Rumors suggest a potential revival of the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) under the direction of Zack Snyder, following a significant studio update. This speculation arises after reports indicate that Netflix is exploring opportunities to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery. If this acquisition occurs, it could pave the way for Snyder’s vision to return to the forefront of the franchise.
Zack Snyder was instrumental in shaping the DCEU, casting key stars and directing major films such as Man of Steel and Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. Despite the divisive reactions to his work, Snyder has maintained a dedicated fanbase. His departure from the franchise in 2017, when Joss Whedon took over for Justice League, marked a turning point. The release of Zack Snyder’s Justice League on HBO Max in 2021, driven by fan demand, reignited interest in Snyder’s original plans for the franchise.
Recent developments suggest that Snyder’s universe might not be entirely buried. Reports from Bloomberg indicate that both Netflix and Comcast are interested in acquiring Warner Bros. Discovery. Should Netflix successfully purchase Warner Bros., it would gain access to the DCEU’s extensive film and television properties. This scenario opens the door for Snyder’s vision to potentially return to life on the streaming platform.
In early 2024, Scott Stuber, Netflix’s former head of Films, addressed the possibility of reviving Snyder’s DC universe. He acknowledged the complexities involved, stating, “That’s always tricky because you don’t own it.” Stuber pointed out that Netflix has expressed interest in licensing the Snyderverse, highlighting the platform’s enthusiasm for collaborating with Snyder, saying, “The more Zack we have, the better we are.” This indicates that if Netflix were to hold the rights to DC properties, a revival could be feasible.
The potential coexistence of Snyder’s vision and the new direction spearheaded by James Gunn and Peter Safran offers an intriguing perspective. Gunn’s ambitious 10-year plan for the DCEU could run parallel to Snyder’s projects. Snyder himself has previously suggested that he would be open to completing his Justice League trilogy through animation, a format that could allow both universes to thrive independently.
An animated continuation of the Snyderverse could appeal to fans eager for closure while allowing Gunn to develop the new DC Universe without conflict. Given the success of standalone animated films from DC, this approach could satisfy both longtime fans of Snyder and newcomers engaging with Gunn’s vision.
As developments unfold, the prospect of Snyder’s return to the DC fold remains uncertain but increasingly plausible. The future of the DCEU may hinge on corporate decisions, but for fans, the prospect of the Snyderverse’s revival offers a glimmer of hope. The outcome of Netflix’s acquisition efforts and subsequent decisions regarding the DCEU will significantly shape the franchise’s trajectory moving forward.
