Fans are buzzing over the latest Batman rumor in the DC Universe.
Let’s set the record straight: we’re still a ways off from Batman making his debut in the DC Universe with the upcoming film, The Brave and the Bold. Before that can happen, studio co-CEO James Gunn wants to shine a light on the non-DCU sequel, The Batman Part II, which hasn’t even begun filming yet. So, for now, everything surrounding The Brave and the Bold is largely speculative. However, that hasn’t stopped fans of superhero films from expressing their frustration over the latest buzz regarding the project — and in this case, they might have a valid point.
Entertainment industry insider Jeff Sneider recently reported that Christina Hodson has been chosen to pen the script for The Brave and the Bold. For those who may not know, Hodson’s previous work includes DCEU titles like Birds of Prey (which many consider an underrated flop), The Flash (often criticized as a chaotic mess), and the unreleased Batgirl. She also wrote the fairly well-received Transformers spinoff, Bumblebee. Overall, her track record is mixed at best, and it doesn’t exactly instill confidence — especially considering that The Flash’s director, Andy Muschietti, has already been tapped to helm the new Batman film. Yes, the same duo behind a movie that was described as “messy and strange” in various reviews.
When looking at Hodson’s body of work, it feels like she’s more of a journeyman writer, with some uninspired moments. While she has the skills to continue an existing franchise, she often leaves it in a worse state than she found it. Nothing in her filmography suggests she’s the right choice to reboot Batman in the DCU, but I hope she proves me wrong (if these rumors hold any truth).
If you hop onto social media and search for “Hodson” or “Batman” right now, you’ll likely find a wave of frustrated fans voicing their discontent about this news. The general sentiment is clear: why is Gunn giving the team behind The Flash another shot? Honestly, I can’t come up with a solid answer, especially when there are so many talented screenwriters and directors eager to take on projects in the DCU. (Seriously, someone give Sam Raimi a chance, please.)
On the flip side, maybe Gunn genuinely enjoyed The Flash. Back in 2023, when he had just taken the reins as DCU head and the film finally hit theaters after a long development process, he praised it quite highly. At the time, many assumed he was just being diplomatic, but perhaps the director of Superman really did see it as a “magnificent film — fun, funny, and emotional.”
To be clear, everyone is entitled to their opinion, including Gunn. However, in this instance, I find myself aligning with the frustrated fans, and that raises a lot of concerns for me.
