Amidst the exciting changes within the DC universe under the new leadership of James Gunn and Peter Safran, several new movies originally envisioned as part of the previous DC Extended Universe (DCEU) continuity are set to hit theaters this year.
While we’ve already seen the second Shazam! installment and The Flash, all eyes are now on Blue Beetle. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what we know about Blue Beetle so far.
Blue Beetle Release Date
Mark your calendars, as Blue Beetle is scheduled for an exclusive worldwide theatrical release starting on August 16, 2023, with the U.S. and U.K. releases locked in for August 18, 2023.
Initially planned for a launch on HBO Max (now known as Max), Blue Beetle’s distribution strategy shifted due to Discovery’s takeover of Warner and its properties. The focus is now on theatrical releases, making cinemas the prime destination for enjoying the movie.
While the primary release is in theaters, it’s likely that Blue Beetle will also be available on Max later this year.
Blue Beetle Synopsis
Blue Beetle’s story kicks off with Jaime Reyes (played by Xolo Maridueña) returning to his hometown of Palmera City after completing college. However, his homecoming isn’t what he expects, and as he navigates adulthood, he stumbles upon an enigmatic ancient relic of extraterrestrial origin known as the Scarab.
The Scarab selects Jaime as its symbiotic host, granting him a cutting-edge suit of armor with extraordinary and sometimes unpredictable abilities, including weapon creation. Yet, malevolent forces are determined to obtain the Scarab. This is where Victoria Kord (portrayed by Susan Sarandon) and her henchmen come into play.
Director Angel Manuel Soto highlights the core of the story, centered around a Latino family, a fresh perspective within the superhero genre. Blue Beetle is a trailblazing superhero film, placing a Latino character, Jaime, at the forefront. Additionally, Jaime’s family members have significant roles in the narrative.
Over the decades, the Blue Beetle character has undergone evolution. From Dan Garret, who gained powers from a special vitamin and later a “sacred scarab,” to Ted Kord, who employed science to enhance his abilities. The Blue Beetle created by DC Comics, Jaime Reyes, derives his powers from the Scarab showcased in this film.
Cast of Blue Beetle
Leading the cast is Xolo Maridueña (known for Parenthood) as Jaime Reyes, aka Blue Beetle. He’s joined by a talented ensemble including Adriana Barraza (Rambo: Last Blood), Damián Alcázar (The Mighty Victoria), Elpidia Carrillo (featured in Guillermo del Toro’s Cabinet of Curiosities), Bruna Marquezine (Breaking Through), Raoul Max Trujillo (Sicario: Day of the Soldado), Susan Sarandon (Thelma & Louise), and George Lopez (The Tax Collector).
While the involvement of other prominent DC characters in the movie remains uncertain, Blue Beetle’s seamless integration into the new DC Studios continuity suggests minimal ties to the broader universe.
The journey of bringing Blue Beetle to the big screen has been remarkably smooth, a rarity in the world of major comic book projects today.
Gareth Dunnet-Alcocer (credited for Miss Bala) commenced scriptwriting before the close of 2018, during the tenure of former DC Films president Walter Hamada. In early 2021, Angel Manuel Soto (known for Charm City Kings) assumed the role of director, with filming taking place throughout the summer of 2022.
Cinematography duties were expertly handled by Pawel Pogorzelski, recognized for his work on films like Ari Aster’s Midsommar and Beau Is Afraid. The original soundtrack is composed by Bobby Krlic, a versatile artist whose credits include Midsommar and Beau Is Afraid.”