DC's Darkseid: A Villain in Search of an Origin Story

With the upcoming Joker solo film starring Joaquin Phoenix hitting theaters this October and the Birds of Prey and Wonder Woman 1984 taking center stage in the coming months, the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) is in for a series of high-octane releases. However, the question lingers: is the DCEU running a risk by featuring Darkseid as its next major villain, especially as he shares similarities with Marvel’s Thanos?

Darkseid’s Unique Threat

The answer largely depends on how the DCEU decides to present Darkseid.

Darkseid, who rules the planet Apokolips, is far more complex than a simple Thanos clone. His character has lineage through a variety of offspring, including Orion, Kalibak, Grayven, Grail, and subordinates such as Desaad, Granny Goodness, and the Furies. Additionally, the New Gods, led by Scott Free and based on the planet New Genesis, add depth to the story. These elements alone could require several movies to properly develop, not just a single film. Considering Warner Bros. might prefer quick blockbuster releases over complex storytelling, it’s uncertain if the studio is ready to invest the necessary time and resources to make Darkseid’s appearance truly impactful.

The Parody Theory

There's also a playful twist to consider: fans around the world might view Darkseid as a parody of Thanos. In the original DC Comics universe, Thanos was a copy of Darkseid. This historical context adds humor to the contemporary perception, as many might see Darkseid as a derivative, rather than a standalone character.

The DCEU has the opportunity to elevate Darkseid as a formidable foe, distinct from his Marvel counterpart. However, this requires a substantial build-up and clear reasoning to establish his threat. If they rush this development, fans might again feel disappointed, similar to the Justice League (2017).

Future for Darkseid

The gap between the release of Avengers: Endgame (2019) and the potential reintroduction of Darkseid could be beneficial for both the DCEU and its audience. Fans have had time to process the Thanos storyline, and a waiting period would allow the development of a fresh, compelling narrative for Darkseid. This hiatus would also provide Warner Bros. with the necessary time to create a detailed and engaging backstory for this iconic villain.

Upcoming DCEU Films

While the focus remains on Justice League and succession, the DCEU has an impressively filled slate of upcoming titles. From Cyborg and Batman to the Green Lantern Corps adaptation, each film promises to keep the superhero community engaged. However, the absence of any confirmed plans to bring Darkseid to the big screen in the near future leaves many franchises on the cusp of narrative untapped potential.

In conclusion, whether Darkseid can become a truly formidable villain in the DCEU hinges on the quality of his introduction and the depth of his development. Fans and critics alike will be watching with bated breath as the DCEU takes its next steps towards resolving the parity between Darkseid and the ever-looming shadow of Thanos.