The Pressure on James Gunn’s Superman movie

It’s common news at this point that DC is rebooting its not-so impressive cinematic universe. With the official start of the DCU beginning with Superman in Superman.

Thus the DCEU becoming DCU, with Co-heads, James Gunn and Peter Safran at the helm of affairs.

Though we also know an apperitif/appetiser is coming in the form of Creature Commandos.

For ten years, the DC cinematic universe struggled with an identity crisis and in turn struggled to keep pace with other ambitious cinematic universes like it. Especially the MCU, who in the same time frame managed to gain global recognition and respect.

The likes of which have yet to be attained by any other cinematic universe whether in existence or obsolete.

Although recent times haven’t been kind to the stellar reputation of the MCU. Certainly, the DCU could capitalise the MCU’s recent downturn.

But even that seems unlikely, which why Superman will have to be nothing short of superb when it opens in cinemas. As 2023 already evidenced a huge downturn in DC’s cinematic credibility.

Therefore, Superman has a lot of convincing to do. If it is to be the project that reignites public interest in what the blue brand has to offer.

How the Pressure of Superman Compares to Avengers: Endgame

As to how it’s pressure compares to Avengers: Endgame. Back in 2019, it was clear that the ten-year journey of the Infinity Saga was coming to an end. And with so much careful worldbuilding and hype riding on the back of Avengers: Endgame. It was in a curious position where it could either make or break the franchise.

But even if it had crumbled under the franchise’s weight. The MCU by virtue of their previous track record could have dusted itself off and gotten back on its feet.

However, by virtue of the previous track record of the DCEU. If Superman flops both critically and commercially. It may very spell the end for any hopes of a shared universe for DC. As Warner Bros. Discovery may be forced to simply release a Superman and/or Batman movie every few years.

Since they are proven hits individually. But at this point, any thoughts of an epic crossover would’ve been squashed. If James Gunn’s Superman fails.
But the Man of Steel has time and again made it out of more dire situations.

So can Superman rise to the occasion of safeguarding the cinematic future of the DCU?.

We’ll have to wait and see.

Superman opens in cinemas July 11, 2025.