DC Studios’ New Joker & Harley Quinn Movie Will Break Superhero Tradition

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In an upcoming DC Universe movie starring the Joker and Harley Quinn, it appears a significant tradition associated with superheroes could be shattered. Despite their previous film collaboration leading to one of the biggest flops in superhero movie history, the Joker and Harley Quinn continue to be among the most beloved duos within this genre. Moving forward, they might have the opportunity to perform actions in a movie that fans have never witnessed before.

It is said that screenwriter Zack Cregger penned a script for a film called “Henchman” in the DC Universe. Following his critically acclaimed work on the horror movie Weapons, which made waves after its release in August 2025 and gained recognition as one of the most successful horror films in recent times, Cregger is now aiming to venture into the realm of DC Comics. He plans to do this by employing two of the franchise’s most prominent villains as a stepping stone for his new project.

Daniel Richtman’s scoop reveals a summary of Cregger’s DC script centered around Robert Redguard, a pharmacist who is grappling with the care of his unwell child. In a surprising turn of events, Redguard becomes entangled in the lives of the Joker and Harley Quinn, eventually joining their gang and gradually shedding his old identity as he immerses himself further into the criminal underworld.

“This is the plot synopsis for Henchmn, Zach Cregger’s DC script:

In the city of Gotham, a kindhearted pharmacist named Robert Redguard is wrestling with the challenge of caring for his ailing son. Following an unjust arrest and a thrilling escape from prison on a bus, Robert finds himself unwillingly drawn into the orbit of The Joker and Harley Quinn, joining their criminal enterprise. As he gradually carries out increasingly sinister acts, Robert starts to shed his old persona, evolving from a reluctant accomplice to a hardened crook.

If it’s accurate, this would be a unique instance where a superhero film wouldn’t highlight either a protagonist or an antagonist as the main character. While villain-centric films like the two Suicide Squad adaptations have increased in number, none have yet focused on a character who initially starts out as an ordinary civilian.

Currently, there’s uncertainty about whether the upcoming Henchman film will be a standalone story (Elseworlds) or connected to James Gunn and Peter Safran’s initial chapter titled “Gods and Monsters”. The next installment within this chapter is scheduled for release in 2026, featuring Supergirl. In the meantime, Matt Reeves is diligently working on The Batman – Part II, an Elseworlds film due out in October 2027.

What to Expect From Joker & Harley Quinn Movie

The eager fans can’t help but be excited about the possibility of Harley Quinn and the Joker sharing the screen again. However, this movie promises to offer an unprecedented experience, unique even within the DC Universe and the broader superhero realm. Instead of focusing on established characters like Superman or villains such as the Joker, it will center around a newcomer henchman, breaking fresh ground in the DC film franchise by choosing a different protagonist.

As a movie critic, I find myself pondering the position of this upcoming film within Gunn’s grand narrative for the DC Universe, given the ongoing uncertainty surrounding movies like “The Batman – Part II”. Rumors circulate that Cregger is presenting this project as a key player in the main DCU timeline. However, it’s essential to note that this classification is not yet set in stone, as the story is still in its infancy stages of development.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but get excited about the potential for more movies with similar themes following this success! Director Gunn is already diving deep into bringing lesser-known characters like Swamp Thing and The Authority to life within the DCU. He’s always been fearless in showcasing heroes and villains that don’t often make it onto the big screen, and I can’t wait to see what he cooks up next!

This movie, with many aspects yet to be ironed out, has the potential to revolutionize its entire genre if the narrative and journey are skillfully woven together effectively.

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2025-08-19 22:35