As Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom gets ready to hit theaters, fans are taking time to reflect on the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) and its legacy. The highly anticipated sequel will mark the end of an era for the cinematic universe that began with Zack Snyder’s Man of Steel in 2013.
The DCEU underwent numerous changes and shifts over the years, with the recent takeover by James Gunn and Peter Safran as co-CEOs signaling a new direction for DC’s iconic heroes. This change in leadership has left fans divided on whether it will benefit the franchise or not.
For some fans, the end of the DCEU marks a bittersweet moment. Twitter user @nightwaynes expressed nostalgic sentiments, saying, “Feels unreal that the DCEU finally comes to an end this week…through every high & low I’ll forever love everything it created & it will always have a special place in my heart.” However, others, like The Hollywood Reporter’s Borys Kit, are describing the conclusion of the DCEU as “not with a bang but a whimper.”
Following the release of Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, the DCEU will have amassed a total of 15 films (or 16 if you count Snyder’s cut of Justice League). Despite the mixed reception to some of the films, fans are hopeful to see some of the actors and characters return in some form.
Some fans have placed blame for the downfall of the DCEU on different factors. @SupermanEnjoyer argued, “The issue was simply bad movies,” while @ramiimad8 suggested that the decision to fire Zack Snyder played a significant role in the franchise’s ultimate direction.
With Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom serving as the final chapter in the DCEU, fans and industry professionals alike are ready to see what the new DCU has to offer. As the DCEU era comes to a close, many are eager to see what the future holds for their favorite DC superheroes.