Nearly three years after DC Studios unveiled its Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters slate, the search for the DC Universe’s definitive Batman remains unresolved. James Gunn Brave Bold project updates have been clouded by delays, with the studio yet to announce the Dark Knight who will anchor their next phase. While Matt Reeves’ The Batman Part II is finally entering production later this year, it takes place in a separate continuity and won’t be linked to the wider DCU stories involving characters like Superman and Clayface.
Current Status of The Brave and the Bold Production
James Gunn has openly acknowledged the challenges of defining the DCU’s Batman, especially when compared to the success of Reeves’ acclaimed Batman films. Andy Muschietti is still attached to direct The Brave and the Bold, with a script reportedly in development by an anonymous writer. Earlier this week, speculation grew as Dread Central claimed the screenplay was completed and Warner Bros. eyed a 2028 release date for the film. However, James Gunn quickly dispelled these rumors on Threads, stating, “Fiction, sorry. Screenplay isn’t finished.”
James Gunn Responds to Speculation and Fan Questions
Gunn has been selective about responding to industry rumors. While he has remained quiet on Wonder Woman gossip, he addressed misinformation about The Batman Part II having a test screening last year by saying,
“That would be strange since the movie hasn’t started production.”
This level of oversight highlights the cautious approach DC Studios is taking in shaping its Batman narrative, despite fan impatience. It remains unclear when The Brave and the Bold will begin filming or when it will be released, fueling frustration among followers eager for new stories about the Caped Crusader.
Director Involvement and Casting Insight
Andy Muschietti’s continued role in rebooting Batman has divided audience opinion, particularly after the controversial reception of The Flash in 2023. James Gunn has hinted at his casting preferences without confirming any actors, revealing,
“Do I have ideas about actors who could play Batman? Absolutely, I do,”
and,
“I have guys I like. I have guys that are top of the list for me, just like I had people that were at the top of the list for Superman.”
However, Gunn cautioned that extensive screen tests and a finalized script are necessary before making any decisions:
“People can guess and maybe they’ll be right about certain things. We’d have to screen test, we’d have to do the whole thing,”
and
“The script isn’t done. I mean, we’ve got somebody writing a script, I think it’s really good.”
Industry Rumors and Official Statements
Dread Central’s report suggesting the screenplay’s completion and a 2028 release plan gained notable attention. The outlet emphasized that The Brave and the Bold would be separate from Matt Reeves’ Batman films featuring Robert Pattinson. Despite this, no official confirmation has been provided from DC Studios or Warner Bros. regarding a fixed date. As the studio continues to refine the DCU’s direction, fan eagerness for clarity grows.
What Lies Ahead for the DC Universe’s Batman
The slow progress on The Brave and the Bold demonstrates the difficulties DC Studios faces in rebooting such an iconic character while managing multiple projects in its cinematic universe. Although the current approach reflects a desire to get the story right, the delay risks further frustrating fans, especially as other related films like Wonder Woman’s sixth installment appear closer to release. James Gunn’s involvement and insights suggest the studio remains committed to a thoughtful reboot but acknowledges that patience will be needed before the Caped Crusader returns to the big screen under the new DCU banner.
Hearing the screenplay is finished for Andy Muschietti's new Batman film BRAVE AND THE BOLD, and that Warner Bros. is looking at a 2028 release [Dread Exclusive].
As previously explained, it will not connected to Robert Pattinson’s The Batman films directed by Matt Reeves.… pic.twitter.com/rhz5dTfzCP
— Dread Central (@DreadCentral) January 15, 2026
Hearing the screenplay is finished for Andy Muschietti's new Batman film BRAVE AND THE BOLD, and that Warner Bros. is looking at a 2028 release [Dread Exclusive].
As previously explained, it will not connected to Robert Pattinson’s The Batman films directed by Matt Reeves.… pic.twitter.com/rhz5dTfzCP
— Dread Central (@DreadCentral) January 15, 2026
