The James Gunn now reshaping the DCU's cinematic direction, the time is perfect to spotlight lesser-known but immensely powerful heroes. These characters aren’t just cool additions – they could fundamentally change the scale, tone, and storytelling possibilities across films and shows. From cosmic forces to mystical icons, these unused DC superheroes bring game-changing abilities and philosophies that could redefine what audiences expect from superhero movies
The DC Universe has long leaned on its "Trinity" of Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman to anchor its cinematic efforts. While these icons offer mythic storytelling potential, the over-reliance on familiar faces has left countless intriguing characters untouched by live-action movies. In the comics, these figures often play pivotal roles in universe-shaping events, but in live-action, they remain under wraps. Introducing these heroes could elevate the narrative complexity of the DCU, opening doors to new genres.
10 Captain Atom
DC's Nuclear Powered Superhero
Captain Atom is one of the most powerful beings in the DC canon, yet he’s been criminally underused outside of comics. A military officer transformed into a quantum-powered hero, Nathaniel Adam possesses nuclear-level strength, flight, energy manipulation, and even time travel abilities. He’s essentially DC’s answer to Marvel’s Captain Marvel but with a more grounded, political twist.
All 12 Actors From James Gunn's Superman Movie Who Previously Played Comic Book Characters
Superman (2025) is filled with exciting cast , many of whom have already appeared as other iconic characters from both Marvel and DC.
Atom’s ties to the U.S. government make him a perfect vehicle for stories that explore military-industrial power, Cold War paranoia, or the moral dilemmas of weaponizing superheroes. A well-written Captain Atom movie or series could blend superhero action with hard-hitting commentary, similar to Watchmen. His debut could introduce viewers to the more complex, gray areas of heroism, while also setting up major threats that require more than just brawn to handle.
9 Orion
Orion Has Connections To Darkseid
Orion is a New God from Jack Kirby’s Fourth World, the son of the tyrannical Darkseid, raised by the noble Highfather of New Genesis. His inner conflict – between his inherited rage and learned morality – makes him one of DC’s most compelling and overlooked characters. Orion represents an ideal entry point into the cosmic realm of DC storytelling, rivaling Marvel's Thor or Guardians of the Galaxy in scope.
Orion’s debut could launch the DCU into the vast, operatic scale of the New Gods saga, a space-bound epic filled with ancient power, celestial wars, and philosophical conflict. His presence also gives narrative weight to the looming threat of Darkseid. By introducing Orion, DC could pivot into full cosmic storytelling and embrace mythic themes that go far beyond Earth’s borders.
8 The Spectre
DC's Supernatural Detective
The Spectre is arguably the most terrifying force in DC’s lineup – a cosmic spirit of divine vengeance fused with a human soul. Often bonded to a deceased detective like Jim Corrigan, the Spectre delivers justice not by law, but by punishing evil in brutal, supernatural ways. He operates at the edge of theology and horror, making him a perfect vehicle for darker, more philosophical storytelling.
6 Superhero Movies That Proved They Could Skip The Origin Story
Superhero movies are increasingly skipping origin stories and assuming audiences are already familiar with the characters, with some notable success.
In the comics, he’s dealt with crises that challenge the very concept of morality, justice, and even free will. Introducing the Spectre into the DCU would open the door to stories exploring cosmic balance, divine judgment, and metaphysical horror. Think Constantine meets The Twilight Zone, with apocalyptic stakes. His debut could give DC a horror-fantasy anchor that Marvel has only just begun to tap into.
7 Zatanna
DC's Famed Magician
Zatanna Zatara is one of DC’s most powerful magic s – and yet, she’s never had a major spotlight outside of animation. As a stage magician who casts real spells by speaking backwards, Zatanna is both visually spectacular and narratively rich. Her stories often blend whimsy with genuine emotional depth, and she’s a natural bridge between grounded heroes and the magical multiverse.
A Zatanna-led film or series could serve as DC’s answer to Doctor Strange, but with a distinct theatrical flair and deeper ties to magical lineage. She’s also a frequent member of the Justice League Dark, giving her an easy path to team-ups with Constantine, Dean, and others. Introducing Zatanna would kick open the doors to DC’s magical realm, providing new tones, threats, and allies unlike anything seen in the current cinematic universe.
6 Icon (Augustus Freeman IV)
DC's Civil Rights Hero
Icon, aka Augustus Freeman IV, is a Black superhero with the power of Superman and the social awareness of Malcolm X. An alien who crash-landed on Earth during the 1800s and was raised as an African American, Icon's existence allows DC to explore racism, systemic injustice, and Black identity through the lens of superhuman narratives. Originally published by Milestone Comics, his stories address historical and present-day inequalities while tackling issues mainstream heroes often ignore.
I Love Smallville, But These 10 Episodes Are Difficult To Sit Through
Smallville is an iconic superhero series, but that didn’t save it from underwhelming filler episodes, tonal inconsistencies and cringey plots.
Pairing Icon with his teen sidekick, Rocket, could introduce intergenerational dynamics and activist storytelling. Icon isn't just a powerhouse – he’s a symbol of resilience and untold history. His debut in the DCU would offer fresh socio-political commentary and challenge the typical heroic mold. In the current cultural climate, Icon could spark important conversations while still delivering superhero spectacle.
5 Animal Man
DC's Surreal And Sometimes Horrifying Hero
Animal Man is one of DC’s most experimental heroes, and his inclusion would drastically expand the tonal range of the DCU. Buddy Baker gains his powers from "The Red," a force connecting all animal life. On the surface, he’s a superhero who can borrow animal abilities – but deeper stories have explored eco-horror, surrealism, and even metafiction.
Grant Morrison's legendary run in the late '80s turned Animal Man into a philosophical figure who questions reality, the role of heroes, and even his creators. A live-action adaptation could lean into body horror and psychological thriller territory, setting it apart from typical capes-and-tights fare. Animal Man is the perfect character to lead DC into genre-bending territory. His story would attract audiences looking for the weird, the thoughtful, and the unexpectedly emotional side of superhero fiction.
4 Phantom Stranger
DC's Enigmatic Observer
The Phantom Stranger is an enigmatic figure who walks the line between observer and cosmic manipulator. Neither fully alive nor dead, he’s often used in comics as a cryptic narrator or silent guide through major supernatural or metaphysical events. Bringing him to the DCU would open up rich storytelling possibilities – he could be the bridge between heaven and hell, Earth and the multiverse, life and afterlife.
I’m Seriously Hoping The DCU Still Makes What Was Teased To Be The DC Universe’s Version Of The Indiana Jones Movies
One of the DCU’s most promising projects has seemingly been delayed indefinitely, and I’m really hoping this isn’t code for it being cancelled.
Phantom Stranger would be an ideal host for a Twilight Zone-style anthology series or to weave together disparate corners of DC lore, from magic to cosmic threats. His mysterious origin and godlike knowledge make him ideal for cameos that pay off in major events. In a cinematic universe that needs connective tissue beyond just government agents or tech geniuses, Phantom Stranger could be the mythic glue.
3 Vixen
Vixen Could Help Introduce Several DC Teams
Vixen, aka Mari McCabe, taps into the morphogenetic field of the animal kingdom through her magical Tantu Totem, allowing her to channel any creature’s abilities – from the speed of a cheetah to the strength of a gorilla. Yet she’s more than a powerset – she’s a businesswoman, activist, and frequent member of major teams like the Justice League, Birds of Prey, and Suicide Squad. Vixen is long overdue for a big-screen moment, especially as a powerful Black female lead.
Vixen’s stories are ripe for tackling cultural heritage, the preservation of nature, and identity in a modern world. Set partly in Africa or focused on diaspora themes, a Vixen project could stand apart visually and thematically from typical urban-centric superhero fare. She’s dynamic, stylish, and deeply capable – an ideal entry point to expand both team dynamics and global perspectives in the DCU.
2 The Question
DC's Mysterious Detective
The Question is a faceless vigilante who doesn’t punch first, he interrogates reality itself. Whether it's Vic Sage or Renee Montoya behind the mask, the character offers a gritty, philosophical take on urban justice. A Question movie or series would thrive in a noir setting, blending conspiracy theories, political corruption, and existential dread.
Every DC Movie In 2025 And Beyond
Here's every new DC movie confirmed as in development by WB for 2024 and onwards, including release dates and where they belong in the franchise.
The Question is also a skeptic in a world full of gods and monsters, which makes his grounded perspective invaluable. As the DCU matures, a street-level, cerebral detective who investigates truth rather than just fighting villains adds thematic depth. The Question wouldn’t need huge budgets or CGI, just mood, tension, and sharp writing. His debut could give the franchise the kind of prestige storytelling that attracts critical acclaim and niche fan loyalty.
1 Amethyst, Princess of Gemworld
DC's Fantasy Princess
Amethyst is a teenage girl who discovers she's royalty in a magical realm known as Gemworld – a place of high fantasy, ancient prophecies, and mystical power struggles. Think Alice in Wonderland meets The Lord of the Rings, but through a DC lens. Introducing Amethyst would instantly broaden the DCU into full-blown fantasy territory, a genre the franchise hasn’t truly explored. Her dual life – ordinary Earth teen and magical warrior – offers great coming-of-age potential.
Visually, Gemworld is a vibrant departure from gritty cities and space operas, filled with crystal kingdoms, mythical beasts, and enchanted foes. A film or series could attract fans of Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, and Willow, while tying her adventures into DC’s broader magical mythos. Amethyst adds heart, wonder, and untapped world-building potential that could enchant DCU audiences across generations.
- Created by
- Malcolm Wheeler-Nicholson
- First Film
- Man of Steel
- First TV Show
- Peacemaker
- Cast
- Xolo Mariduena
- Movie(s)
- Man of Steel, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, Suicide Squad, Wonder Woman, Justice League, Aquaman, Shazam!, Birds of Prey, Wonder Woman 1984, Zack Snyder's Justice League, The Suicide Squad, Black Adam, Shazam! The Fury of the Gods, The Flash, Blue Beetle, Superman, The Brave and the Bold
- Character(s)
- Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, The Flash, Cyborg, Harley Quinn, The Joker, Shazam, Darkseid, Amanda Waller, Lex Luthor, Doomsday, Deadshot, Deathstroke, Black Canary, Black Adam
