Titans: 12 Things We Know For Sure (And 9 Theories We Hope A
Aug 12, 2018 13:47:32 GMT
via mobile
BexxyJ likes this
Post by stargazer1682 on Aug 12, 2018 13:47:32 GMT
www.cbr.com/titans-tv-show-truth-theories/?utm_medium=Facebook-Distribution&utm_source=CBR-FB-A
Titans: 12 Things We Know For Sure (And 9 Theories We Hope Are True)
08.05.2018
by Danny Budge
The Teen Titans have become one of DC’s best known and loved properties, with two animated series and an animated movie just released. It’s no surprise that DC Universe, Warner Bros.’ new streaming service, will launch with its flagship live-action series, Titans. Although this version of the Titans will be less teen and more adult in tone, it will feature some of the young characters that have made the Titans famous. In their comic book form, the Teen Titans first premiered in 1964’s The Brave and the Bold #64, with founders Robin, Kid Flash, and Aqualad; Wonder Girl thereafter appeared, and the Titans became the Teen Titans. The book was always meant to appeal to young readers, showing how the fledgling heroes carried on the legacy of their older counterparts while charting their own path.
ADVERTISING [X]
The version of the Titans in the upcoming TV series has far more in common with the relaunch of the heroes in the 1980s run of The New Teen Titans by Marv Wolfman and George Perez, in which Raven, Starfire, and Cyborg were created. To date, very little is known about the new DC Universe series. In July, DC Entertainment released the show’s first trailer. Not all fan reactions have been positive, partly because of the violence and the depiction of the characters — since the omission of “teen” from the title, that shouldn’t be too surprising. We’ll examine what the trailer, the cast and the creators behind Titans reveal; we’ll also speculate about what we hope will be true when the show premieres.
CONTINUE SCROLLING TO KEEP READING
Click the button below to start this article in quick view
START NOW
ADVERTISING [X]
21. KNOW: BRAD ANDERSON WILL DIRECT
Veteran director, Brad Anderson, will direct at least the Titans pilot. This is good news because it shows a willingness on the part of DC to put some serious money to make the best show possible. Anderson is best known for his work on the popular television series Fringe. He’s also worked on the Emmy-winning The Wire, and the critically-acclaimed movie The Machinist, featuring Christian Bale.
In a recent interview, Brad Anderson admits that he’s not very familiar with comic books in general, and that’s what drew him to the series. He also reveals that one of the reasons DC hired him is because they wanted a more “grounded and real show with real characters who happen to have superhero qualities.”
20. HOPE: TRIGON WON’T BE THE VILLAIN
Trigon is one of the Teen Titans’ most iconic villains. He’s a giant, horned demon who also happens to be the father of one of the Titans, Raven. Based on the title of the first episode, “Hell on Earth,” it’s a possibility that Trigon will be the team’s first nemesis.
Considering DC’s history with CGI villains, it’s probably not a good idea to use Trigon. One of the many flaws with Justice League is the use of the New God Steppenwolf. The CGI creation made for a two-dimensional villain that looked like a computer game character rather than a living, breathing enemy. Let’s hope DC has learned from its mistake and opt for a more down-to-earth choice, at least for the first story arc.
19. KNOW: IT WILL TELL THE TEAM’S ORIGINS
ADVERTISING [X]
When Titans premieres, the team of heroes won’t be assembled. In the comic book origin of the Wolfman and Perez version, the Titans fight an alien invasion after Dick Grayson, the first Robin, has nightmares foretelling the creation of the team. Inevitably, the heroes band together to form The New Teen Titans.
DC has been tight-lipped about the show’s stories. Based on the trailer and interviews with creators and actors, we know that the focus of the first season will be Raven; the other heroes will rally to her side to protect her. In addition, the titles of the first few episodes have surfaced, indicating that the team’s characters will gradually be introduced.
18. KNOW: IT WILL BE DARKER
The show isn’t called Teen Titans for a reason. This version of the younger heroes will be tougher and more violent than anything we’ve seen before. Considering the dark tone of director Brad Anderson’s previous works, such as Beirut and The Machinist in particular, it seems likely that the show will have a much gloomier quality.
Streaming services such as Netflix allow creators to incorporate elements of storytelling and mature themes that network shows can’t address. Although DC Universe will feature plenty of kid-friendly shows, it’s clear from the Titans trailer that the content of the show will appeal to an older demographic.
17. HOPE: ROBIN WILL FLY SOLO
ADVERTISING [X]
One of the reasons Young Justice works so well is that the teenage superheroes can shine with little to no interference from their mentors. Everyone knows that Robin is Batman’s sidekick, for example, and viewers don’t need a reminder. Over the years, Dick Grayson has starred in his own comic book series several times, either as Robin or Nightwing, proving that the character is strong enough to be a headliner.
Casting rumors suggest that Batman, or Bruce Wayne, might make an appearance in Titans. It would make sense for Bruce to show up in flashbacks, explaining how Dick Grayson became Robin. But Batman casts a large shadow and it’s hard to focus on Robin if we’re constantly reminded of the Dark Knight.
16. KNOW: THE INITIAL ROSTER
The Teen Titans began as a series about sidekicks coming into their own. Later versions, particularly The New Teen Titans, showcased characters who didn’t have mentors. After the premiere of the Titans trailer, we caught a glimpse of the team’s eventual lineup.
Raven comes to Robin asking for his help, and they become the linchpin for the team. The trailer also shows Beast Boy leaping at an enemy. Starfire, a powerful alien who becomes Robin’s girlfriend, is another addition. Judging by the trailer, the rest of the team will consist of a Hawk and Dove who can handle themselves quite well in a fight.
15. KNOW: ROBIN IS A COP
ADVERTISING [X]
The first indication that Titans won’t feature the youngest version of the characters is that Dick Grayson moonlights as a cop when he’s not Robin. The show’s creators have cast actress Lindsey Gort to play Detective Amy Rohrbach, who will be Dick Grayson’s partner.
In the comics, Amy is one of the few honest cops in Blüdhaven, a small city as infested with crime as Gotham. The character will be more than a guest star in at least the first season, which suggests that a lot of emphasis will be placed on Dick’s activities out of costume, or perhaps because there’ll be a romantic link with Robin.
14. KNOW: DOVE IS TOUGH
Hawk and Dove Titans Alan Ritchson and Minka Kelly
In comic books, Dove is part of a duo called Hawk and Dove. Predictably, Dove is a peace-loving hero who would rather avoid conflict. Based on the Titans trailer, this version of Dove will veer in a new, more violent direction.
Dove is seen fluidly pummeling her enemies. In an interview, the actress portraying Dove revealed that her background in ballet, gymnastics and jiu-jitsu will be incorporated in the character’s fighting style. The Dove in Titans will also be more grounded – she’ll have a super suit rather than powers. Although her costume will have wings, this Dove won’t have the ability to fly.
13. KNOW: BATMAN AND ROBIN DON’T GET ALONG
ADVERTISING [X]
When the trailer premiered, fans were shocked to see Robin battling street thugs. Dick Grayson is the first Robin and the sidekick most resembling Batman when it comes to his code of conduct. While Grayson is fighting, we hear bones cracking and witness Robin ruthlessly eliminating his foes.
The fight scene breaks almost every code of conduct Batman has established. When challenged, Robin angrily responds using an expletive, making it clear that this version of Robin could care less what Batman thinks. Time will tell whether the show will address this violent version of Robin, or whether fans will have to accept that Titans presents an alternate reality of a familiar character.
FEATURED
The 19 Most OP Onscreen Feats Of The Hulk (And 1 By Bruce Banner)
THE 19 MOST OP ONSCREEN FEATS OF THE HULK (AND 1 BY BRUCE BANNER)
REPORT: Star Trek 4 Loses Pine & Hemsworth Over Pay Dispute
REPORT: STAR TREK 4 LOSES PINE & HEMSWORTH OVER PAY DISPUTE
25 Superheroes Who Are Actually Rip-Offs (That Fans Keep Forgetting About)
25 SUPERHEROES WHO ARE ACTUALLY RIP-OFFS (THAT FANS KEEP FORGETTING ABOUT)
12. KNOW: DOOM PATROL IS IN THE FIRST SEASON
The Doom Patrol is DC’s team of misfits and outcasts. In comics and the animated Teen Titans, Beast Boy was a member of the team before joining the Teen Titans — it only makes sense that Titans will explore Beast Boy’s past. DC has released the titles of several episodes in the first season, and the Doom Patrol will make an early appearance.
Even before Titans is released and DC Universe is available, DC has announced that Doom Patrol will be one of the new shows available exclusively on the streaming service. According to the casting, this version of the Doom Patrol will be the classic, original team consisting of Robotman, Negative Man, Elasti-Girl, and Niles Caulder, the Chief.
11. KNOW: JASON TODD IS AROUND
ADVERTISING [X]
Episode seven of Titans is tentatively titled “Jason Todd.” Jason followed Dick as Robin, and in the comics, his career (and life) ended at the hands of the Joker. Jason reappeared as a darker, more violent anti-hero called the Red Hood — it’s still unclear what role Jason Todd will play in the show, and whether he’ll join the team.
Since Dick Grayson is no longer a teenager in Titans, it’s possible that Jason Todd will take over the mantle of Robin. This would be in-line with Dick’s progression into Nightwing. It would also allow Dick to play the mentor to the other, younger Titans and become the guiding force behind the team.
10. HOPE: BARBARA GORDON WILL JOIN
Barbara Gordon is the daughter of famed police commissioner James Gordon. Inspired by Batman’s vigilantism in a city overrun with crime, Barbara dons a cape and cowl and becomes Batgirl. She often partnered with the original Robin, Dick Grayson, since they’re both of similar age — gradually this crime-fighting partnership blossomed into romance.
Batgirl’s career ended abruptly at Joker’s hands, and she lost the ability to walk. Instead, she used her computer genius to become Oracle. If Barbara Gordon makes an appearance in Titans, we hope that it’s as Oracle. The team could use a set of eyes in the cyber world, and Barbara could play a similar role to Felicity in Arrow.
9. KNOW: DONNA TROY IS ON THE SHOW
donna troy
ADVERTISING [X]
In the team’s comic book history, Donna Troy is the first girl to join the Teen Titians. Donna is Wonder Woman’s protégé, with similar abilities of strength, endurance and flight. Although it’s not clear what role Donna will play, a later episode of Titans will be titled “Donna Troy.”
Based on what we know about Titans, Donna might be an odd fit for the show. The show’s creators have indicated that these heroes will be more grounded and human, relying on their fighting skills and technology rather than super powers. Throwing a character as powerful as Donna Troy into the mix might unbalance the team, but from what we know so far, Donna won’t be a regular member of Titans.
8. HOPE: NO ARROWVERSE CROSSOVER
Based on the tone of the first Titans trailer, it’s clear that this series will vary considerably from any other DC show. Currently, DC produces several network programs that spun out of Arrow and include Supergirl, Flash and Legends of Tomorrow. As these series enter their twilight years, it might not make much sense to have a crossover.
Greg Berlanti is a producer who’s worked on Arrow is also working on Titans. Although a crossover with the Arrowverse shows might be facilitated, we hope it won’t happen. These series have already established a tight connection — and based on the violent trailer, Titans might well operate in its own universe.
7. HOPE: DOOM PATROL WILL BE THE BEGINNING
doom patrol
ADVERTISING [X]
When it comes to crossovers, the Arrowverse shows have done a good job of integrating storylines and characters. With the DC Universe streaming service, new crossover possibilities exist. We already know that Doom Patrol will spin out of Titans, so it makes sense that Titans starts a new tradition, à la the Arrowverse.
Details of all the shows featured on DC Universe are slim. Other shows include Swamp Thing, Metropolis, and a rumored Hawk & Dove spinoff. Because of Beast Boy’s connection to both teams, a Titans and Doom Patrol crossover could be a regular occurrence; the Swamp Thing character might not be an easy fit in this world, but time will tell.
6. KNOW: THE ACOLYTE WILL BE A VILLAIN
Even diehard DC fans might have a hard time recalling the Acolyte. He first appeared in the original Young Justice comic book series in the 1990s. He seems demonic but he’s a human being trying to look inhuman; his motivations, like his history, have never been explored.
Although it might be an odd choice to use such an obscure villain, it also allows the show to forge their own nemesis for Titans. Expectations are always higher when TV shows or movies use well-established characters from the comic books; some villains also don’t translate well to the screen. At least with the Acolyte, fans can’t be outraged if the character is vastly different than the comic book version.
5. HOPE: HAWK WILL BE BETTER
ADVERTISING [X]
Hawk’s history dates to the 1960s. Hank Hall, aka Hawk, has always had a partner in Dove. In comics, the young heroes inherit powers from the Lords of Order and Chaos. Predictably, Hawk is an avatar of aggression and violence while Dove promotes peace and reason.
Because of his power set, Hawk is often portrayed as a two-dimensional hero who responds to every challenge with anger and force. From what we know of Dove so far, her abilities might rely on her costume and abilities rather than any powers — and she appears far more violent in the trailer than her comic book incarnation. Hopefully this means that Hawk will be less the stereotype of a violent brawler.
4. HOPE: A HAWK & DOVE SPINOFF
It’s presumptuous to wish for a spinoff before the core show has yet to premiere, but the DC Universe streaming service will be light on content. To date, only four live-action have been revealed – Swamp Thing, Titans, Metropolis, and Doom Patrol. Another show would be a welcome addition for a service that will cost $74.99 US per year or $7.99 US a month.
Of course, DC will be testing the waters by premiering Hawk and Dove on Titans. Fan reaction will probably dictate whether the characters will have their own show. Because Hawk and Dove are more obscure than the other Teen Titans, it might allow DC Universe more freedom to explore their story.
3. KNOW: ANNA DIOP WILL LOOK THE PART OF STARFIRE
ADVERTISING [X]
Some toxic fandom surfaced when Anna Diop was cast as Starfire. After the release of set photos, where Starfire appeared to have a pink wig, and the premiere of the Titans trailer, some fans reacted with hate, which is unacceptable.
Thankfully Anna Diop has responded positively with her Twitter account. She reminded fans the set photos were untouched and that because Starfire is an alien, her look will be enhanced with CGI. From the glimpse we caught of Starfire in the trailer, and with the addition of movie magic, Diop will look as close as possible to an orange-skinned, energy projecting alien.
2. HOPE: ROY HARPER WILL APPEAR
Roy Harper, aka Arsenal, aka Red Arrow, is an integral part of Titans history. Because he’s a normal human relying on his incredible skills to fight with his super-powered colleagues, he’s a perfect fit for Titans, a show looking to focus on more grounded heroes. And considering the language of Robin in the trailer, Roy Harper’s rebellious nature might suit this darker version of the Titans.
Casting news suggests that there might be a place for Arsenal in the Titans lineup. The show is looking for a young, rebellious male who will cross paths with a crime fighter. This might be the part of Roy Harper, but he’s certainly not the only rebellious teenager in Titans lore.
1. HOPE: THE TRAILER IS JUST A NIGHTMARE
Batman-Slaps-Robin-Meme
ADVERTISING [X]
The Titans trailer generated considerable attention when it premiered. The Titans, and Robin especially, are shown wantonly using extreme means to dispose of their foes. The world presented seems bleak and dystopian, and not all that different in tone from Zack Snyder’s vision of DC heroes.
The recent trailer depicts several scenes with Raven. In comics, Raven has a history of seeing gloomy visions of probable futures. Perhaps the trailer presents one of these alternate realities, where the world has been infected with evil. Considering the less than successful darkening of some of DC’s superheroes in film, we hope that the trailer is just one nightmare and that the Titans will be more heroic than ruthless.
08.05.2018
by Danny Budge
The Teen Titans have become one of DC’s best known and loved properties, with two animated series and an animated movie just released. It’s no surprise that DC Universe, Warner Bros.’ new streaming service, will launch with its flagship live-action series, Titans. Although this version of the Titans will be less teen and more adult in tone, it will feature some of the young characters that have made the Titans famous. In their comic book form, the Teen Titans first premiered in 1964’s The Brave and the Bold #64, with founders Robin, Kid Flash, and Aqualad; Wonder Girl thereafter appeared, and the Titans became the Teen Titans. The book was always meant to appeal to young readers, showing how the fledgling heroes carried on the legacy of their older counterparts while charting their own path.
ADVERTISING [X]
The version of the Titans in the upcoming TV series has far more in common with the relaunch of the heroes in the 1980s run of The New Teen Titans by Marv Wolfman and George Perez, in which Raven, Starfire, and Cyborg were created. To date, very little is known about the new DC Universe series. In July, DC Entertainment released the show’s first trailer. Not all fan reactions have been positive, partly because of the violence and the depiction of the characters — since the omission of “teen” from the title, that shouldn’t be too surprising. We’ll examine what the trailer, the cast and the creators behind Titans reveal; we’ll also speculate about what we hope will be true when the show premieres.
CONTINUE SCROLLING TO KEEP READING
Click the button below to start this article in quick view
START NOW
ADVERTISING [X]
21. KNOW: BRAD ANDERSON WILL DIRECT
Veteran director, Brad Anderson, will direct at least the Titans pilot. This is good news because it shows a willingness on the part of DC to put some serious money to make the best show possible. Anderson is best known for his work on the popular television series Fringe. He’s also worked on the Emmy-winning The Wire, and the critically-acclaimed movie The Machinist, featuring Christian Bale.
In a recent interview, Brad Anderson admits that he’s not very familiar with comic books in general, and that’s what drew him to the series. He also reveals that one of the reasons DC hired him is because they wanted a more “grounded and real show with real characters who happen to have superhero qualities.”
20. HOPE: TRIGON WON’T BE THE VILLAIN
Trigon is one of the Teen Titans’ most iconic villains. He’s a giant, horned demon who also happens to be the father of one of the Titans, Raven. Based on the title of the first episode, “Hell on Earth,” it’s a possibility that Trigon will be the team’s first nemesis.
Considering DC’s history with CGI villains, it’s probably not a good idea to use Trigon. One of the many flaws with Justice League is the use of the New God Steppenwolf. The CGI creation made for a two-dimensional villain that looked like a computer game character rather than a living, breathing enemy. Let’s hope DC has learned from its mistake and opt for a more down-to-earth choice, at least for the first story arc.
19. KNOW: IT WILL TELL THE TEAM’S ORIGINS
ADVERTISING [X]
When Titans premieres, the team of heroes won’t be assembled. In the comic book origin of the Wolfman and Perez version, the Titans fight an alien invasion after Dick Grayson, the first Robin, has nightmares foretelling the creation of the team. Inevitably, the heroes band together to form The New Teen Titans.
DC has been tight-lipped about the show’s stories. Based on the trailer and interviews with creators and actors, we know that the focus of the first season will be Raven; the other heroes will rally to her side to protect her. In addition, the titles of the first few episodes have surfaced, indicating that the team’s characters will gradually be introduced.
18. KNOW: IT WILL BE DARKER
The show isn’t called Teen Titans for a reason. This version of the younger heroes will be tougher and more violent than anything we’ve seen before. Considering the dark tone of director Brad Anderson’s previous works, such as Beirut and The Machinist in particular, it seems likely that the show will have a much gloomier quality.
Streaming services such as Netflix allow creators to incorporate elements of storytelling and mature themes that network shows can’t address. Although DC Universe will feature plenty of kid-friendly shows, it’s clear from the Titans trailer that the content of the show will appeal to an older demographic.
17. HOPE: ROBIN WILL FLY SOLO
ADVERTISING [X]
One of the reasons Young Justice works so well is that the teenage superheroes can shine with little to no interference from their mentors. Everyone knows that Robin is Batman’s sidekick, for example, and viewers don’t need a reminder. Over the years, Dick Grayson has starred in his own comic book series several times, either as Robin or Nightwing, proving that the character is strong enough to be a headliner.
Casting rumors suggest that Batman, or Bruce Wayne, might make an appearance in Titans. It would make sense for Bruce to show up in flashbacks, explaining how Dick Grayson became Robin. But Batman casts a large shadow and it’s hard to focus on Robin if we’re constantly reminded of the Dark Knight.
16. KNOW: THE INITIAL ROSTER
The Teen Titans began as a series about sidekicks coming into their own. Later versions, particularly The New Teen Titans, showcased characters who didn’t have mentors. After the premiere of the Titans trailer, we caught a glimpse of the team’s eventual lineup.
Raven comes to Robin asking for his help, and they become the linchpin for the team. The trailer also shows Beast Boy leaping at an enemy. Starfire, a powerful alien who becomes Robin’s girlfriend, is another addition. Judging by the trailer, the rest of the team will consist of a Hawk and Dove who can handle themselves quite well in a fight.
15. KNOW: ROBIN IS A COP
ADVERTISING [X]
The first indication that Titans won’t feature the youngest version of the characters is that Dick Grayson moonlights as a cop when he’s not Robin. The show’s creators have cast actress Lindsey Gort to play Detective Amy Rohrbach, who will be Dick Grayson’s partner.
In the comics, Amy is one of the few honest cops in Blüdhaven, a small city as infested with crime as Gotham. The character will be more than a guest star in at least the first season, which suggests that a lot of emphasis will be placed on Dick’s activities out of costume, or perhaps because there’ll be a romantic link with Robin.
14. KNOW: DOVE IS TOUGH
Hawk and Dove Titans Alan Ritchson and Minka Kelly
In comic books, Dove is part of a duo called Hawk and Dove. Predictably, Dove is a peace-loving hero who would rather avoid conflict. Based on the Titans trailer, this version of Dove will veer in a new, more violent direction.
Dove is seen fluidly pummeling her enemies. In an interview, the actress portraying Dove revealed that her background in ballet, gymnastics and jiu-jitsu will be incorporated in the character’s fighting style. The Dove in Titans will also be more grounded – she’ll have a super suit rather than powers. Although her costume will have wings, this Dove won’t have the ability to fly.
13. KNOW: BATMAN AND ROBIN DON’T GET ALONG
ADVERTISING [X]
When the trailer premiered, fans were shocked to see Robin battling street thugs. Dick Grayson is the first Robin and the sidekick most resembling Batman when it comes to his code of conduct. While Grayson is fighting, we hear bones cracking and witness Robin ruthlessly eliminating his foes.
The fight scene breaks almost every code of conduct Batman has established. When challenged, Robin angrily responds using an expletive, making it clear that this version of Robin could care less what Batman thinks. Time will tell whether the show will address this violent version of Robin, or whether fans will have to accept that Titans presents an alternate reality of a familiar character.
FEATURED
The 19 Most OP Onscreen Feats Of The Hulk (And 1 By Bruce Banner)
THE 19 MOST OP ONSCREEN FEATS OF THE HULK (AND 1 BY BRUCE BANNER)
REPORT: Star Trek 4 Loses Pine & Hemsworth Over Pay Dispute
REPORT: STAR TREK 4 LOSES PINE & HEMSWORTH OVER PAY DISPUTE
25 Superheroes Who Are Actually Rip-Offs (That Fans Keep Forgetting About)
25 SUPERHEROES WHO ARE ACTUALLY RIP-OFFS (THAT FANS KEEP FORGETTING ABOUT)
12. KNOW: DOOM PATROL IS IN THE FIRST SEASON
The Doom Patrol is DC’s team of misfits and outcasts. In comics and the animated Teen Titans, Beast Boy was a member of the team before joining the Teen Titans — it only makes sense that Titans will explore Beast Boy’s past. DC has released the titles of several episodes in the first season, and the Doom Patrol will make an early appearance.
Even before Titans is released and DC Universe is available, DC has announced that Doom Patrol will be one of the new shows available exclusively on the streaming service. According to the casting, this version of the Doom Patrol will be the classic, original team consisting of Robotman, Negative Man, Elasti-Girl, and Niles Caulder, the Chief.
11. KNOW: JASON TODD IS AROUND
ADVERTISING [X]
Episode seven of Titans is tentatively titled “Jason Todd.” Jason followed Dick as Robin, and in the comics, his career (and life) ended at the hands of the Joker. Jason reappeared as a darker, more violent anti-hero called the Red Hood — it’s still unclear what role Jason Todd will play in the show, and whether he’ll join the team.
Since Dick Grayson is no longer a teenager in Titans, it’s possible that Jason Todd will take over the mantle of Robin. This would be in-line with Dick’s progression into Nightwing. It would also allow Dick to play the mentor to the other, younger Titans and become the guiding force behind the team.
10. HOPE: BARBARA GORDON WILL JOIN
Barbara Gordon is the daughter of famed police commissioner James Gordon. Inspired by Batman’s vigilantism in a city overrun with crime, Barbara dons a cape and cowl and becomes Batgirl. She often partnered with the original Robin, Dick Grayson, since they’re both of similar age — gradually this crime-fighting partnership blossomed into romance.
Batgirl’s career ended abruptly at Joker’s hands, and she lost the ability to walk. Instead, she used her computer genius to become Oracle. If Barbara Gordon makes an appearance in Titans, we hope that it’s as Oracle. The team could use a set of eyes in the cyber world, and Barbara could play a similar role to Felicity in Arrow.
9. KNOW: DONNA TROY IS ON THE SHOW
donna troy
ADVERTISING [X]
In the team’s comic book history, Donna Troy is the first girl to join the Teen Titians. Donna is Wonder Woman’s protégé, with similar abilities of strength, endurance and flight. Although it’s not clear what role Donna will play, a later episode of Titans will be titled “Donna Troy.”
Based on what we know about Titans, Donna might be an odd fit for the show. The show’s creators have indicated that these heroes will be more grounded and human, relying on their fighting skills and technology rather than super powers. Throwing a character as powerful as Donna Troy into the mix might unbalance the team, but from what we know so far, Donna won’t be a regular member of Titans.
8. HOPE: NO ARROWVERSE CROSSOVER
Based on the tone of the first Titans trailer, it’s clear that this series will vary considerably from any other DC show. Currently, DC produces several network programs that spun out of Arrow and include Supergirl, Flash and Legends of Tomorrow. As these series enter their twilight years, it might not make much sense to have a crossover.
Greg Berlanti is a producer who’s worked on Arrow is also working on Titans. Although a crossover with the Arrowverse shows might be facilitated, we hope it won’t happen. These series have already established a tight connection — and based on the violent trailer, Titans might well operate in its own universe.
7. HOPE: DOOM PATROL WILL BE THE BEGINNING
doom patrol
ADVERTISING [X]
When it comes to crossovers, the Arrowverse shows have done a good job of integrating storylines and characters. With the DC Universe streaming service, new crossover possibilities exist. We already know that Doom Patrol will spin out of Titans, so it makes sense that Titans starts a new tradition, à la the Arrowverse.
Details of all the shows featured on DC Universe are slim. Other shows include Swamp Thing, Metropolis, and a rumored Hawk & Dove spinoff. Because of Beast Boy’s connection to both teams, a Titans and Doom Patrol crossover could be a regular occurrence; the Swamp Thing character might not be an easy fit in this world, but time will tell.
6. KNOW: THE ACOLYTE WILL BE A VILLAIN
Even diehard DC fans might have a hard time recalling the Acolyte. He first appeared in the original Young Justice comic book series in the 1990s. He seems demonic but he’s a human being trying to look inhuman; his motivations, like his history, have never been explored.
Although it might be an odd choice to use such an obscure villain, it also allows the show to forge their own nemesis for Titans. Expectations are always higher when TV shows or movies use well-established characters from the comic books; some villains also don’t translate well to the screen. At least with the Acolyte, fans can’t be outraged if the character is vastly different than the comic book version.
5. HOPE: HAWK WILL BE BETTER
ADVERTISING [X]
Hawk’s history dates to the 1960s. Hank Hall, aka Hawk, has always had a partner in Dove. In comics, the young heroes inherit powers from the Lords of Order and Chaos. Predictably, Hawk is an avatar of aggression and violence while Dove promotes peace and reason.
Because of his power set, Hawk is often portrayed as a two-dimensional hero who responds to every challenge with anger and force. From what we know of Dove so far, her abilities might rely on her costume and abilities rather than any powers — and she appears far more violent in the trailer than her comic book incarnation. Hopefully this means that Hawk will be less the stereotype of a violent brawler.
4. HOPE: A HAWK & DOVE SPINOFF
It’s presumptuous to wish for a spinoff before the core show has yet to premiere, but the DC Universe streaming service will be light on content. To date, only four live-action have been revealed – Swamp Thing, Titans, Metropolis, and Doom Patrol. Another show would be a welcome addition for a service that will cost $74.99 US per year or $7.99 US a month.
Of course, DC will be testing the waters by premiering Hawk and Dove on Titans. Fan reaction will probably dictate whether the characters will have their own show. Because Hawk and Dove are more obscure than the other Teen Titans, it might allow DC Universe more freedom to explore their story.
3. KNOW: ANNA DIOP WILL LOOK THE PART OF STARFIRE
ADVERTISING [X]
Some toxic fandom surfaced when Anna Diop was cast as Starfire. After the release of set photos, where Starfire appeared to have a pink wig, and the premiere of the Titans trailer, some fans reacted with hate, which is unacceptable.
Thankfully Anna Diop has responded positively with her Twitter account. She reminded fans the set photos were untouched and that because Starfire is an alien, her look will be enhanced with CGI. From the glimpse we caught of Starfire in the trailer, and with the addition of movie magic, Diop will look as close as possible to an orange-skinned, energy projecting alien.
2. HOPE: ROY HARPER WILL APPEAR
Roy Harper, aka Arsenal, aka Red Arrow, is an integral part of Titans history. Because he’s a normal human relying on his incredible skills to fight with his super-powered colleagues, he’s a perfect fit for Titans, a show looking to focus on more grounded heroes. And considering the language of Robin in the trailer, Roy Harper’s rebellious nature might suit this darker version of the Titans.
Casting news suggests that there might be a place for Arsenal in the Titans lineup. The show is looking for a young, rebellious male who will cross paths with a crime fighter. This might be the part of Roy Harper, but he’s certainly not the only rebellious teenager in Titans lore.
1. HOPE: THE TRAILER IS JUST A NIGHTMARE
Batman-Slaps-Robin-Meme
ADVERTISING [X]
The Titans trailer generated considerable attention when it premiered. The Titans, and Robin especially, are shown wantonly using extreme means to dispose of their foes. The world presented seems bleak and dystopian, and not all that different in tone from Zack Snyder’s vision of DC heroes.
The recent trailer depicts several scenes with Raven. In comics, Raven has a history of seeing gloomy visions of probable futures. Perhaps the trailer presents one of these alternate realities, where the world has been infected with evil. Considering the less than successful darkening of some of DC’s superheroes in film, we hope that the trailer is just one nightmare and that the Titans will be more heroic than ruthless.