DC has faced challenges at the box office, especially when compared to the dominant Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Led by Warner Bros’ leadership, DC has tried to compete with Marvel in different ways.
They’ve made standalone Elseworld films like Joker (2019) and The Batman (2022), while also attempting to create their interconnected film universe called the DCEU (DC Extended Universe). However, the DCEU hasn’t achieved the same level of success as the MCU.
To address this, producer Peter Safran and Guardians of the Galaxy director James Gunn were brought in to co-lead the newly established DC Studios. Despite these efforts, the DCEU’s performance falls behind not only the MCU but also anime franchises like Dragon Ball and Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba. Surprisingly, even a classic Cartoon Network animated show surpasses James Gunn’s DCU in total revenue.
A Boy with 10 Alien Forms Outshines the Entire DC Extended Universe
The series we’re talking about is none other than Cartoon Network’s beloved animated show that captured the hearts of many during their childhood. Yes, it’s Ben 10.
Ben 10 is an American media franchise created by Man of Action!, produced by Cartoon Network Studios, and owned by Warner Bros. Discovery.
The story centers around a young boy named Ben Tennyson, who stumbles upon the Omnitrix, a powerful extraterrestrial device that looks like a wristwatch. This incredible gadget contains the DNA of various alien species, allowing Ben to transform into them whenever he wants. Initially, the Omnitrix has ten alien forms, but as the series progresses, Ben gains the ability to unlock more species.
Remarkably, this animated series from 2005 has generated a whopping $7.85 billion in revenue, surpassing the earnings of the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) at $7.76 billion.
James Gunn’s Plan for Higher Revenue of The DCEU
James Gunn, in a YouTube video for DC, shared his plan for the future of the DC Universe (DCU). He acknowledged past mistakes by DC and aimed to correct them. Gunn intends to introduce new characters and create a storyline that connects all DC projects. He also mentioned that actors playing superheroes will have long-term contracts, spanning 10 years.
Gunn revealed a roadmap for upcoming DC movies and shows, emphasizing a more faithful adaptation of the comics. Some of the upcoming movies on James Gunn’s list include Superman Legacy (2024), The Authority (2026), Batman: Brave and the Bold (TBA), Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow (TBA), and Swamp Thing (TBA). The list also includes TV series like Creature Commandoes (2024), Waller (2025), Lanterns (2024), Paradise Lost (TBA), and Booster Gold (TBA).
The goal is to appeal to both DC fans and newcomers. It remains to be seen if Gunn’s vision for the DCEU will lead to higher revenue, possibly surpassing anime franchises or popular Cartoon Network series like Ben 10.
