‘The Brave and the Bold’ Reportedly Eyeing a Production Start for the DCU’s Batman

Batman remains the biggest missing piece of James Gunn and Peter Safran’s DC Universe. ‘The Brave and the Bold’, first announced in January 2023, is set to introduce the franchise’s own Bruce Wayne alongside his son, Damian Wayne, drawing inspiration from Grant Morrison’s ‘Batman and Son’ comic run.

The project has moved slowly since then. Andy Muschietti, who directed ‘The Flash’, was attached in June 2023, but he later revealed that the film had been postponed, while Gunn has repeatedly said he wasn’t satisfied with the script and wouldn’t rush it.

Now, a fresh report suggests the DCU’s Dark Knight may finally be getting closer. According to insider ApocHorseman, ‘The Brave and the Bold’ is targeting a late 2027 start of principal photography.

That claim has been backed by Cartier Films, which reported that DC Studios is aiming to begin shooting in late 2027. The outlet added that the project is further along than many fans realize, despite Deadline previously describing it as in early development.

According to the report, the studio is being extremely cautious with the character. DC Studios is said to be fully aware of how important Batman is to the overall health of the DCU.

The report also noted that no actors have been cast so far. If production does begin in late 2027, casting could start early next year, turning the search for the new Bruce Wayne into one of the biggest stories in pop culture.

Several names have already been floated online, including Tom Brittney, Mitchell Slaggert and Alan Ritchson. None of those rumors has been confirmed by DC Studios. A separate rumor recently claimed that the DCU’s Batman could be revealed in ‘Man of Tomorrow’. That report suggested Bruce Wayne would appear late in the film to set up ‘The Brave and the Bold’.

It’s still unclear whether Muschietti will direct the film. Cartier Films said it has not heard a recent update on his involvement. Insider Jeff Sneider previously said on ‘The Hot Mic’ podcast that the studio hoped to film in 2027. He also suggested Gunn might direct the project himself, as Muschietti has become highly sought after following the success of ‘It: Welcome to Derry’.

Matt Reeves has shared an all-new camera test for ‘The Batman: Part II.’ The film’s official release date has been moved to February 18, 2028. https://t.co/Eh1ntcUs8A

— Rotten Tomatoes 🍅 (@RottenTomatoes) July 15, 2026

This isn’t the first time a 2027 start has been floated. Earlier this year, reports claimed DC Studios hoped to shoot in 2027, though that depended on finalizing a script after a change in writers.

Gunn has also pushed back on some speculation. He recently debunked a rumor that the film had been put on hold until the Warner Bros. Discovery and Paramount merger was settled.

Timing remains a key factor because of Matt Reeves’ separate franchise. ‘The Batman Part II’, starring Robert Pattinson outside of DCU continuity, is currently set for release on February 18, 2028.

Gunn has previously said he doesn’t want both Batman films released in the same calendar year. That could influence when ‘The Brave and the Bold’ eventually arrives in theaters.

For now, fans will need to wait for official word from DC Studios. Until a director, cast, and release date are confirmed, the film’s timeline remains speculative. Still, the latest reports suggest the studio is taking its time to get Batman right. Given the character’s importance, that careful approach may ultimately pay off.

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