DC Studios Announces Three New Series That Will Expand Its Universe
DC Studios is expanding its animated universe with three brand-new shows, including an animated version of the popular comic series Absolute Batman, a Joker anime, and a new Krypto-focused kids series.
The projects were revealed during the DC Studios and Warner Bros. Animation showcase at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, where executives shared details about the future of DC animation.
The biggest announcement for many fans was the upcoming Absolute Batman animated series. Based on the hit comic by writer Scott Snyder and artist Nick Dragotta, the show will bring a different version of the Dark Knight to screens. Snyder will serve as executive producer and showrunner, while Dragotta will join as a producer. The comic has already become a major success, selling more than six million copies and becoming one of DC’s top-selling titles.
The animated adaptation will follow the same idea that made the comic stand out, showing Batman as a hero without the usual advantages of wealth and privilege. Instead of the classic billionaire version of Bruce Wayne, this story focuses on a more grounded and struggling Batman who fights against corruption and powerful enemies. Warner Bros. described the series as a version of the character that asks what remains when you remove the mansion, money, and resources, leaving only the hero himself.
DC Studios also announced Joker: Laugh Riot, which will be the company’s first official anime series. The project will be directed by Yasuhiro Aoki and animated by SOLA Entertainment. Unlike the lighter Krypto series, Joker: Laugh Riot will be aimed at adult audiences and explore a much darker story about Gotham’s most famous villain.
According to the official description shared by Warner Bros. Animation, the series begins after Batman is killed. The Joker then starts a dangerous journey through Gotham’s criminal world to find the person responsible. The story will explore how his search for revenge changes him, pushing him closer to becoming something he never expected.
The third project announced is an untitled Krypto animated series, which will focus on Superman’s famous super-powered dog. This show will have a much different tone, aimed at younger viewers while mixing comedy, adventure, and superhero action.
The story will follow Krypto as he spends time with a group of unlikely criminals living nearby. Warner Bros. Animation explained that the group will discover that Krypto is not just a cute pet but a powerful and chaotic force who may end up changing their lives. “Krypto’s pure nature slowly ends up redeeming them, whether they want it or not,” the studio said in its description of the series.
The announcements show DC Studios’ growing focus on animation as a major part of its future plans. Along with these new shows, the company is also continuing projects like Batman: Caped Crusader, My Adventures with Superman, Mister Miracle, and other animated titles.
With Absolute Batman bringing a new take on the Dark Knight, Joker: Laugh Riot exploring the mind of the Clown Prince of Crime, and Krypto offering a lighter superhero adventure, DC is preparing a wide range of animated projects for different audiences. Fans will have plenty of new ways to experience the DC universe in the years ahead.
Have something to add? Let us know in the comments!
