Introducing The Terrifics: Superman’s Mister Terrific’s Epic Spinoff Series

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Among the Justice Gang heroes debuted in Superman, Mister Terrific, portrayed by Edi Gathegi, undeniably stole the show with his impressive action sequences and witty dialogue (apologies to Clark Kent). Lately, there have been whispers that James Gunn might be contemplating a solo Mister Terrific project. However, the specifics of this potential venture remain unclear; it could be a film, but we believe an HBO Max series would better showcase his talents. Furthermore, instead of just a Mister Terrific series, we propose adapting the DC Comics 2018-2020 series The Terrifics, featuring Mister Terrific as team leader, would be even more compelling. Notably, one of the team members, Metamorpho, is already part of the DC Universe. It appears that James Gunn may be laying the groundwork for this concept within the DCU.

The DC Comics Backstory of Mister Terrific

In the comic books, Mister Terrific is portrayed as the third most intelligent person in the world, with Lex Luthor and Bruce Wayne ahead of him. While it’s subjective, we believe that DCU Mister Terrific surpasses DCU Lex in terms of intelligence. Originally known as Michael Holt, this character is a brilliant billionaire who suffered a tragic loss of his wife. Despairing and considering suicide, he was saved by the supernatural entity, the Spectre, who motivated him to channel his intellect and wealth into becoming a superhero. It’s unclear whether the DCU version of Mister Terrific shares this exact backstory, but we assume that the fundamental aspects of his origin remain consistent.

The Formation of The Terrifics Team

I, Mister Terrific, put together our team upon discovering billionaire Simon Stagg’s scheme to open a gateway into the Dark Multiverse, utilizing his son-in-law Metamorpho’s ability to transform into Nth Metal for this purpose. Realizing the potential danger, Plastic-Man and I attempted to compel Stagg to shut down this portal. However, our efforts were in vain as we all ended up being pulled into it instead. Within this mysterious realm, we encountered Phantom Girl, a relative of the Legion of Super-Heroes’ member from the 31st century. Upon our first encounter, she shared her unique existence – she had been in an ethereal state since childhood.

Following their return from exile in the Dark Multiverse, these four meta-beings were mysteriously linked. If any of them strayed too far from the rest, they would inexorably be pulled back together. Their experience in the Dark Multiverse had forged an indissoluble bond among the group. With this newfound unity, they employed Simon Stagg’s facility to delve into the Dark Multiverse as a cohesive unit. The comic book series The Terrifics, initially penned by Jeff Lemire and illustrated by Ivan Reis, spanned just 30 issues. Despite its brief lifespan, it earned an ardent fanbase. And to this day, it maintains a dedicated cult following. It presents an ideal blueprint for a potential live-action series.

The Terrifics Is DC Comics’ Homage to the Fantastic Four

It’s clear that the The Terrifics comic book series serves as DC Comics’ nod to Marvel’s iconic Fantastic Four. This team of four heroes, headed by one of the world’s brightest minds, are bound together by a cosmic event, functioning more like explorers than typical superheroes. While their powers may differ from those of the Fantastic Four, there are undeniable similarities. For instance, Plastic Man possesses elastic abilities much like Mr. Fantastic, but he also has a playful and goofy side reminiscent of Human Torch. Phantom Girl resembles Invisible Woman, while Metamorpho represents the team’s tragic “outsider,” similar to the Thing, and serves as the muscle of the group. Furthermore, much like The Incredibles, it pays a heartfelt tribute to Marvel’s First Family.

How the Terrifics Could Exist in the DCU

In the DC Universe, how do we envision the Terrifics functioning? It’s evident that Stagg Industries is present in this universe, as evidenced by Superman entering a Stagg building following Luthor’s public downfall in Superman. Rather than delving into the “Dark Multiverse” – a concept that might not align with James Gunn’s approach considering the current multiverse saturation in both the MCU and DC’s Flash film – we propose that Stagg’s experiments could transport the Terrifics to various realms, not just alternate Earths.

Regarding the newcomers in the cast, Ben Schwartz has expressed his enthusiasm for portraying Plastic Man, and a series or movie based on The Terrifics could be just the opportunity he needs. Similarly, Pom Klementieff, one of James Gunn’s previous Guardians of the Galaxy stars, would make an excellent Phantom Girl. With such a promising setup, it seems that DC Studios is poised for a fantastic adaptation of The Terrifics. Here’s to hoping that James Gunn manages to bring this team to life on screen.

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2025-07-17 02:03