S17 Episode 236 “James Gunn On Deck”

It’s truly a wild time to be a DC fan, isn't it? As I was thinking about James Gunn taking the reins, my mind couldn't help but wander back to how we even got here. The transition from the DCEU to the new DC Universe under Gunn and Peter Safran has been a topic of endless debate among us fans, and honestly, it’s fascinating to look at the journey that led us to this exciting new chapter. For many of us, myself included, the original DCEU, while having its moments, often felt a bit... disjointed. It seemed like there wasn't a consistent overarching vision, which I think ultimately contributed to the decision for a full reboot. We saw incredible highs, but also some confusing narrative choices and critical reception that varied wildly from film to film. It felt like they were constantly trying to course-correct rather than building on a solid foundation. If you ask me, the push for the new DCU is a direct response to wanting a more cohesive, interconnected storytelling universe, much like what we’ve seen succeed elsewhere. The official 'conclusion' of the original DCEU is a bit fluid, as films like 'Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom' and 'The Flash' were already in production, but they effectively serve as the final notes of that previous era, paving the way for Gunn's complete overhaul. It's almost like a bittersweet farewell to what came before, acknowledging the ambitious effort even if it didn't always hit the mark. And speaking of DC characters, let's talk about one of my personal favorites: Krypto! It’s funny how often he comes up when you're discussing Superman's world. In the comics, Krypto isn't just any dog; he's Superman's loyal, super-powered Kryptonian canine companion. He essentially shares all of Superman's powers, from flight and super-strength to heat vision and super-hearing, thanks to Earth's yellow sun. What I find most intriguing about Krypto is his depiction of intelligence. He's often shown as being incredibly smart, understanding complex situations, and even communicating in a way that goes beyond a typical animal. He’s not just a pet; he's a true partner to Superman. Fan interpretations of Krypto's intelligence vary, but most agree he's far more than just a loyal sidekick. Some fans believe he possesses near-human intelligence, capable of strategic thinking and problem-solving, even if he can't verbally articulate it. Others see him as having a profound, almost instinctual understanding of right and wrong, and an unwavering devotion that makes him incredibly effective as a superhero. I mean, who needs a signal watch when you have Krypto? He’s been known to outsmart villains, rescue people, and even operate independently when Superman is in trouble. It’s a testament to how well he was created to be more than just a prop. His actions often speak volumes about his mental capabilities, demonstrating a level of awareness and empathy that truly makes him stand out. It’s one of those charming elements of the Superman mythos that always makes me smile – knowing that even his dog is a bonafide superhero with a big heart and an even bigger brain.