DCU Batman Movie Should Take Inspiration From These 8 Comics for a Bolder Gotham
A More Superheroic Batman
The future of The Brave and the Bold is unclear after reported changes at DC Studios. The project was initially associated with a comic featuring Damian Wayne, but the story says it may now be substantially different or may no longer use that title.
The article argues that the DCU’s Batman should take a different approach from the grounded style of The Batman. A more superheroic setting, it says, would fit a universe that includes Superman, Supergirl and Clayface.
Monsters and Gotham Mysteries
Batman: Reptilian, a six-issue series from 2021, follows Batman as he pursues a mysterious monster killing people across Gotham City. Its victims include high-ranking figures in the criminal underworld.
The story could bring a more fantastical element to the film while preserving Batman’s detective role. The monster’s identity remains a mystery for much of the comic.
Gordon and the Bat-Family
Batman: The Black Mirror offers another possible direction, centering on an investigation by Batman and Gotham City Police Commissioner James Gordon. They look into an underground black-market auction involving Gordon’s son, James Gordon Jr.
The comic’s Batman is Dick Grayson, but the article says a film could use Bruce Wayne instead. It also describes the story as both a 2011 title and a 2024 book, giving conflicting years.
Damian Wayne and Ra’s al Ghul
Batman and Robin, a 2009 comic, may still inform The Brave and the Bold, despite changes to the project since James Gunn first announced it. Its prominent feature is Damian Wayne, Batman’s biological son, as Robin.
The article also points to Batman: Birth of the Demon, a 1993 one-shot focused on Ra’s al Ghul’s origins and backstory. It suggests the character could suit the DCU through his grounded nature and mystical ties to the Lazarus Pit.
Key points
- The Brave and the Bold’s direction and even its title may have changed.
- Batman: Reptilian pairs a monster hunt with Batman’s detective work.
- The Black Mirror places James Gordon and his son at the center of an investigation.
- Batman and Robin and Birth of the Demon offer material about Damian Wayne and Ra’s al Ghul.