HBO's CEO, Casey Bloys, has shed light on the inner workings of James Gunn's DCU plans, and it seems the studio boss is calling the shots. In an interview with Variety, Bloys revealed that HBO is taking a script-by-script approach to evaluating DC projects, rather than following a grand master plan. This shift in strategy has significant implications for the future of the DCU on HBO, particularly for projects like Waller and Booster Gold.
One of the most notable projects in question is Waller, starring Viola Davis. Bloys' lack of confidence in the show's prospects is evident, as he merely states that it's 'not on the runway.' This suggests that the project may be in jeopardy, especially considering the original announcement in Gunn's 2023 slate. The delay in the series' release and the absence of a specific date further raise concerns about its future.
Lanterns, another DCU project, is also facing uncertainty. Initially set for a summer release, the series has been pushed back, and its future remains unclear. Bloys' admission that HBO is handling marketing and his lack of knowledge about the release of footage indicate that the studio is taking a more hands-on approach, which could impact the project's trajectory.
Peacemaker, a previous DCU series, experienced a significant decline in audience numbers, with a 39% drop from the premiere to the finale. This data suggests that HBO may be reevaluating its strategy for the DCU, as the series' poor performance could indicate a need for a more cautious approach. The cancellation of Booster Gold, as hinted at by the writer's actions, further supports this idea.
The Jimmy Olsen series, which was not part of Gunn's original plan, has now become a focus. This development raises questions about the DCU's direction and the studio's priorities. The lack of a title and the recent name-tossing suggest that the project is still in its early stages, and its inclusion in the DCU may be a strategic move to fill the void left by the stalled live-action projects.
Overall, the DCU's future on HBO appears uncertain. With stalled projects, delayed releases, and a changing strategy, the studio's approach to the DCU is evolving. While Gunn's vision for the DCU may have been ambitious, the reality of its execution on HBO is a different story. The studio's script-by-script evaluation and hands-on marketing approach indicate a more cautious and selective strategy, which could impact the overall success and longevity of the DCU on the platform.
