Injustice and Beyond: DC Shows that would be a Perfect Fit for HBO Max

With the recent announcement of the upcoming Peacemaker show on HBO Max, we’re taking a look at the other possible DC shows that could hit the streaming service. DC has a wide selection of characters and storylines that could be adapted to the small screen. With the upcoming film slate already stacked, now would be a good time to being the development of HBO Max shows to entertain viewers at home and continue to build out the multiverse. 

HBO Max is the perfect destination for big-budget DC shows featuring characters that may not necessarily be the top choice to lead a film. These series provide the opportunity to take more time to introduce characters and tackle multiple storylines. With the budgets and visual effects of streaming shows coming closer to that of some films, there are no longer restraints holding studios back from adapting high-concept characters for tv. 

Here are my predictions for upcoming DC shows for HBO Max:

 

Injustice

An Injustice inspired series could have the potential to be Game of Thrones with superheroes. Following the plot of the comic of the same name, this show would follow the alliances and conflict among two groups of superheroes, one led by a more unhinged Superman and the other by Batman. Featuring the expanded scope, the wide ensemble cast of complex characters and various power plays of a show like Game of Thrones, Injustice would provide superhero action in a mature and darker world. Thanks to the existence of the DC Multiverse, no character would be safe in this series, keeping fans on the edge of their seats for every new episode. 

 

Justice Society of America (JSA)

Dwayne Johnson confirmed at DC Fandome that the JSA will be featured in his upcoming Black Adam film. Four members of the team will be introduced: Hawkman, Cyclone, Atom Smasher, and Doctor Fate. As fans of the comics know, there are still quite a few heroes that can be introduced to the team in the DCEU. Characters like Stargirl, Alan Scott Green Lantern, Jay Garrick Flash, Mr. Terrific, Wildcat, and Hourman. Some of these characters were introduced in the DC Universe series Stargirl, but thanks to the multiverse DC can use the same characters in an HBO Max show with new actors if they wish. This series could explore multiple iterations of the team throughout time. It would be interesting how a superhero team during World War II deals with the world crisis and how a modern version of the JSA would fight for today’s world. 

 

Birds of Prey

Although the recent Birds of Prey film earlier this year featured the title team, it ultimately ended up being a Harley Quinn film. The ending established the Birds of Prey team consisting of Huntress, Dinah Lance (Black Canary), and Renee Montoya. With a box office below expectations, it seems that a direct sequel isn’t likely. However, there could be an opportunity to continue the story of these heroes on HBO Max. DC would not be wise to shelf this cast, especially given their amazing chemistry. There is a rich history of the Birds in the comics and it would be exciting to see their future adventures, especially if the series includes Barbara Gordon.  

 

Deathstroke 

At one point in time, a Deathstroke film was in development with The Raid‘s Gareth Evans set to direct and Joe Manganiello returning as Slade Wilson from his brief cameo in Justice League. An R-rated violent action series featuring one of DC’s best assassins would make for an incredibly entertaining series. This could also provide an opportunity to further develop the character of Slade and tap into his motivations. Joe Manganiello deserves another shot at the character, especially in a longer format with no restrictions. Gareth Evans returning to the project to direct at least the opening episode would be the cherry on top. 

 

Deadshot

In a very similar situation to Deathstroke, DC was once rumored to have interest in a solo Deadshot film starring Will Smith. Due to scheduling conflicts, the character will not be appearing in the upcoming The Suicide Squad. With such a huge star attached to the role, it would be a wasted opportunity to not bring him back. A Deadshot series could follow the character’s various hitman contracts and interactions with other characters across the DC universe.

 

Nightwing

One of the best fighters and most charismatic characters in DC deserves his own series. Whether it features a Dick Grayson from Robert Pattinson’s Batman universe, one from Ben Affleck’s deep history in Gotham, or even a Nightwing in a completely separate universe from what we’ve ever seen, fans deserve to see the classic character lead a series. The potential here would be endless, with a key opportunity to introduce other members of the Bat-family. 

 

Superman (Brandon Routh)

The Crisis on Infinite Earths event on the CW “Arrowverse” opened the doors to a Kingdom Come-inspired Superman. Routh was one of the few shining parts of Superman Returns and his performance in Crisis made fans hungry for more of his Superman. With Henry Cavill likely staying on as the iconic character in films, Routh can carve his own place on HBO Max as the man of steel. When it comes to Superman, the more content, the better. 

After the recent announcement that DC Universe would become a comics-only service, moving all of its original shows, it seems that HBO Max is going to become the ultimate destination for DC characters. Fans have much to look forward to with the new streaming service, including Green Lantern and Justice League Dark shows. The possibilities are endless, leaving the door open for premium DC shows for years to come. 

What DC series would you like to see on HBO Max? 

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