Navigating the sprawling landscape of DC films can feel like traversing the Multiverse itself. To experience the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) and related movies in the most coherent and rewarding way, the chronological order is generally considered the superior path, allowing for a gradual unfolding of characters, plot threads, and overarching narratives.
The Definitive Chronological Order of DC Films
While release order offers historical context, following the events as they unfold in the DC universe provides a richer, more engaging experience. Here’s the chronological order of all DC movies (including those outside the main DCEU continuity), starting with the earliest events:
- Wonder Woman (2017): Set primarily during World War I.
- Wonder Woman 1984 (2020): Takes place in the 1980s.
- Man of Steel (2013): Introduces the modern Superman.
- Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016): Brings Batman and Superman together, setting the stage for the Justice League.
- Suicide Squad (2016): A team of villains forced to work together.
- Justice League (2017) / Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021): The core heroes unite against a cosmic threat. The “Snyder Cut” is generally considered the definitive version.
- Aquaman (2018): Arthur Curry embraces his destiny as the King of Atlantis.
- Shazam! (2019): A foster kid gains superpowers.
- Birds of Prey (and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn) (2020): Harley Quinn strikes out on her own after breaking up with the Joker.
- The Suicide Squad (2021): A soft reboot of the Suicide Squad concept with a new team and director.
- Black Adam (2022): An antihero from ancient Kahndaq arrives in the modern world.
- Shazam! Fury of the Gods (2023): The Shazam family faces a new threat.
- The Flash (2023): A multiverse-spanning adventure with profound consequences.
- Blue Beetle (2023): A young man becomes host to an alien symbiotic armor.
- Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom (2023): Aquaman faces a returning threat to his kingdom.
- Joker (2019): An origin story for the iconic Batman villain, set outside the DCEU.
- The Batman (2022): A grounded, noir-inspired take on Batman, also outside the DCEU.
This order balances origin stories with team-up events, allowing viewers to understand character motivations and the evolution of the universe. It also separates the DCEU from the Elseworlds stories of Joker and The Batman which aren’t connected to the main continuity.
Understanding the DC Universe: Key Considerations
Choosing an order depends on what you want to get out of your viewing experience. The chronological order prioritizes narrative cohesion, while release order offers a glimpse into the evolving creative vision of the filmmakers. Ultimately, both methods provide valid and enjoyable ways to experience these iconic stories. However, with the planned DCU reboot under James Gunn and Peter Safran, this chronological order pertains mostly to the existing DCEU continuity.
Release Order vs. Chronological Order
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Release Order: This order reflects the historical timeline of the film’s production and distribution. It can be useful for understanding how the cinematic universe developed and how audience reception influenced subsequent films. However, it can lead to some narrative dissonance as characters appear in different eras.
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Chronological Order: As outlined above, this order prioritizes the in-universe timeline of events. It allows for a smoother and more cohesive viewing experience, especially when dealing with origin stories and character arcs that span multiple films.
The Impact of the DCU Reboot
The future of DC films is undergoing a significant transformation under the leadership of James Gunn and Peter Safran. Their vision, known as the DCU (DC Universe), aims to create a more cohesive and interconnected narrative across films, television, and animation. Some existing characters might be recast, stories retold, and the overall tone shifted to create a more unified and accessible experience. The Flash movie serves as a soft reset point, opening doors to the new DCU. While the existing DCEU films will remain available, the emphasis will shift to the new DCU projects as they are released.
FAQs: Your Burning DC Questions Answered
FAQ 1: What’s the difference between the theatrical cut of Justice League and Zack Snyder’s Justice League?
Zack Snyder’s Justice League, often called the “Snyder Cut,” is the director’s original vision for the film. It features additional characters, extended scenes, a different storyline, and a darker tone compared to the theatrical release, which was heavily altered after Snyder had to step down from the project. The Snyder Cut is significantly longer and is generally considered by fans to be the superior version.
FAQ 2: Should I watch the theatrical cut of Justice League or Zack Snyder’s Justice League?
Most fans recommend watching Zack Snyder’s Justice League. It provides a more complete and coherent story, better character development, and a more satisfying conclusion. It effectively overwrites the theatrical cut in terms of canon and narrative enjoyment.
FAQ 3: Are the animated DC movies considered canon to the DCEU or DCU?
No. The animated DC movies, while often excellent and adapting popular comic book storylines, are generally considered to be separate from the live-action DCEU and the upcoming DCU. They exist in their own self-contained continuities, allowing for more freedom in storytelling.
FAQ 4: Where do the Arrowverse shows (Arrow, Flash, Supergirl, etc.) fit into all of this?
The Arrowverse shows, which are primarily television series airing on The CW, are separate from the DCEU and the upcoming DCU. While there have been crossover events between the Arrowverse and the DCEU (notably in “Crisis on Infinite Earths”), they remain distinct universes with their own rules and storylines.
FAQ 5: What’s the status of the Joker sequel, Joker: Folie à Deux? Is it part of the DCEU or the DCU?
Joker: Folie à Deux starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga is considered an Elseworlds story, much like the first Joker film. It exists outside the main continuity of both the DCEU and the DCU. These films offer unique, standalone takes on DC characters.
FAQ 6: Is there a post-credits scene in every DC movie?
Not every DC movie has a post-credits scene, but many do. These scenes often tease future storylines, introduce new characters, or offer comedic moments. It’s always worth waiting to see if there’s anything extra after the credits roll. Online resources like websites and fan wikis can confirm if a specific film has a post-credits scene.
FAQ 7: What DC movies are confirmed to be part of the new DCU?
The new DCU slate has been announced, starting with Superman: Legacy (2025). Other confirmed projects include The Brave and the Bold, a Batman film featuring Damian Wayne as Robin, and Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow. Information about which actors will portray these characters is still being released.
FAQ 8: Are there any DC movies I can skip without missing too much?
While every movie contributes to the overall universe (in the case of the DCEU), some are considered less essential than others. Many argue that the theatrical cut of Justice League could be skipped in favor of Zack Snyder’s Justice League. However, skipping films will naturally lead to gaps in your understanding of certain character developments and plot threads.
FAQ 9: Why is it important to know the order?
Watching the DC movies in order ensures a more seamless and engaging cinematic experience, helping viewers appreciate character arcs, understand plot developments, and appreciate the overall narrative structure of the DC universe. It helps avoid plot holes and character inconsistencies.
FAQ 10: Will the old DCEU movies still be available to watch after the DCU begins?
Yes. The existing DCEU films will remain available for viewing on various streaming platforms, for purchase, and for rental. They will not be erased or removed. However, they won’t be considered part of the new, interconnected DCU storyline.
FAQ 11: How does The Flash movie affect the continuity of the DC universe?
The Flash (2023) is a multiverse-spanning film that effectively resets or soft reboots the DC universe. While it doesn’t completely erase the events of the previous DCEU films, it opens the door for significant changes and lays the groundwork for the upcoming DCU. It introduces the concept of different timelines and alternate realities, allowing for a fresh start.
FAQ 12: Where can I stream or watch all these DC movies?
The availability of DC movies on streaming services varies depending on your region. Many are available on Max (formerly HBO Max), as well as for rent or purchase on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Physical copies (Blu-ray and DVD) are also readily available.