Yuhki Demers was involved in the visual development of the cinematic highlights ‘Spider-Man: A New Universe’ and ‘Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse’ and thought: why not tell a DC adventure in this immersive animation style? And what fits better as a template than the legendary animated series “Batman Beyond”, which is called “Batman of the Future” in Germany. Together with author Patrick Harpin, with whom he is already creating the Netflix series ‘My Dad the Bounty Hunter’, he developed a concept and it was presented to DC cinema distributor Warner.
As Demers reports But their Warner contacts were infected by the duo’s enthusiasm. According to Demers, “never” turned into “maybe” after her first pitch. Now they are slowly working their way up within the group – hoping to eventually get the green light from new DC film boss James Gunn.
Demers also posted three images on X showing what her animated film “Batman Beyond” would look like:
This is ‘Batman Beyond’
The cartoon “Batman of the future“ran from 1999 to 2001 – in Germany on ProSieben. The series is set in a future where Bruce Wayne has long since become too old to fight crime as Batman. Terry McGinnis will be his successor and has an exciting backstory. Because it stemmed from Amanda Waller’s attempt to clone Batman in order to have a new Dark Knight when Wayne has to step down. In a futuristic world where not only Batman but also his opponents have completely new gadgets, McGinnis must prove himself. Old Wayne is still there to help him with advice and support as a mentor.
Although ‘Batman of the Future’ was originally intended as a children’s series and sequel to the previous animated series ‘Batman’, The project became increasingly dark and was well received by many older fans of the Dark Knight. Today it enjoys cult status, is considered one of the best Batman stories. It was even later adapted into comic canon. The wish for a new adaptation for the big screen was repeatedly expressed. In the style of the “Spider-Verse” movies, this could actually work.
“Batman Beyond”: There have been a few attempts
It remains to be seen whether Demers and Harpin will continue to find open ears at Warner. The fact that they started conversations is an extraordinary achievement. They may also have the advantage that James Gunn is open to strange ideas and has already shown that individual projects outside his DCU are also possible.
So far, all attempts to bring “Batman Beyond” to theaters have failed. There were quite a few. Back in 2019, Warner reportedly came up with the idea of using the success of ‘Spider-Man: A New Universe’ as a template for an animated adaptation. But the idea disappeared. Even when planning the now-canceled DCEU, there was reportedly at times the idea of making a “Batman Beyond” movie starring Michael Keaton after “The Flash.” However, this idea was subsequently rejected. For budget reasons, it would probably have been a significantly less futuristic version than the original.
Now “Batman Beyond” fans can really hope: There seems to be at least a slim chance that such a film will actually come out. It would then be the third Batman incarnation in theaters. Because Robert Pattinson (see article image) will slip into the legendary costume again for “The Batman 2” (theatrical release: October 2, 2025). In addition, the new DCU will also have its Dark Knight in “Batman: The Brave And The Bold” (expected to be released in 2026 or 2027).