DCU Chapter One: 6 DC films we need to see from James Gunn

LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 22: A Superman costume from the 2013 Man of Steel film worn by Henry Cavill and designed by Michael Wilkinson and James Acheson is on display at the DC Comics Exhibition: Dawn Of Super Heroes at the O2 Arena on February 22, 2018 in London, England. The exhibition, which opens on February 23rd, features 45 original costumes, models and props used in DC Comics productions including the Batman, Wonder Woman and Superman films. (Photo by Jack Taylor/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 22: A Superman costume from the 2013 Man of Steel film worn by Henry Cavill and designed by Michael Wilkinson and James Acheson is on display at the DC Comics Exhibition: Dawn Of Super Heroes at the O2 Arena on February 22, 2018 in London, England. The exhibition, which opens on February 23rd, features 45 original costumes, models and props used in DC Comics productions including the Batman, Wonder Woman and Superman films. (Photo by Jack Taylor/Getty Images) /
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Supergirl — “Crisis on Infinite Earths: Part One” — Image Number: SPG509c_0046r.jpg — Pictured: Stephen Amell as Oliver Queen/Green Arrow — Photo: Dean Buscher/The CW — © 2019 The CW Network, LLC. All Rights Reserved. /

A grounded Green Arrow film should follow Superman

Now that Arrow is over, it’s time for a live-action Green Arrow film. The Emerald Archer, Green Arrow has a rich history and a dedicated fanbase thanks to both his comics storylines and The CW’s Arrow.

A Green Arrow film can further expand Gunn’s universe as it would take place in Star City. Like Gotham and Metropolis, Star City can feel like a universe all of its own, considering how Green Arrow dives into politics, in a way that differs from Batman. While we don’t need a Superman or Batman origin story, we should get one from Green Arrow, and one of the best stories to adapt is Green Arrow: Year One.

The comic book series was written by Andy Diggle and illustrated by Jock, and it tells the origin story of Oliver Queen’s journey to becoming the politically savvy bow-wielder. Whoever Gunn and Safran choose as a director should go low budget for the potential film for two reasons. One, it would be a nice contrast to Superman which will likely be a blockbuster. Secondly, the story should focus more on the character.

Year One is set in a gritty and realistic environment, which would make for a visually striking film. Most of the setting takes place on a deserted island, where Oliver must fend off drug runners while learning to survive and master the art of archery. What makes the story great is the relevant and timely themes such as social justice, political corruption, and the cost of being a hero. All of those elements add depth and complexity to the story, making it more than just a traditional superhero film.

To help connect and expand the universe, the film could reintroduce Dinah Lance, who would later become Black Canary. Her inclusion in the story would provide an opportunity to bring back Jurnee Smollett (Birds of Prey), bridging together Gunn’s DCU and the old DCEU. Yes, it can happen thanks to The Flash.