Gunn wants Harley Quinn and Margot Robbie in the DCU
The Canon Conundrum: Unpacking James Gunn’s Vision for the DC Universe
When James Gunn first confirmed that The Suicide Squad is part of the DC Universe, it sent ripples through the entertainment world. But beyond the simple declaration of canon status, Gunn is grappling with the deeper, more complex task of building a cohesive DC story—a task that inevitably leads to some wonderfully thorny questions about beloved characters.
One of the most pressing dilemmas revolves around Harley Quinn. Margot Robbie, who has brought the chaotic energy of the character to life across multiple adaptations, is on the chopping block for a potential return. Gunn, known for his bold and boundary-pushing vision, has shown a willingness to bend rules, suggesting that if Robbie desires to reprise the role, he will happily adjust the narrative to accommodate her desires.
However, this creative freedom comes with a caveat. For Gunn to integrate Harley Quinn fully into the DCU, he faces a significant hurdle: establishing the backstory of her most infamous partner, the Joker. As Gunn noted in recent interviews, the relationship between Harley and the Joker is central to her character, yet the DCU has yet to fully define this villain. It is a fascinating puzzle for a filmmaker to solidify an entire universe when one of its core elements remains an open mystery.
The structure of the DCU already provides a foundation of canon. We have established elements like Superman and the ongoing narrative of Peacemaker season 2, which takes place after the events of The Suicide Squad. This existing framework gives Gunn a rich landscape to explore for future installments.
Meanwhile, the search for the live-action Bat is reportedly underway, with Gunn indicating that Batman will be cast soon, likely around the same age as Superman. This means that as the DCU expands, the possibility of major figures like the Joker or Harley Quinn making their debut in live-action cinema looms large.
The next major chapter in this unfolding narrative is slated for release in 2027 with Man of Tomorrow, promising further exploration of the world Gunn is constructing. As DC Studios continues to weave these threads together, the universe promises not just action, but a deep dive into the complicated, often chaotic, history of its heroes and villains.
Buy on Amazon
Credit
