James Gunn Prioritizes Quality Over Speed In DC Studios Filmmaking

February 25, 2025: DC Studios CEO James Gunn has emphasized that the studio’s focus will always be on delivering high-quality content rather than rushing projects into production. In a recent statement, Gunn made it clear that he would prefer to quit than to churn out films and series that don’t meet his high creative standards.

Along with DC Studios co-CEO Peter Safran, Gunn addressed concerns about the studio potentially becoming a “movie machine,” focusing on quantity over quality. Gunn expressed, “I’d quit. I’m being serious! I’m not going to do this unless I think we’re doing good stuff that’s cool, that works.” He went on to clarify that he wasn’t planning on leaving, but he was adamant about the importance of producing work that meets his standards.

Safran echoed Gunn’s sentiment, reinforcing that their approach to filmmaking is deliberate and not rushed. He highlighted that there is no external pressure to increase output, emphasizing that they are focused on creating exceptional stories rather than producing multiple projects in quick succession. “We’re very deliberate in our output. We’re not looking to make five movies a year and five series,” Safran explained. “We’re really focused on telling great versions of the stories we want to tell.”

Gunn has frequently reiterated that he will not begin production on a project until the script is fully ready. This marks a sharp contrast to the more rapid pace seen in other studios.

Since taking the helm of DC Studios in November 2022, Gunn and Safran have made it clear that they are committed to revitalizing the studio and its superhero franchises. Under their leadership, DC Studios plans to release two live-action films, one animated film, and a mix of live-action and animated series annually. The first major film to launch this new era of the DC Universe is Superman: Legacy, directed by Gunn. The movie, slated for release on July 11, 2025, will star David Corenswet as Clark Kent/Superman, alongside a talented ensemble cast.

Gunn’s priority of quality filmmaking promises to shape the future of DC Studios as they aim to create a more thoughtful and engaging superhero universe for fans.