A new DCU Batman revealed in James Gunn's crew of creatures

Whenever Batman isn't in any DC movie or show, all the other characters should be asking, “Where's Batman?” Classic scene from “The Simpsons” proved prophetic for many fans watching The Penguin, the series set in Matt Reeves' Batman standalone… mainly because never once showed Robert Pattinson's Batman (for good reasonas it turns out). Regardless, fans are in for a very different debut for Gotham's Dark Knight. With James Gunn developing his new tight-knit DC universe, it's only been a matter of time before the most popular masked vigilante hits the big screen again.

However, that moment came a little sooner — and in a completely different medium — than most viewers would have expected. Those who have followed HBO Creature Commandos is the animated sequel to the 2021 TV series The Suicide Squad. a very pleasant surprise awaited in the latest episode. While the story primarily revolves around DC's rogues gallery led by the horribly charming Weasel and his motley crew of renegades, the show's writing team found the opportunity to hint at the wider franchise that encompasses these characters. In the process, they've given us our first official look at the new DC Universe Batman. In episode 6, titled “Priyatel Skelet,” a series of flashbacks show scientist Alexander Sartorius transforming into the radioactive Doctor Phosphorus (Alan Tudyk). The tragic story ends with the villain captured by none other than Batman.

According to Gunn, the episode was one he did not take lightly.

OK, let's raise a hand: Of all the places where James Gunn's new take on Batman was first shown, which one topped the list for Creature Commandos? Although natural landings could have included an episode the upcoming “Superman” movie. or of course his lead role in the film “The Brave and the Bold” planned by director Andy Muschietti.The Caped Crusader rocked the gun a bit when he appeared in the animated HBO series. In a video posted by Rotten tomatoesboth Gunn and “Creature Commandos” showrunner/executive producer Dean Lowry explained the process behind this decision.

Confirming that this is indeed our first look at Batman in the DCU, Gunn went on to explain how the scene ended up being quite a bit less than its original concept:

“When they first handed me (the series), we saw a lot more Batman. And I said, 'I'm not ready to commit to that, I'm not ready to commit to that, I'm not ready to commit to that.' So I just thought, “More silhouette, more silhouette, more silhouette.” I think it's a great way to show that Batman exists, he already exists in this universe. Like when we get to the movie 'Superman' we see that Superman already exists and we already know him without having to hear the[Batman's]origin story again. It's just a way of introducing that Batman is a part of this universe, he's an important part of this universe and he has influence. on it.”

Although we expect many to revolt that we have yet to be robbed another sand alley scene that ends with the traumatic murder of Bruce Wayne's beloved parents for the millionth time in live action, we'll just have to trust that Gunn knows what he's doing here. While we wait for news on The Brave and the Bold, Superman hits theaters on July 11, 2025.