1. The DC Cinematic Universe Might Stand A Chance, After All
What You Originally Thought: Given the success of Marvel's own endlessly expanding cinematic universe, it was only a matter of time before DC started work on their own version, of course. But given the loss of Christopher Nolan as the man behind Batman, a totally clean slate in terms of the canon, and then a disappointing franchise starter in Man of Steel, it's no wonder that audiences felt a little concerned about the whole idea. Especially given that the first teaser for Batman v Superman proved to be relatively underwhelming, and Suicide Squad - DC's attempt to introduce a handful of villains as quickly as possible - looks like it could go either way. Is the DC Cinematic Universe destined to play second fiddle to its more established (and insanely popular) Marvel parallel? How The New Trailer Changed Your Mind: There was enough actual good in the latest Batman v Superman trailer to give audiences some genuine hope that this huge, potentially messy idea could actually turn out to be a great film. The new trailer managed to raise excitement levels, showcasing what looks to be a competent and well-judged sequel to Man of Steel, that also managed to make a few references to a much larger DC universe. That's to say, the shots of Wonder Woman, the potential Aquaman reference, and the scattered hints throughout towards Batman's relationship with the Joker (i.e. Robin's graffiti-marked suit, which seems to suggest that he was killed by said villain once upon a time). Yes, here's a trailer that seems to teases a cinematic universe with real potential. It's the first sign that things on both Warner Bros. and DC's side of the fence might not actually be quite as a troubled as everyone seems to think. If you were previously concerned or paranoid or fearful about the state of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, it's the sort of trailer that might just stop you from worrying about it to the same extent than you have been. Relax.
Sam Hill is an ardent cinephile and has been writing about film professionally since 2008. He harbours a particular fondness for western and sci-fi movies.