Navigating the labyrinthine timelines and multiple realities of the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) can feel like a superpower in itself. This guide provides the definitive answer on how to watch all DC movies in order, offering clarity amidst the complexity and ensuring a satisfying viewing experience.
Choosing Your Chronological Path: Several Options Exist
While a straightforward chronological approach seems simplest, the DCEU’s interconnectedness presents multiple viewing options, each with its own merits. We’ll explore three primary viewing orders: release order, in-universe chronological order, and a recommended hybrid approach.
Option 1: Release Order – The Way it Was Intended
The simplest approach is to watch the movies as they were released in theaters. This allows you to experience the DCEU’s evolution, see how character introductions were handled, and witness the changing creative directions over time. While not strictly chronological within the fictional world, this order preserves the intended storytelling rhythm.
- Man of Steel (2013)
- Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016)
- Suicide Squad (2016)
- Wonder Woman (2017)
- Justice League (2017)
- Aquaman (2018)
- Shazam! (2019)
- Birds of Prey (and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn) (2020)
- Wonder Woman 1984 (2020)
- Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021)
- The Suicide Squad (2021)
- Peacemaker (TV Series – This is included as it has direct ties to the movie) (2022)
- Black Adam (2022)
- Shazam! Fury of the Gods (2023)
- The Flash (2023)
- Blue Beetle (2023)
- Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom (2023)
- Joker (2019)
- The Batman (2022)
- Joker: Folie à Deux (2024)
Why choose this order? It reflects the actual journey of the DCEU, allowing you to understand how the universe was built and the reactions to each film influenced subsequent projects.
Option 2: In-Universe Chronological Order – Diving Deep into the Timeline
For a more immersive experience, you can watch the films according to their place in the DCEU timeline. This requires some interpretation as not all films are explicitly dated. This option is great for hardcore fans who want to experience the narrative flow as it theoretically happened within the DC universe.
- Wonder Woman (set primarily during World War I)
- Wonder Woman 1984 (set in 1984)
- Man of Steel (takes place in the present day of its release, 2013)
- Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (set after Man of Steel)
- Suicide Squad (takes place shortly after Batman v Superman)
- Justice League (takes place shortly after Suicide Squad)
- Zack Snyder’s Justice League (alternative cut of Justice League, but the same time period)
- Aquaman (takes place after Justice League)
- Shazam! (takes place after Justice League)
- Birds of Prey (and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn) (set a few years after Suicide Squad)
- The Suicide Squad (soft reboot, generally accepted to take place after Birds of Prey)
- Peacemaker (TV Series – Immediately follows The Suicide Squad)
- Black Adam (ancient origin story; modern events take place relatively concurrently with other post-Justice League films)
- Shazam! Fury of the Gods (follows directly after Shazam!)
- The Flash (deals with multiple timelines, but the main events take place after Shazam! Fury of the Gods)
- Blue Beetle (set after The Flash)
- Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom (set after Blue Beetle)
Independent Elseworlds Films (Not Directly Connected):
- Joker (set in the early 1980s)
- The Batman (set in a separate universe, contemporary but ambiguous timeframe)
- Joker: Folie à Deux (set in the same universe as Joker)
Why choose this order? It provides the most coherent narrative flow within the fictional universe, although it may sacrifice some of the intended pacing of the character introductions.
Option 3: Recommended Hybrid Order – The Best of Both Worlds
Our recommended approach combines elements of both release and chronological order, creating a satisfying balance. This maximizes comprehension and enjoyment while minimizing potential confusion. Watch films in release order up until Justice League. Then watch Aquaman, Shazam!, Birds of Prey, Wonder Woman 1984, The Suicide Squad, Peacemaker, Black Adam, Shazam! Fury of the Gods, The Flash, Blue Beetle, and Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom. Then watch the non-connected Elseworld films: Joker, The Batman, and Joker: Folie à Deux.
Why choose this order? It maintains the initial impact of the DCEU’s release while allowing for a more sensible chronological progression after the initial team-up.
Delving Deeper: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: What about the Animated DC Movies?
While this guide focuses on the live-action films, the DC animated universe is vast and rewarding. These animated movies typically exist in their own continuities and can be enjoyed independently. Consider watching them based on shared themes or character introductions as you explore the live-action universe.
FAQ 2: Does the Arrowverse impact the DCEU viewing order?
No. The Arrowverse (the CW’s interconnected DC television shows) is a separate continuity from the DCEU, meaning they do not affect the order in which you watch the DCEU films. While some actors have appeared in both, they play different characters.
FAQ 3: Is Zack Snyder’s Justice League canon?
The canonicity of Zack Snyder’s Justice League is a complex topic. While it was intended to be the definitive version of Justice League, it doesn’t perfectly align with subsequent films. It can be viewed as an alternate timeline or a “what if” scenario within the broader DC multiverse.
FAQ 4: What are “Elseworlds” films, and where do they fit in?
“Elseworlds” is a DC Comics term used to describe stories that take place outside of the main DC continuity. Joker and The Batman are examples of Elseworlds films. They offer standalone stories, often with unique interpretations of familiar characters, and don’t require any prior knowledge of the DCEU. Joker: Folie à Deux also fits into this category.
FAQ 5: Do I need to watch Suicide Squad before The Suicide Squad?
While the titles are similar, The Suicide Squad is more of a soft reboot than a direct sequel. It features some of the same characters, but with a different tone and director (James Gunn). It’s recommended, but not strictly necessary, to watch the first film to appreciate the character arcs, especially Harley Quinn’s.
FAQ 6: Should I watch the theatrical cut of Justice League or Zack Snyder’s cut?
Zack Snyder’s cut is highly recommended. It provides a more coherent narrative, better character development, and a more satisfying conclusion. The theatrical cut, often referred to as “Josstice League” due to Joss Whedon’s involvement, is widely considered inferior.
FAQ 7: Where does Peacemaker (the TV series) fit into the viewing order?
Peacemaker is a direct sequel to The Suicide Squad and should be watched immediately after it. It expands on Peacemaker’s character and ties into the larger DC universe.
FAQ 8: Are there any post-credit scenes I should be aware of?
Yes! DC films are notorious for their post-credit scenes, which often tease future storylines or introduce new characters. Always watch through the credits to ensure you don’t miss important developments.
FAQ 9: Is the DCEU being rebooted? What does that mean for the existing movies?
Yes, the DCEU is undergoing a significant overhaul under the leadership of James Gunn and Peter Safran. This doesn’t necessarily erase the existing films entirely, but it does mean that some storylines and characters may be discontinued or reimagined. The “new” DC Universe (DCU) is expected to launch with Superman: Legacy in 2025. Some actors may return to play roles in the new continuity.
FAQ 10: What is the future of the old DCEU actors like Henry Cavill and Ben Affleck?
While nothing is impossible in the world of superhero movies, Henry Cavill and Ben Affleck are not expected to reprise their roles as Superman and Batman in the new DCU.
FAQ 11: Does The Flash film affect the existing DCEU timeline?
Yes. The Flash movie is built around the concept of the multiverse, effectively resetting the established timelines and setting the stage for the new DCU.
FAQ 12: What’s the best way to keep up with the constantly changing landscape of the DC universe?
Stay informed through reliable news sources dedicated to film and comics. Official announcements from Warner Bros. and DC Studios are the most trustworthy. Be wary of rumors and unverified reports.
By following this guide, you can confidently navigate the complexities of the DC universe and enjoy these films in the order that best suits your viewing preferences. Enjoy the adventure!