Upcoming DC Animated Films for 2013

When it comes to the direct-to-video original animated films set in the DC Universe, we knew that there was a sequel coming to Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 1, but Warner Bros. Home Entertainment has released news of additional titles planned for 2013.

First, here’s the trailer for Dark Knight Returns Part 2, highlighting the Batman/Superman showdown:

It’s due in early 2013 (where “early” means January/February). Mid-year comes Superman: Unbound, based on Superman: Brainiac by Geoff Johns, originally published in Action Comics #866-870 and illustrated by Gary Frank. (Spoiler: this was also the story where Pa Kent died.)

Later in 2013 (second half), it’s Justice League: Flashpoint, again based on a story by Geoff Johns (Flashpoint).

I’m tempted to wonder where the films based on the new DC 52 comics are, but they haven’t been around long enough to develop the kind of following they want for these movies, and their takes on reestablishing the icons would only confuse viewers. Then again, by doing Flashpoint, they may be setting the stage to change the character versions, the same way the comic book company did.

If you’d rather see something much odder, there’s also going to be a Lego Batman movie called Lego Batman: The Movie — DC Super Heroes Unite. Trailer follows:

The Lego people are cute but evil, in the case of Lex Luthor and the Joker, and it’s awfully weird seeing them move. Still, at least it’s got a sense of humor — that last scene is hilarious! — and there’s something intriguing about them knowing they’re in a constructed world, as bricks come apart around them.