Everything New and Awesome From DC FanDome: The Batman, Wonder Woman 1984 and More
This past weekend DC Comics held it's first-ever DC FanDome. It was 24-hours worth of content about everything from comics, to movies, video games, and the history of the legendary publisher. In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, all sectors of the entertainment industry have been affected. With no Comic-con San Diego, many fans were left with a void of what to expect from the big names like Marvel and DC Comics. Thanks to the DC FanDome event, fans of DC Comics have plenty to look forward to over the next few years. Here is a list of some of the biggest announcements out of the DC FanDome.
Wonder Woman 1984 New Trailer
For some people, Wonder Woman was the mark of a big change at DC Comics and Warner Brothers when it came to the movies. After a disappointing Justice League, it was a breath of fresh air to see a DC movie with a bit more color in it. Gal Gadot's Wonder Woman was also the first female-led superhero movie. In the new trailer, we get to see a bit more exchanges between Diana and Steve Trevor, but it's unclear what's brought him back from the dead. We also a much clearer look at one of the film's antagonists, the Cheetah. The biggest surprise to fans though is Diana's golden-winged armor.
The Suicide Squad...Again
A lot of DC Comics and Marvel fans alike have eagerly been awaiting a clearer look at the James Gunn led Suicide Squad. The original movie starring Will Smith, Margot Robbie and Jared Leto left a lot to be desired from fans. When we got wind that James Gunn would be leading a second Suicide Squad, it got people excited. We've heard for months now rumors of what characters would be a part of the massive cast of characters. James Gunn answered everyone's prayers with a cast and character reveal trailer. In that trailer, we find out the characters who are being played by everyone including; Idris Elba, Nathan Fillion, and John Cena.
Justice League: The Snyder Cut
Perhaps one of the biggest surprises of the DC FanDome was Zack Snyder's cut of Justice League. It's not a surprise that we got a full trailer for it, but that it looks like an entirely different movie. I'm starting to think that we should stop responding to it as simply a director's cut and just call it a whole new movie. Snyder has said that the run-time of the film for HBO Max would be around 4 hours long and would likely be released in four separate parts. The trailer features tons of new scenes that may actually be held to build out the much needed emotional impact of the film. Only time will tell, but I'll remain cautiously pessimistic and believe it when I see it.
The New Batman
DC FanDome was filled with a lot of surprises and this one is no different. Matt Reeves The Batman starring Robert Pattinson has drawn plenty of criticisms. From the Twilight Alumni's casting to why make another Batman when you still have Batfleck in the Justice League. Fans continue to scratch their heads when told this movie won't be canon to the extended DC Cinematic Universe, similar to the Joker. Despite only having filmed 25% of the film, director Matt Reeves had a trailer for this movie as well. It has hints of Nolan's more down to earth take on the Dark Knight. It also gives off some Netflix Daredevil style vibes as it seems to explore the very early years of the caped crusader. One thing is for certain, we owe Robert Pattinson a collective apology.
The Suicide Squad Game
Rocksteady Studios, the developers behind the Batman Arkham games teased this game a few weeks ago. They released an image of Superman with the Suicide Squad crosshairs logo over his head. As it turns out the subtitle of the game is Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League. The game likely takes inspiration from the Rebirth Era Justice League v Suicide Squad where the Justice League was turned evil by the Eclipso Diamond. Players will be taking on the role of Harley Quinn, Captain Boomerang, King Shark, and Deadshot to fight back against the evil Justice League and save the day. Developers have said it would be 1-4 Player Co-op and allow for switching between the squad members mid-combat if you're not playing with other players.
Welcome to the Bat Family
Finally, the last big announcement out of the DC FanDome is another video game, Gotham Knights. This one seems to be a successor to the Batman Arkham games, but developers have said it's not set in the same world. In this game, the trailer starts by explaining that Batman has died. The players must then take up the responsibilities of the Batman and protect Gotham City as his four young disciples; Nightwing, Robin, Batgirl, and the Red Hood. A lot of the game-play mechanics seem to be evolved from the Arkham series. Missions include being able to team up with the other members of the bat family and perform combo moves together. The game will also include the famous Court of Owl's storyline in some way.
That's Not All...
There was over 24 hours worth of streams, panels, and announcements. Other big reveals, which didn't come with any trailers included details on Shazam 2: Fury of the Gods. Ezra Miller talked about the upcoming Flash movie and how it would introduce the multiverse to the DC cinematic universe. Aquaman 2 will apparently be taking on a bit more of a serious tone. Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson had a panel talking about the upcoming Black Adam movie which will also feature the introduction of the Justice Society of America. The JSA line-up is set to feature Hawkman, Cyclone, Atom Smasher, and Dr. Fate. Plus, Static Shock will finally be returning to print and is also in development for a feature film.
For more on all things comics, check out our podcast The Other Identity with Robbie Landis and Ben Morse, formerly of Marvel.