DC Studios’ announcement that Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow and Lanterns are the only live-action projects currently in pre-production reflects a clear focus on shaping the future of the DC Universe. These projects are central to the studio’s new narrative direction under James Gunn and Peter Safran, as they craft the next phase of the DCU.
Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow is set to showcase a different take on the character, Kara Zor-El, focusing on her experiences of loss and isolation. The film will adapt Tom King’s comic, portraying Supergirl as a hardened warrior who grew up on a fragment of Krypton, witnessing its destruction over decades. Milly Alcock, known for her breakout role in House of the Dragon, will bring this more complex version of Supergirl to life. The movie, directed by Craig Gillespie, is scheduled for release in June 2026, following Superman: Legacy.
Meanwhile, Lanterns will introduce Green Lanterns Hal Jordan and John Stewart in a gritty, detective-style series. Drawing comparisons to True Detective, the series promises to merge superhero action with investigative drama, as the two Lanterns uncover a dark mystery that will have ramifications for the entire DC Universe. The show is part of DC Studios’ broader effort to create interconnected stories that appeal to both die-hard fans and new audiences.
Both projects highlight the studio’s intent to dive deep into character-driven narratives while laying the foundation for a new chapter in DC storytelling. With their distinct tones—Supergirl as a cosmic odyssey and Lanterns as a terrestrial mystery—the two will set the stage for future DCU films and series.