratives too complex to be compressed into feature films which will make up the latter half of the franchise.

Whilst much is still unknown about the budding comic book cinematic franchise, filmmaker and DCU Co-ceo hopes to rival and yet mirror the MCU in more ways than one.

The Nature of the DCU

While it is still in its formative stages and hence too early to definitely say what the new superhero cinematic franchise will look like, a calculated guess can still be made based on the Co-ceo’s previous superhero cinematic outings. It’s no secret at this point that James Gunn favours off-beat, quirky-looking and infamous characters. So it’s safe to expect something of an underdog spirit from the DCU, despite the fact that iconic characters like Superman, Batman and Green Lantern will [indeed] be part of it. Knowing this, one should certainly expect James Gunn to twist these characters and their stories in a way that could defy conventional or modern expectations.

The pedestrian nature of the MCU has many fatigued at this point and though they tried to disrupt this [a little bit] in Phase 4, it still wasn’t enough to pacify the fan base with many even citing the disruption as a major pitfall of the Phase; because the throughline needed to connect the projects was lacking for a better part of the Phase.

Now while the DCU seems to have fallen into this disruptive cycle, many still seem to be taking it well; maybe because James Gunn has in fact assured all that there is a payoff or the ever loyal DC fan base are content knowing that in the next few years and beyond, the status quo that has seen the MCU covet the cinematic space will no longer be the case. Whatever your orientation, it seems the DCU will set a precedent that is different from what the MCU has offered thus far.

Numbered Expectations for the DCU

As earlier stated, the DCU will feature serialized storytelling detours in conjunction with big screen features. Of course, it’s no secret the MCU favours this playbook, but unlike the MCU where the shows serve to compliment the movies (save for a select few). The DCU shows when juxtaposed alongside the movies feels individualistic and not like complimentary pieces. It then makes one wonder just how well everything will connect to each other, since it is in fact confirmed that there will be an overarching narrative.

Worth noting as well, is the episode count for the shows. While nothing as been confirmed as of yet, a calculated guess can be made yet again by considering a small screen comic book endeavour helmed by the Co-ceo.

The critically and generally acclaimed Peacemaker [series] told its unapologetically absurd and [at times] moving story across 8 episodes, and seeing as the show is still in fact confirmed for a sophomore season. The 8-episode count could continue with James Gunn effectively making this the definitive episode count for most, if not all DCU shows (save for creature commandos, which has been confirmed to be an episode short). This reasoning wouldn’t be out of place to consider, seeing as the MCU seems to have a definite episode count for most of their Disney+ offerings. Having worked in that space, James Gunn has clearly taken some inspiration from there whilst charting the path for DCU.

On the film side of things, the MCU has already set a precedent with 3 films per year; with their shows seemingly following a similar pattern. If DCU hopes to keep up with the competition, a multi-film and series release could be in the cards — with a 2-film & series per year plan [seemingly] confirmed. Though the first 1-2 years might be something of a slow start for the franchise, but with things sure to pick up, eventually.

In examining the DCU, it will be proven that the possibilities are endless (as is usually the case with the birth of a franchise), but it then remains to be seen if the DCU will live up to its hype and if James Gunn can indeed restore DC’s cinematic glory.