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In an interview with The Wall Street Journal (via Collider), Geoff Johns revealed adjustments made to the DCEU following BvS‘ polarity. The most prominent changes will be visible in Justice League, as getting to the hope and optimism of DC is being fast-tracked. Bringing the movie universe “into the light” seems similar to the push Johns made for the publisher’s Rebirth initiative.
“Mistakenly in the past I think the studio has said, ‘Oh, DC films are gritty and dark and that’s what makes them different.’ That couldn’t be more wrong. It’s a hopeful and optimistic view of life. Even Batman has a glimmer of that in him. If he didn’t think he’d make tomorrow better, he’d stop.”
Geoff Johns ladies and gentlemen. On a serious note, he’s absolutely right. Of course, he is. That glimmer of hope and optimism within Batman is what’s going to drive the character forward in Justice League. Those same aspects will derive from Superman’s sacrifice, which will in turn inspire change in the Dark Knight. As such, the Bat’s brutality and attempts to kill the Man of Steel will get addressed.
Additionally, Zack Snyder’s “controversial flourishes” won’t be as frequent. One example of this is found in Batman v Superman’s apocalyptic Knightmare sequence. Less of that is will allow the core plot to take much more precedence.
Some of these changes were evident in the SDCC Justice League teaser. While we weren’t shown much, it was more than enough to get across the adjustments in tone.
However, many fans would contend alterations aren’t necessary; though critical reception and the general audience’s opinions on BvS suggest otherwise. Suicide Squad’s overall tone was a reflection of these changes, but reports of studio interference implies they weren’t well managed. With Justice League being produced, largely, from the ground up with these thoughts at the fore, hopes are high the DCEU finds its footing.
Image: Warner Bros.
