It was announced recently that Joss Whedon is now in final talks to write and direct a Batgirl film for the DC Extended Universe. The news is quite exciting when you know his resume, with shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel giving a great example of how well he is able to tell dark stories.
The question that was asked by many fans was which version of Batgirl would we see in Whedon’s film? Barbara Gordon, the most well-known vigilante to have worn the cape and cowl? Stephanie Brown, who trained under Barbara Gordon after giving up the Robin persona? Or could it be Carrie Kelly, who recently began donning the Batgirl persona in The Dark Knight III: The Master Race, the most recent Frank Miller story? These being the most famous within the comic book fan community, but certainly not last.
Entertainment Weekly gave an answer to that question by revealing that Gail Simone’s run of the character in the New 52 will be the inspiration they will be using. This certainly makes sense, in that story Barbara Gordon, who has worked as The Oracle after The Joker crippled her in The Killing Joke is able to regain her motor functions and returns to her Batgirl persona, however she still has the trauma from her incident and has to work through it.
Batgirl Writer Gail Simone also commented on her excitement at this news and asked that Alysia be bought into the story. Alysia is the first openly transgender character to be introduced and became Barbara’s best friend.
GUYS. THERE IS TOTES GOING TO BE A WONDER WOMAN MOVIE AND A BATGIRL MOVIE.#FREAKINGOUT
— GAIL SIMONE (@GailSimone) March 31, 2017
Seriously, my greatest hope right now is that Alysia is in the movie, that would mean a lot to so many. Plus, she's fun!
— GAIL SIMONE (@GailSimone) March 31, 2017
She went on to say what her hopes would be if they do include Alysia, including getting an actual transgender in the role, no discussion.
No, but it has to be a trans woman actor, that is non-negotiable. https://t.co/Gp5UVxnw7l
— GAIL SIMONE (@GailSimone) March 31, 2017
Gail Simone talked with a fan about how much say she has whenever a character she wrote for is being used at DC Comics.
Some, once you create it, they have the rights, but they often ask out of courtesy. https://t.co/3UphmA3pek
— GAIL SIMONE (@GailSimone) March 31, 2017
Gail Simone went on to discuss what Barbara Gordon and Batgirl means to her.
First, yes, I am ridiculously excited. When I started comics, movies featuring Wonder Woman and Batgirl seemed like faraway dreams. No more.
— GAIL SIMONE (@GailSimone) March 31, 2017
So I don't have any answers yet, either. I just hope it's all real. 🙂
— GAIL SIMONE (@GailSimone) March 31, 2017
He had the same kind of grief I had after I was off the Wonder Woman book. It was very genuine.
— GAIL SIMONE (@GailSimone) March 31, 2017
I loved Avengers, I've watched it repeatedly, and I loved Cabin In The Woods. Have not seen Buffy or Firefly.
— GAIL SIMONE (@GailSimone) March 31, 2017
Next, I did read the articles that say it is based somewhat on my run. It's early days, everything could change, but that is COOL.
— GAIL SIMONE (@GailSimone) March 31, 2017
…honest to god, all I want is for the movie to be great. I don't care who writes it, just make it great. Make it goddam BATGIRL.
— GAIL SIMONE (@GailSimone) March 31, 2017
Next, about casting. Guys, I don't follow actors and I don't watch tv. I have no idea who would be good in the role. Sorry.
— GAIL SIMONE (@GailSimone) March 31, 2017
It is not overstating to say she is a huge part of who I am today. She is part of what I fight for and believe in.
— GAIL SIMONE (@GailSimone) March 31, 2017
She added color and adventure. She was smart and tough and gorgeous and NO ONE'S sidekick. I loved her instantly and forever.
— GAIL SIMONE (@GailSimone) March 31, 2017
To me, this isn't just about two hours of being entertained. I want as many people as possible to experience how amazing Barbara is.
— GAIL SIMONE (@GailSimone) March 31, 2017
If I am part of that happening, if my run helped make that happen, I could retire tomorrow and feel very content and overjoyed, really.
— GAIL SIMONE (@GailSimone) March 31, 2017
That's about it. Other than that, you know as much as I do, and I am waiting on the edge of my seat to hear more. Joss, Godspeed!
— GAIL SIMONE (@GailSimone) March 31, 2017
This sounds great, Joss Whedon is great at writing dark stories and Gail Simone’s run certainly fits the overall tone of the DC Extended Universe. I think this Batgirl film will become Birds of Prey as the Harley Quinn film was first announced as a solo film and is now Gotham City Sirens. Not only that but David Ayer is the only director to have shown his support on Joss Whedon’s inclusion to the DC Extended Universe and that makes me think Batgirl will be appearing first in Gotham City Sirens, though this is my speculation.
NOTE: Keep in mind Warner Bros nor Joss Whedon have not confirmed this news, but Entertainment Weekly has a good track records on these type of reports.
Source: Entertainment Weekly
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