HBO Max is developing a documentary series exploring the 80-year history of DC Comics. HBO Max is expanding its catalog of DC properties, with the upcoming Peacemaker and a John Constantine series alongside films focused on Batgirl and Blue Beetle. While HBO Max has done a good job expanding the narrative adaptations, they have not delved into the rich real-life history behind the DC characters like Marvel has with documentary specials like Marvel's Behind the Mask and Marvel 616 on Disney+.
That will no longer be the case as The Imagineering Story director Leslie Iwerks is developing a three-part documentary series for HBO Max exploring the legacy and influence of almost nine decades of DC Comics. Iwerks is teaming up with producer Greg Berlanti, who produces various Arrowverse shows like Arrow, The Flash, and Supergirl. Jim Lee, Publisher and Chief Creative Officer at DC Comics, released a statement which can be read below.
“DC has a rich legacy of over 80 years of iconic storytelling: from the introduction of the genre defining Super Hero Superman in 1938 to the amazing movies, TV shows, cartoons, games and comics which have been synonymous with superheroism for generations thereafter. We are so excited to dive into this history and bring fans along this amazing journey."
Iwerks, the granddaughter of Mickey Mouse co-creator Ub Iwerks, is an accomplished documentarian. She was nominated for an Outstanding Nonfiction Special Emmy in 2008 for her documentary The Pixar Story. The Imagineering Story was one of the launch titles for Disney+ and earned critical acclaim and a large fanbase for its extensive look inside the history of Disney theme parks. More information on the project could be revealed at the upcoming DC FanDome event but it is clear her detailed, thoughtful work looking at the various Disney properties can certainly give fans of DC Comics hope they will get a rich and fulfilling documentary special.
Source: HBO Max