If you expected the DCU’s upcoming Deathstroke & Bane team-up movie to be a among DC’s grittiest movies, the rumours of Greg Mottola helming the picture offer up a whole new perspective — but we’re not complaining.
James Gunn and Peter Safran’s DC Universe is just getting started, and it has already offered up some excellent projects. It all started with animated series Creature Commandos (which we loved), and made its big screen debut with Superman (2025), starring David Corenswet in the titular role. The franchise will continue this year through Supergirl and Clayface.
One upcoming project that’s sizzling away behind-the-scenes is a team-up picture between Deathstroke (Slade Wilson) and legendary Batman villain Bane. Such a film would mark the first return to the big screen for Bane since he last appeared in Christopher Nolan’s beloved threequel The Dark Knight Rises (2012). Meanwhile, Deathstroke appeared more recently in Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021), played by Joe Manganiello.
Bane & Deathstroke was initially discussed in September 2024, with the screenplay reportedly penned by Matthew Orton, who’s already well-regarded in the comic book space thanks to his work on Moon Knight. Since then, news on the project has very much stalled. However, a report from Deadline suggests that the acclaimed filmmaker Greg Mottola is attached to direct, although other directors are being considered. The report suggests that should Mottola become attached, the project would likely be re-written.
Mottola has plenty of experience in the world of comic book projects. His works tend to have a comedic approach, look no further than his direction on episodes of Peacemaker, which makes his choice for Bane and Deathstroke rather unique. This is a movie that feels all set up to be a self-serious grit-fest. Appointing Mottola feels strange, but it could be a stroke of genius from Gunn and Safran. We know he favours quirky and witty approaches.
In addition to Peacemaker, Mottola is also best known for Superbad (2007) and Paul (2011). Right now, he’s working as an executive producer and director on new Peacock series The Miniature Wife.
Would you like to see Greg Mattola tackle a Bane & Deathstroke movie? If not, which director do you think would be better suited? Tell us in the comments down below!
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