The revitalized DC Universe presents a unique opportunity to celebrate some lesser-known superhero teams from the comics, especially with James Gunn at the helm. His previous work has showcased his talent for crafting clever scripts and managing ensemble casts filled with quirky figures. This fresh perspective could illuminate numerous DC teams that have yet to appear in live-action adaptations.
Unlike the Marvel Cinematic Universe, which has comfortably introduced several heroic ensembles, DC has traditionally focused on solo heroes, showcasing only the Justice League and the Suicide Squad as significant teams on the big screen. While shows like Titans and Doom Patrol provide glimpses of more obscure characters, the overall landscape has remained dominated by individual-centric narratives. Under Gunn’s leadership, this trend appears to be shifting.
10
The Secret Six
A More Streamlined Suicide Squad
With the success of titles like The Suicide Squad and Creature Commandos, it’s clear that Gunn favors ensembles featuring misfits and anti-heroes. The Secret Six, with their diverse and often shocking lineups, could be a fitting addition to the expanding DCU. This team is known for undertaking dangerous missions where high casualties are expected, similar to the Suicide Squad.
Notable members like Deadshot and Bane often lead the charge, alongside others such as Rag Doll, Catman, Scandal Savage, and Jeannette. These characters allow for an exploration of complex dynamics akin to the Suicide Squad while potentially avoiding overt violence that could alienate audiences. Hints about a possible Bane and Deathstroke film might even pave the way for a Secret Six storyline.
9
Metal Men
A Silver Age Favorite
James Gunn’s vision for the DCU draws heavily on the Golden and Silver Ages of comics, which may allow for the inclusion of the wonderfully eccentric Metal Men. This robotic team, crafted by the genius Dr. Will Magnus, consists of characters named after metal elements from the periodic table, each embodying traits reflective of their materials.
Metal Men provide a unique blend of humor and educational value, making them an intriguing prospect for screen adaptation. If any filmmaker could successfully bring such a whimsical group to life, it’s James Gunn, whose creativity thrives on quirky narratives.
8
Justice League Dark
Exploring the Supernatural
DC’s strength lies not only in its superhero roster but also in its mystical narratives. Justice League Dark consists of characters like Swamp Thing, John Constantine, and Zatanna, who combat supernatural threats. Originally, Guillermo del Toro had plans for a Justice League Dark film that tragically fell through, highlighting the cinematic potential of this team.
Gunn could recognize the value of incorporating Justice League Dark into the DCU, especially since characters like Frankenstein appear in both this team and the Creature Commandos. Such crossovers could elevate the franchise’s narrative complexity while tapping into a darker, more mystical realm.
7
The Outsiders
Batman’s Team of Outcasts
The Outsiders, a team founded by Batman, showcase heroes who operate outside the traditional norms of the Justice League. Featuring characters like Metamorpho and Black Lightning, this group was created during a time of ideological rift within the League, allowing for a narrative exploring themes of teamwork despite diverging philosophies.
An introduction of the Outsiders could occur after the Justice League’s establishment, allowing for a rich backstory founded on Batman’s frustrations with his peers. This team’s dynamic offers a perfect platform for lesser-known heroes to gain recognition and fan appreciation.
6
Legion of Super-Heroes
The Future of Heroism
The Legion of Super-Heroes represents an often-overlooked facet of the DC pantheon. This team operates in the 31st century and often interacts with time-traveling figures like Superman and Supergirl. The varied rosters, including notable names like Brainiac 5 and Saturn Girl, allow for numerous storytelling possibilities.
Given Gunn’s promotional emphasis on a retro-futuristic aesthetic, the Legion aligns well with his vision for the DCU. With a potential connection to the upcoming Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, their emergence in the franchise seems imminent.
5
The Black Lantern Corps
An Undead Team of Villains
To balance the heroic narratives, introducing the Black Lantern Corps could provide a chilling twist. This formidable villain group emerges from the gripping Blackest Night storyline, standing opposed to the diverse emotional representations of other Lanterns. As a terrifying force aimed at annihilating life, they present a dark counterpart to the heroic efforts of the DC Universe.
A cinematic adaptation of the Black Lantern Corps could represent a monumental event within the DCU, echoing the epic scale of Avengers: Endgame in the MCU. James Gunn’s focus on the Green Lantern Corps signifies that the potential for a storyline involving the Black Lantern Corps might be on the horizon.
4
The Terrifics
Bringing Together Familiar Faces
The Terrifics are another example of a team forged by circumstances, brought together by Mister Terrific as they navigate the enigmatic Dark Multiverse. Their journey is rooted in adventure, and with characters like Metamorpho already confirmed for upcoming projects, introducing the rest of the team—including Phantom Girl and Plastic Man—could unfold quickly.
This team dynamic offers a wealth of narrative opportunities that could engage audiences with a blend of exploration and character development, making a potential Terrifics film a worthwhile venture in the DCU.
3
The Outlaws
A Gritty Band of Teen Vigilantes
If Gunn seeks to introduce a more edgier tone, The Outlaws provide an excellent contrast to the increasingly wholesome teams like The Metal Men or The Terrifics. This formidable group is led by Red Hood (Jason Todd), a resurrected former Robin who adopts a lethal approach to crime-fighting, complemented by allies such as Starfire, Arsenal, and Artemis.
With the Suicide Squad currently inactive, The Outlaws may emerge as a new, darker ensemble suitable for a more mature audience. If Jason Todd’s backstory is already in development within a Batman film, establishing this team could be more seamless than anticipated, providing thrilling confrontations with Gotham’s criminal underbelly.
2
Young Justice
A Team with Enduring Popularity
Although the animated series Young Justice has garnered a dedicated fanbase, the team has yet to make its presence felt in live-action adaptations. Initially created to fill the ranks of adolescent heroes following the original Teen Titans, the group includes characters such as Robin, Superboy, and Impulse.
Young Justice offers rich storytelling potential, addressing the challenges of reconciling superhero responsibilities with teenage dilemmas. Although the Teen Titans are more mainstream, a live-action Young Justice could cultivate a loyal following and resonate deeply with younger audiences navigating similar life struggles.
1
The Freedom Fighters
An Intriguing Throwback
James Gunn has a knack for reviving offbeat comic book characters, and the Freedom Fighters could deliver a uniquely unconventional narrative. Rooted in DC’s history as a wartime propaganda tool, this team exists in the alternate dimension of Earth-X, where they fight back against totalitarian rule.
Featuring characters designed to evoke patriotism, like Uncle Sam, the Freedom Fighters challenge the notions of traditional heroism, portraying themselves as guerrilla fighters against oppression. Their distinctive and audacious concept could resonate perfectly with Gunn’s eclectic storytelling style within the DCU.