James Gunn may have wanted The Batman in the DCU, but it was Matt Reeves’ choice to keep it separate

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James Gunn initially had plans to include Robert Pattinson’s Batman in the DCU. According to Gunn, it was director Matt Reeves’ choice to keep his film separate from the main DC universe. Reeves’ The Batman universe was then made a part of the Elseworlds franchise. The director looks to expand this universe with a sequel and several spinoff projects.

James Gunn on the sets of The Suicide Squad

DCU announced its Batman movie, The Brave and the Bold, as part of its first chapter, Gods and Monsters. The Flash director Andy Muschietti is attached to helm the film, but James Gunn has yet to finalize his Batman actor.

James Gunn Reveals Matt Reeves’ Choice To Keep The Batman Out Of DCU

Robert Pattinson and Matt Reeves on the set of The Batman

Many fans have wondered why James Gunn didn’t include Robert Pattinson’s successful portrayal of Batman in the DCU. One Threads user asked the question directly to The Suicide Squad director, framing it as why Matt Reeves’ The Batman isn’t “allowed” to exist within the DCU. In his response, Gunn made it clear that it isn’t as if he did not allow The Batman in the DCU; rather, it was Reeves’ choice to keep it separate.

Gunn also added that they respected Reeves’ decision and set the film in the Elseworlds franchise. Another fan had a follow-up question about The Batman Part II, to which the Peacemaker creator responded that he had heard a pitch from Reeves, but a script was not ready yet.

Following the success of The Batman, Reeves had bigger plans for the world of the caped crusader. While Pattinson will return for the sequel, another actor is also set to return for a TV spin-off. Colin Farrell, who played Penguin in the film, impressed many with his unrecognizable look and performance. He will reprise the role for the Max series Penguin next year.

It is also reported that Reeves is planning for two more series in The Batman universe. One will focus on the infamous Arkham Asylum, while the other will be about the Gotham City Police Department.

Matt Reeves’ The Batman Was Almost Part Of DCEU

Robert Pattinson in The Batman

The Batman was initially intended to be a part of the DCEU, with Ben Affleck initially attached as the director, producer, co-writer, and lead star. The film had connections to the earlier universe, however, Affleck eventually dropped out of the project. When Matt Reeves took over, he decided to make it a standalone movie and removed the DCEU connections.

The Batman explores the story of a young Bruce Wayne in the early stages of his crime-fighting journey. The main antagonist in this film is The Riddler, portrayed by Paul Dano. There are reports suggesting that Hush and Clayface are the top villain choices for the sequel. The sequel will also reportedly feature Dick Grayson, aka Robin.

Also Read: Brad Pitt is The Flash, Joins James Gunn’s DC Universe as One of the Original Speedsters Who Predates Barry Allen in New Art

The Batman is now available for streaming on Max. The Batman Part II is scheduled to be released on October 2, 2025.