Imagine a world where DC rivals Marvel, not just in comics, but on the big screen with a cinematic event of unprecedented scale. Insiders are whispering that Saudi Arabia is aiming to do just that – create a DC universe rivaling the Avengers’ peak, potentially even resurrecting the SnyderVerse in the process! But here’s where it gets controversial: this ambition hinges on a potential takeover of Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), and it could dramatically reshape the future of DC films as we know them. Is this a bold new direction, or a risky power play?
Following reports about the potential return of the SnyderVerse, sources close to the situation have revealed the grand vision behind Saudi Arabia’s interest in acquiring Warner Bros. Discovery. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) isn’t simply looking to buy content; they have their sights set on building a multimedia empire, a franchise event on a scale comparable to, or even surpassing, Marvel’s Avengers: Endgame. The insiders suggest that James Gunn’s current DCU plans simply can’t deliver that kind of massive, unifying event while the studio’s ownership remains uncertain. This is a critical point to understand: it’s not just about making movies; it’s about creating a cultural phenomenon.
Why James Gunn’s DCU Feels ‘Stuck’ – And What That Means
This aligns with previous reports indicating that Gunn’s position at DC Studios becomes precarious the moment WBD changes hands. He reportedly can’t greenlight a large-scale crossover event because the current leadership is aware of the impending ownership change. Consequently, his slate of projects is more contained, focusing on his “Superman Family Saga.” The recent announcement of a Jimmy Olsen series and Andy Muschietti’s reluctance to discuss the DCU Batman are cited as examples of this cautious approach.
And this is the part most people miss: Gunn has publicly stated his disinterest in incorporating Darkseid, a key villain in the DC universe. Insiders say this is a telling sign. The Saudis reportedly view Zack Snyder as the filmmaker best suited to complete the epic DC saga he started, which, of course, prominently features Darkseid. This raises a fascinating question: Is it possible for multiple versions of the DC universe to co-exist, or is a major shift inevitable?
Nolan’s Moves: A Subtle Signal?
Christopher Nolan’s recent career moves also offer clues. He’s now at Universal and filming The Odyssey in Morocco. Insiders have pointed out that this location is geographically close to Saudi Arabia’s growing film industry, suggesting a potential connection.
The Saudi PIF reportedly met with Comcast-Universal regarding the Warner Bros. acquisition. This, coupled with their $55 billion acquisition of EA Games, paints a picture of a multimedia empire encompassing film, games, sports, and theme parks. Imagine a world where you can watch a DC movie, play a DC video game, and then visit a DC-themed amusement park all owned by the same entity!
Snyder’s Existing Ties to Saudi Arabia
Nolan and Snyder are considered “bellwethers,” meaning their career choices and public statements indicate the future direction of blockbuster filmmaking. Nolan has openly acknowledged Snyder’s influence on global blockbuster cinema, referencing RRR, a massive Indian action epic, as an example. Filmmakers like the Russo Brothers and James Cameron have echoed similar sentiments. But here’s the interesting part: Snyder already has ties to Saudi Arabia through his UFC partnership on Brawler, a film backed by the country’s General Entertainment Authority.
The Saudis and UFC reportedly favor Snyder’s “muscular” filmmaking style. Turki Alalshikh, a prominent Saudi figure, has publicly expressed his admiration for Snyder, further solidifying this connection.
The Ultimate Goal: A DC Event That Reshapes the Landscape
Insiders are adamant that the Saudis envision a DC universe that not only rivals Marvel but surpasses it in terms of cultural impact. They believe that only the SnyderVerse can deliver this kind of event, which explains why Snyder has been actively posting images of Ben Affleck, Henry Cavill, Jared Leto, and Jason Momoa while the WBD sale progresses. Their ambition is to create a modern mythology, and they see Snyder and Nolan as the only filmmakers capable of delivering a cultural event of that magnitude.
This is why Zack Snyder has seemingly shifted into high gear on social media. As one insider put it, “The Saudis want their investment in WB to rival Marvel, and they want an event as big as Avengers Doomsday. James Gunn knows his time is uncertain and can’t greenlight anything that big.”
With Saudi Arabia emerging as the frontrunner to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery, Snyder’s DC universe—and perhaps even Nolan’s return as a creative force—is back in contention. What do you think? Is this the right direction for DC? Will a Saudi-backed SnyderVerse truly rival Marvel’s success? Or is this a recipe for disaster? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!