Fan CastingANIMAL MAN (2029)

In the evolving tapestry of James Gunn’s DCU, Animal Man offers a poignant, standalone story filled with existential dread, dark humor, and deeply human moments. It tells the story of Buddy Baker, a struggling actor and family man who gains the ability to borrow the traits of animals. Initially, Buddy uses his powers for small heroics and minor fame, but his life begins to unravel as he confronts the existential weight of his powers. Buddy starts experiencing disturbing visions tied to the suffering of animals, the destruction of nature, and the mysterious force known as The Red, which connects all animal life. His powers begin to malfunction, and Buddy is drawn into a surreal journey that forces him to question the nature of his existence. In a shocking twist, Buddy learns that he is not entirely real but a fictional creation—a character Buddy learns that he is not entirely real but a fictional creation within the DC Universe. This revelation comes after he encounters James Gunn, who appears in the film as himself. Gunn reveals that he is Buddy's "creator," a writer and filmmaker responsible for crafting his life, struggles, and even his family. This meta-narrative forces Buddy to grapple with the idea that everything he cherishes—his wife Ellen, his children Cliff and Maxine, and even his powers—has been orchestrated for the sake of entertainment.