As more characters are added to Zack Snyder‘s sequel to Man of Steel, there was some speculation that 2016’s Superman Vs. Batman would in fact be a Justice League film. Now Warner Bros. president of worldwide production Greg Silverman has confirmed (via the Wall Street Journal) has confirmed plans for Justice League following their next Superman film.
“It will be a further expansion of this universe,” said Mr. Silverman. “’Superman vs Batman’ will lead into ‘Justice League.’”
Zack Snyder will once again direct, with Henry Cavill, Ben Affleck and Gal Gadot expected to return as Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman respectively. Ray Fisher was recently announced as Cyborg for Superman Vs. Batman, and there’s a fairly good chance he will return as well.
Warner is playing catch-up with Disney/Marvel Studios, who are now 9 films, several one-shots and a TV series into their Marvel Cinematic Universe. Indeed, recent announcements indicate that their plans extend to 2028, presumably including at least a third team-up of their Avengers. A release date stand-off will take it to the streets on 6 May 2016, when Captain America 3 is set to go head-to-head with Superman Vs. Batman. However, more recent sources have indicated that Disney are “struggling with” the date, and may blink first in this expensive game of chicken. After all, as great as Captain America: The Winter Soldier is, audiences will be unable to resist the lure of Batman and Superman’s first cinematic meeting.
Warner also has two superheroes building on television to much acclaim, namely Arrow and The Flash. There is no word yet as to whether they will be incorporated into the cinematic universe, or if Stephen Amell or Grant Gustin will reprise their roles for the big screen.
