EXPANDING DC COMICS/CW's "ARROW/FLASH" UNIVERSE

There are those who hope that this is connected to the universe that will be expanded upon within the "Man Of Steel (2013)" follow-up. A movie that will have Superman now joined by Batman, Wonder Woman, Alfred Pennyworth and Lex Luthor. "Arrow" leading star, Stephen Amell, has stated that he wants the worlds to be connected. Given the popularity of the series that has spawned a spin-off series for the scarlet speedster in "The Flash", it wouldn't be too bad of an idea. Some may say that Marvel is doing this already with "Marvel Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D." However this is a chance to one up the competition by doing it better than them.
On the flip side there are those of course who are against this idea. Hard to argue with them as it is risky to do things in this manner. Especially given the fact that although "Man Of Steel (2013)" was successful, the follow-ups may not follow suit. The television series may falter themselves, with "The Flash" we don't even know if it will be worth watching past the pilot yet, and of course "Arrow" could begin to drop in quality. Either way, together they stand, together they could fall.

Both are right and wrong, however, for the upcoming list we will assume that the television universe that is "Arrow" and "The Flash" combined, and the movie universe stemming from "Man Of Steel (2013)", are completely separate from each other. "Arrow" has given us a few characters so far in the first two seasons. Characters like Deathstroke, Black Canary, as well as the members of Suicide Squad. The show even gave us The Flash himself, but with his being super-powered, it has opened the door for others to begin entering this universe.

Here are a list of characters that should begin to make appearances within CW's "The Flash" and "Arrow" universe....

Green Lantern Hal Jordan

Both of the lead characters of both shows have a deep history with the Green Lantern of Sector 2814. One that may never be portrayed on the big screen. Even if it is just Hal Jordan with no ring. This character needs to appear on these shows. I would prefer him in Green Lantern mode, with the dark setting the green would pop off the screens. Since he does more television than movies really, it would make a good opportunity for Nathan Fillion fans to finally get their wish. Regardless of who played him, Hal is a character that could be on both shows and help unite them at points if they chose to. Who knows, could lead to a successful spin-off himself.

 

Hawkman

One of the high points of "Smallville" was the inclusion of the members of "Justice Society". He may not have been a spot on rendition, but he was a nice addition to the show. Hawkman would almost fit perfectly into the "Arrow" side of things, so far appearing to be the darker of the two series. Perhaps, he could team with Arrow to form a new version of the "Justice Society" or even there own "Justice League Of America". Then again, Hawkgirl could be added to a new "Birds Of Prey" with Black Canary and Huntress. Either way could work.

The Red Hood Gang

No this would include the man who would become The Joker, it does however include Jason Todd, future Robin and/or Red Hood. Personally I would perhaps have this be a subset of the original group in Gotham City that is looking to expand the empire. Of course when they are stopped, they are too preoccupied in Gotham dealing with a Bat problem to retaliate. It would make for a good opportunity to introduce Roy and Jason Todd to each other. Either as a sign of things to come, or even to pay homage to the two currently teaming together with Starfire in the comic book "Red Hood And The Outlaws". Given Ra's al Ghul is somewhere within this universe, and the general tone of the book, Jason would make a good fit even if only an episode or two. Also as the obvious "Batman Teaser".

Zatanna

Preferably with a much darker persona, and a much larger magic display. CGI wise. Not complaining about the version that was on "Smallville" but new shows, darker approach. With The Flash, and a couple others characters reaching "super-power" status, it has opened the door for characters like Zatanna with her magic as well. She could open the door for other characters of the Justice League Dark to begin to appear within the "Arrow/The Flash" universe on television. Likely minus John Constantine given his new show, but there are others like Deadman or even Swamp Thing.

Batman/Bruce Wayne

It may not happen, and the reasons could be the same as "Smallville". They also may not want to risk someone portraying a better Batman than Affleck, or not want to have an inferior one on television. Another character that if accepted by the audience, could also get a spin-off series. Some may say that would be too much like "Arrow" already is, however there are a lot of key differences that would separate them, especially if it was written properly could make for a successful show that is different from the one in which it was spawned. FOX isn't going to be giving us the dark knight, their Bruce Wayne is way too young still for that to even be a possibility.

Wonder Woman

Another one who is very unlikely given her new found presence on the big screen via Gal Gadot. She was however very close to getting her own series before there were talks about there being a sequel to the "Man Of Steel (2013)". It is also hard at times not to wonder if Paradise Island isn't out there when we are taken back to Oliver's days as a castaway. Added the new super-power theme with the Mirakuru formula enhancing guys like Roy and Deathstroke, and as well as The Flash making his transformation via his traditional route. Could "save" the character if Gadot's upcoming rendition doesn't work out well.

Of course there is an endless list of characters directly from both worlds that should appear, but highly likely that they will appear at some point. It will be interesting to see if they allow any characters to do double duty. The given reason for Batman/Bruce Wayne not appearing on "Smallville" was that they weren't allowed because Nolan was currently using the franchise. Flash getting his own show makes one think that they will allow it, if they aren't planning to combine them into one universe. He is a key member of Justice League and it would be safe to assume that they plan to expand the roster beyond the trinity of Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman in the movies. One may mention that FOX's upcoming "Gotham" which will feature a young Bruce Wayne. FOX is a special breed. They are also giving one of two Quicksilver's in the upcoming X-Men: Days Of Future Past, while The Avengers: Age Of Ultron gives the other. Hollywood. Sheesh.

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STAN'S THE MAN, BUT WEST IS BEST

Okay, slightly misleading title, as they are different people who have different connections to the comic book and film industries, and of course the obvious Marvel Vs DC part of things. Stan Lee creator of Spider-Man and other Marvel icons, Adam West forever known as Bruce Wayne/Batman in the campy hit series "Batman" back in the 1960's. Perhaps it makes more sense to have Stan make cameos in the films of characters he's been known to have created or worked on, as they are in some cases his "babies". And if he were still alive today, would be nice to think that Batman creator Bob Kane would have gone the same route and made small appearances within Nolan's trilogy (although likely not as comedic as Stan's spots have been).

Why not Adam West then? We all have our preferences as to who is the best Dark Knight, but can anyone argue who is truly the most iconic of the small group? Was even the only Batman to have joined other members of the League on television shows, and of course voiced Batman in the final two seasons of Super Friends. Ben Affleck is about to become the second in the upcoming sequel to the Man Of Steel, but West was first. Add that the 60's Batman series about to finally be released in boxsets, West's version of the Caped Crusader will become fresh for the noobs and act as a refresher the memories of those who can't help but picture 60's Batman every time they see Mayor West on Family Guy. It wouldn't need to be campy, he wouldn't even really need any lines like George Lucas did with himself in Star Wars Episode III: Revenge Of The Sith.

With Wonder Woman being played by Gal Gadot, it would also be nice to see the almost original but definitely THE Wonder Woman, Lynda Carter make a cameo appearance at the least. Smallville had cameos of almost anyone from previous versions of DC Comics live-action films and shows, including Carter. Even the upcoming "Arrow" spin-off "The Flash" is going to have John Wesley Shipp, the actor who played the scarlet speedster in the 1990's tv show based on the character. Why not have a glance of Adam West and Lynda Carter together perhaps sightseeing or having dinner together as some incident or action sequence begins and we see them looking up. Anything, really. Just them for now as well. If we allow Michael Keaton then we may open the door for Kilmer or Clooney, and they need to be forgotten. I would think about Nicholson, but he may demand a bigger role.

Sure, most may prefer that the cameo spots go to creators like Stan Lee, but nobody has put themselves out there so much that they are just as known as the characters they create. His is Stan "The Man" after all.

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WHAT ABOUT THE MAN OF STEEL?

Of course everyone's attention has been drawn elsewhere, but everything that is to come began with "Man Of Steel". Which of course, is a Superman movie. With the upcoming 2016 sequel looking more and more like the first installment of a Justice League movie, even with the casting of Lex Luthor we were given Alfred Pennyworth, a key Batman character. Of course, there has been talks and rumors of another villain to the mix, that may help keep this more Superman than Justice League, but even if it does everyone will be wanting to expand the team (if it hasn't already grown for MOS follow-up), drawing even more attention away from Superman.

What direction will they take? Will they keep Superman the focal point of the not only the upcoming movie but the ones that are sure to follow (if successful)? Are they simply using a "Man Of Steel" sequel as a per-cursor to a following but separate "Justice League" movie, leaving comic books original superhero to a film franchise of his own? I like to think that it will be the latter of the two, giving Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and whomever else they add their own films that all culminate in a Justice League. It is working for Marvel as we all know, and sooner or later they end up "borrowing" from each other creatively, so why not take a sure fire route, given the writing, directing and acting are up to par of course.

Regardless of what direction that they end up taking, there are some Superman characters that have yet to appear within the new universe, that should get a cameo in the very least, if not a starring or supporting role. Some will be making their big-screen debuts, others will be returning to the silver screen partaking in the live action blockbuster(s), here's a list of characters who need to appear in upcoming Superman "Man Of Steel" films...

Jimmy Olsen

Although not a spot on replica, in some ways this is Clark Kent's "Alfred". Who else does Clark have to call his friend? True, there is Lois, but we all know there is something more to that, and of course there is Ma Kent but even the biggest momma's boy can't tell his mother everything. This is where Jimmy comes in, he adds an new aspect to add to the Last Son Of Krypton and his human side. Or to simply add a light comedic tone to an otherwise slightly darker Metropolis.

Jor El

I didn't mind Russell Crowe and his interpretation of Superman's biological father, Jor El. Crowe himself has stated that he would like to do a solo film based on the character. As intriguing as that sounds, I would settle for him reappearing within the upcoming "Man Of Steel" films. Not necessarily in large roles, but there for advice type of roles. Although small, they require an actor to give the scenes depth, otherwise it just becomes a hollow message to not only the hero, but if they chose, the audience.

Doomsday

Probably a better choice for a group effort in a "Justice League" film, but before he stars in that, Doomsday needs to face Superman mano a mano. Dealing Supes his first near death experience, before having the favor returned within the "Justice League" flick at the hands of a returning Superman. Okay, maybe just my take on "what should be" but you get the idea. This is the villain that helped take comic books back into the "mainstream" when he killed off the untouchable Superman in the 1990's. Smallville wasn't too bad considering it was a television show, this monster need the big screen treatment to truly work.

Supergirl

A lot of people were upset with the ending of "Man Of Steel", perhaps Superman is upset with himself as well, and who better to help alleviate the guilt but his cousin? Of course, he's made the promise to try and always find away to do things without killing, but he doesn't even know how to stop himself yet, so give him a break. Kara also deserves some big-screen redemption, not meaning to really knock the 1984 attempt as it was an okay effort for the time it was made in. If anything, it is another option for the female fans out there who are even more limited now then we were pre-2000.

Kryptonite

Okay, it isn't a character per say. Not unless it is put inside a character (Kryptonite Man, Metallo, etc), but regardless of who and how, it needs to make an appearance within this movie universe. How else are they going to make Superman vulnerable at times. which are needed because he loses people when he is "too perfect". We know the hero is going to succeed in almost every outcome, they are highly likely to live on and give us more movies. It is the vulnerabilities that cast that little bit of doubt that keeps it interesting. They hinted at it with the needing to adapt to both Earths and Kryptons environments, but those are overcome simply by adapting to it over time. The traditional route or a new Government made version of the pieces of rock that make the Man Of Steel humble.


There are other characters of course, specifically Metallo (mentioned in "Kryptonite"), but this is the tip of the ice berg. It was reassuring having Lex Luthor finally cast, keeping this on a Superman route. Seems Henry Cavill's Superman is slightly in the background of what he helped make happen, which was delivering in the role and having fans actually wanting this sequel before there was even a whisper of Batman being involved in all of this. Something that was difficult to achieve with fans still fixed on the late, great Christoher Reeve and his iconic interpretation of Superman. Hopefully this list will be given reason to grow and evolve as I am hoping to be able to do with so far the Batman and Wonder Woman characters hopefully getting solo spin-offs.

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IS FOX SITTING ON A MUTANT GOLDMINE?

As much as I love the X-Men, in the movie universes, they are second to the Avengers Universe. Quality (production), promotion and box-office numbers. And that is okay, the lighter Avengers Universe needs a darker contrasting one and that can occur with the X-Men over at FOX. I am looking forward to the upcoming "Days Of Future Past" and it's follow-up "Age Of Apocalypse", but I see them as opportunities to expand their universe with solo and team-up spin-off films. There is even an opportunity to do something similar to what the Avengers Universe is doing in regards to "Age Of Ultron", and hinting at "Infinity Gauntlet". None of the movies about to be listed need to have really big budgets, they need good writing, directing and acting. The CGI or added effects don't need to be over-the-top grande in most of these cases. So if they "failed" they wouldn't take too much of a hit. I think some or most would work out if they had the right pieces in place like mentioned before with acting, etc.

Some are obvious to their fan bases, some are rumored to be almost ready to shoot or have been for years, some are "just my opinion" and one is the next best thing to "X-Men Vs Avengers" or "Infinity Gauntlet". Here's a list of movies FOX should start taking the Marvel Studios route with...

Deadpool

They gave us a taste in "X-Men Origins: Wolverine", and has been rumored to be getting his own solo flick for years now. With the current events happening within the X-Men films, it would be a great opportunity to re-cast and give a new taste of Deadpool, before branching out into his own solo venture. Rumored problem has been the rating, as he would require an "R" or higher. Putting him within the X-Universe gives an opportunity to show him in a ratings friendly way, so to also introduce those who aren't aware of him (there are some). Why not put him in the next one...

X-Force

All this time-travel stuff screams "Cable" and when I think of him, I think of "X-Force". They're giving us "Bishop" thankfully through this events of "Days Of Future Past", but also giving us "Warpath", a X-Force alumni, which provokes wanting this to happen. It is also a good point to launch a "X-Force" appearance before leading to a spin-off. Perhaps a more dark and more adult orientated form of the X-Men. Of course, we'd include Deadpool within all of this, either as a member of an antagonizing enemy before spinning off into his own. Once "X-Force" is established then "Cable" could teleport into his own solo films. If not in the upcoming "Days Of Future Past", but would like to see it stem from the follow-up "Age Of Apocalypse". With the political events in both X-2 and X-3, would've also been an opportune time to launch this team as the anti-Gov't mutants aka the grey area between X-Men and Magneto's Brotherhood.

X-Factor

Having X-Men, X-Force and X-Factor all building up to a larger movie, let's say "X-Tinction Agenda", could add too it all. Big part of the success over in the Avengers movies is that they all connect to each other. These three teams were all different with the mutant aspect being what joined them, so a build up to a grande finale with a common enemy uniting them despite indefferences, could mean big money. If not, then simply move on to another "story arc". But, with so many mutants to cover, it is hard to show them all, as well as continue to use what has worked. Multiple teams could help with this, and simply take what characters have worked for each to make the joint venture. X-Factor also covers the Gov't connection while X-Force is the anti-establishment, and X-Men being an even blend.

X-Men & Fantastic 4

I am not sure how anything related to the "Infinity Gauntlet" could be done with out characters from both of these, and that may not happen when the time comes and Thanos becomes more than just a teaser at the end. FOX should at least attempt to combine these two teams themselves before one day Marvel Studio's is able to do so themselves. There is going to be two different "Quicksilver" characters after-all. Not too sure where villains land in terms of owning rights, and Apocalypse seemingly already being a lock, if the soon-to-be rebooted "Fantastic 4" doesn't begin with him, perhaps they team-up to face Galactus. Or the gods agree to allow Spider-Man into this mix and we have FOX's version of a "Secret War" of sorts.

Solo Spin-Offs

Again, there are so many mutants, and each have their own fan base. Similar to "Deadpool" characters like "Gambit" have also been rumored to be getting their own solo adventures. If not the "team" route, then some solo movies could also build up to a giant team-up (worked for Avengers). Could have "Gambit" and "Deadpool" like mentioned, as well "Cable", a team-up with "Cyclops & Jean Grey", even a "Summers Brothers" movie that includes "Mr. Sinister"? List is endless, and depends on personal preference as to who should get their own movie. But, that is kind of the point, FOX could be cashing in like they are over at Marvel Studio's. Whether it was directly within the story or by simple guest-spots by one or two characters in each film, they can all be "connected" leading to a grand finale.


Endless possibilities as the X-Men are a massive chunk of the character catalog of Marvel Comics. And seems that although we've had 6, soon to be 8 X-Films, it seems as though there could be "more". I know not everyone wants to, and it doesn't necessarily mean things will be a success. However, it has helped that every year there is 1-2 of the Avengers related movies out every year, with the Blu-Ray/DVD/Digital releases filling the gaps in between. Announcing that there is already a follow-up to "Days Of Future Past" is a step in a good direction, but again, give us more than just a single X-Men team and Wolvie being the only solo-flick recipient.

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CASTING BATFLECK'S GOTHAM CITY (Ver 1.0)

Likely way too early to really think of most of these, for all we know the number of movies Ben Affleck signed on for may have been only for "Justice League/Man Of Steel" films. The hater could end up being proven right and we witness Batfleck bomb. Don't think that it will, but there is that chance. Also, hard to tell what direction they would take. Batman may be a grizzled vet within the follow-up, but that doesn't necessarily mean that the solo Bat-flicks would show Batman in that light, Affleck could pull off a younger version of the character. But, for this casting we'll assume it is the older Batman with a mix of cast mates that will range in age, new takes on some of these characters could make them work in a setting where they are younger than Batman. I am sure that either there will be references in the follow-up to "Man Of Steel" or possibly even an appearance of a Bat-character that will give us more of a clue, but with 2 years of wait time, things like this are needed to fill the time. Also, as much as I would like to see stars from Marvel's "Avengers" universe, I don't see them working for the competition. Although Star Wars and Star Trek are currently being directed by the same person, the DC-Marvel competition goes beyond the films into their core, comic books (ie, ripple effect from a successful movie, etc). And that being said, I don't see Johnny Depp being apart of this with him somewhat being a "Disney" guy with most of his blockbusters and Disney owns Marvel. But we can still wish though, as I am on board with him being apart of this.

We already know Batman/Bruce Wayne is Ben Affleck, and that Jeremy Irons will be his trusty butler and friend, Alfred Pennyworth. Here is a current list of characters who I think should appear and who should play them in future solo Batman movies...

James Gordon (Bryan Cranston)

Like Alfred, Jim Gordon is almost an expected character. After Gary Oldman's rendition in the Chris Nolan trilogy, that isn't a bad thing. If Batman is a grizzled veteran, then what would the Commissioner be? Almost tempted to want Oldman to evolve his character even further, but perhaps Cranston can take this role to a new level. We didn't get him as "Lex Luthor" and that is okay, now he's available for this role. Any doubt in this actors abilities should've been obliterated when "Malcom's dad" became "Walter White". If you haven't seen the hit series "Breaking Bad" yet? Get help removing the rock you're under and WATCH THAT SERIES! You'll thank me and everyone who ever suggested it. Plus, as we've seen, he passes the mustache test, which is almost Gordon's cape and cowl.

Catwoman (Lauren Cohan)

Like many, I have had my own ideas for movies and casting. I had Ray Stevenson as Batman/Bruce Wayne after seeing him in "Punisher: War Zone", and as Catwoman, I had Angelina Jolie. With Affleck's version being what is supposidly being, be almost perfect for Jolie to crack the whip, but perhaps too obvious and expensive. But, watching Lauren in "The Walking Dead" and seeing her in previous roles, she could possibly make it a role of a life time given the right story of course, but seems to have what it would take to play Selina Kyle aka Catwoman. Younger yes, but that could somewhat add to the Bat and Cat dynamic.

The Joker (Neil Patrick Harris)

I didn't blame Chris Nolan for saying that there wouldn't be another Joker in his universe. The respect for the late Heath Ledger of course, but then, who would you possibly get? One of the more difficult roles to cast even in a reboot scenario. Downey Jr would've made a possible good choice, but don't see Iron Man jumping sides. But, The Joker is going to be all anyone talks about as soon as it is mentioned that we will be seeing a member of Batman's rogues gallery.NPH is a quick top of my head choice, but the more I think about it, why not? He has talent and showmanship, both needed for Mr. J. What else could he show us with a darker more twisted scenario?

Harley Quinn (Emma Stone)

The last actress Brittany Murphy would have been the perfect casting for this role in my opinion. Then I realized that "The Amazing Spider-Man" although a Marvel character, it is a FOX movie, not apart of the "Avengers" universe, leaving Emma Stone available to try this role on for size. Similar to the Catwoman role, one may think of this as being too young, but like the feline, this would add to the dynamic of Harley's relationship with both her puddin' The Joker and B-Man, Batman. Plus Emma is pretty talented and could also make this a role of a lifetime.

The Riddler (Jim Parsons)

Didn't dawn on me until I saw him host "SNL" and he was doing a deeper voice, and portraying a serial killer in some skits. I was on Team NPH (Neil Patrick Harris) for the spot, but I think Jim Parsons could possibly do very well portraying The Riddler. Almost a darker, and only very slightly more masculine version of "Sheldon" on "The Big Bang Theory". Again tempted to reuse Jim Carrey, didn't do too bad and with a better movie and more experience now under his belt could truly own it, but, don't see him in a comic book movie with any violence after "bailing" on promoting "Kick-Ass 2" (right to his opinion, as are we).

The Penguin (Mike Myers)

Probably not many out there who would agree, and understandably would've preferred the late Philip Seymour Hoffman, but I am seeing a Penguin similar to that in the "Batman: Arkham" video game franchise, possibly a bit older. Myers being a character actor, which have comedy roles mainly, but that tends to happen to comedians. This could make for a great opportunity for "Austin Powers" to break-out big time in a serious role. With the assistance of prosthetic and make-up of course, but has the stature (compared to a taller Batfleck) and the ability in character acting to pull this off with voices and character traits and ticks.

Killer Croc (Kevin Grevioux)

For those unaware, Kevin is an actor and writer (screen and comic). Most notably, co-wrote and portrayed the Lycan named Raze in the "Underworld" movie franchise. I will admit, not my initial choice, that being the late Michael Clark Duncan, but a pretty good second choice. The character of Waylon Jones aka Killer Croc I would prefer a route similar to the graphic novel "Joker" where he was more human than lizard like other renditions have him keeping with the realism. Simply a very large cannibal who has a skin condition that looks like scales, with the right writing and acting, this would be scary enough without risking "cheesy" status or immediate "Lizard" in "The Amazing Spider-Man" films..

Nightwing (Norman Reedus)

Too much of a "commercial" choice with the success of his character in "The Walking Dead", but Marvel got "Merle", DC should get "Daryl". Although mostly rumors, but heard that this character may at least be referenced within the upcoming "Man Of Steel" follow-up. If Batman is to be a grizzled vet' what would Nightwing be? Maybe more suited for Red Hood/Jason Todd, but a battle hardened Richard Grayson may be something similar to what is Reedus' wheelhouse. He's shown he can deliver, and it will definitely help convince the non-comic fan spouses to let you choose the movie. And between "Daryl Dixon" and anything "Twilight", we're taking Norman every time.


Obviously this list will evolve other time, as I am sure all of yours will as well. And didn't approach this as an ensemble cast approach, but more of a character by character, so don't look at it as an over-commercialized casting. There are many, many more characters that I would like to see appear in a Batfleck "Gotham City", I would like to see a new "Two-Face", and would like to see "Mr. Freeze" and "Poison Ivy" get their redemption roles like we witnessed with "Bane" in the last installment in Nolan's Batman trilogy, who I would also like to see return (seen two awesome fan-art versions of a mask choice). List goes on, and will likely be covered in the future as we learn more about the plans for Ben Affleck's "Batman". Only time will tell. At least we have CW's "Arrow" and upcoming "The Flash" to tide us over until then. Speaking of television's "The Flash" check out the first look at his costume (HERE)

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