Now that Warner Bros. has successfully launched their DC Extended Universe with the blockbusterBatman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, the studio’s next installment will focus on a group of nefarious villains known as theSuicide Squad, which hits theaters on August 5. Part of that villainous ensemble isMargot Robbie’sHarley Quinn, a character which the studio is doubling down on by developing a spinoff.Margot Robbieis attached to both star in and produce the untitled movie, which won’t be a solo endeavor, but focuses on a number of other DC female heroes and villains such as Batgirl and Birds of Prey.
While Batgirl and the Birds of Prey haven’t been confirmed for this project yet,The Hollywood Reporterreveals that these characters have surfaced from their sources. There is also a writer attached to develop the project, and while the scribe’s identity was not revealed, the site did confirm that the writer is a female. In fact, this report goes on to reveal that it wasMargot Robbieherself who initiated the project and brought it to Warner Bros.
After landing the Harley Quinn role inSuicide Squad, the actress reportedly dove deep into the comics to research her character, and during that process, she became interested in the numerous other female characters who are showcased in theDC Comics. She brought on this unidentified writer herself to develop the project, before taking the project to Warner Bros., which was quickly acquired by the studio. It isn’t known if there is a director attached at this time, or when the studio may be aiming to release this project.
Harley Quinnwas originally created byPaul DiniandBruce TimmforBatman: The Animated Series, which debuted in September 1992. The character became so popular on the TV series she transitioned into the comics, making her first appearance inThe Batman Adventures#12, which debuted in September 1993. In the comics, she’s been frequently linked to The Joker, and the upcomingSuicide Squadmovie follows suit, with Harley reportedly serving as The Joker’s (Jared Leto) romantic interest. It remains to be seen ifJared Letowill reprise his role as The Joker for this untitled spinoff. It’s also worth noting thatJena Malonehas long been rumored to have played Barbara Gordon/BatgirlinBatman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, although her role was cut from the theatrical version. It is believed that her character will be featured in the upcoming R-rated extended edition of the movie, debuting later this year, but we don’t know for sure if she’s being eyed for this project.
Harley Quinnhas often been compared toDeadpool, since both characters in the comics often break the fourth wall and are known for their foul-mouthed and bizarre behavior. We don’t know for sure if Harley breaks the fourth wall in theSuicide Squadmovie, or if there are plans for her to do so in theHarley Quinn spinoff, but we’ll be sure to keep you posted with more details as soon as we have them. It’s also worth noting that Warner Bros.' is also reportedly eyeingSuicide Squad 2to start shooting in early 2017, withSuicide Squadwriter-directorDavid Ayerbeing eyed to return to the helm.
