The more recently built DCU is going strong with the addition of many interesting characters, with James Gunn bagging a major win with Superman, redirecting the franchise on a path never seen before. It is a sharp contrast with the DCEU, which delivered some successful movies and iconic characters, but remained largely in the shadow of Kevin Feige’s MCU.
Now, the DC Universe seems to resemble the Marvel Cinematic Universe more than its own predecessor. This also has to do with Gunn, who extensively worked with Marvel Studios, heading the new direction of the DCU. Given Marvel’s appeal over the years, this might just be what fans were looking for. Here are a few ways the MCU is similar to the DCU.
How James Gunn’s DCU is similar to MCU
A plethora of heroes already exist
From Peacemaker to Batman, even though there is only one solid DCU movie, there are numerous active DC superheroes. Some were part of Superman, like Green Lantern and Hawkgirl, while others were either mentioned or established in previous shows like Creature Commandos and Peacemaker Season 1.
This is quite similar to Marvel, which always had a lore of established superheroes, giving them the chance to converge and make a project like the Avengers.
Multiverse is in play
Marvel entered this zone later, as DC already had the concept of pocket dimensions and parallel universes. The MCU has dabbled in the multiverse often and, as hinted by the newer films, it will continue to be a key part of the narrative. However, the DCU has recently started incorporating that, so their future projects will likely continue to keep it as an active part.
Projects have a lighter or comedic tone
A huge difference that gave Marvel an early boost was its frequent use of humor to keep things light. This made the TV shows and movies more appealing to viewers. Now, the DCU also seems to be leaning into this approach. Superman was fairly funny, so were Peacemaker and Creature Commandos. So, Gunn’s approach comes with a blend of comedy and action.
Long-term plans with multiple movies and shows
Another way the MCU and DCU are similar is that both have long-term plans. Marvel had planned the new Avengers years back, and recently, Feige said their plans go up to 2032. And now DC also has many shows and movies lined up, which should all come together comprehensively in the future. Gunn reportedly has a 10-year plan for the studio.
Focus on smaller characters
One great thing about both the MCU and DCU is that they have extensively focused on smaller characters from the comics. Marvel focused sufficiently on characters like Valkyrie and Wong, who are relatively minor. DC is also taking a similar approach now, with characters like Adrian Chase getting the limelight.
Hence, James Gunn’s DC Universe (DCU) and Kevin Feige’s Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) are similar in many ways, and it is something fans should be excited about.
