Azrael (2024) is an anticipated film that could be part of the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) or could stand alone, depending on the direction it takes. Based on the character Azrael from DC Comics, this film would likely explore the darker side of Gotham and dive into themes of vengeance, justice, and morality. Azrael, a complex character in the Batman universe, is often portrayed as a morally ambiguous anti-hero, which makes him an intriguing figure for a movie.

Background on Azrael:

Azrael is the alter-ego of Jean-Paul Valley, a character who was introduced in Batman: Sword of Azrael (1992). Jean-Paul is a former assassin who becomes a highly trained vigilante, eventually taking up the mantle of Azrael, a role given to him by the Order of St. Dumas, a secretive group with a religious, almost knightly mission. Azrael’s backstory is one filled with violence, mental struggles, and a complex relationship with morality, making him a perfect candidate for a darker superhero film.

In some storylines, Azrael even replaces Batman temporarily, adopting a more brutal and unrestrained form of justice that brings him into conflict with Gotham’s other protectors, including Batman himself. His storyline is often tied to themes of control, redemption, and identity, making his character a fascinating exploration of the cost of justice.

Story:

While specific plot details for Azrael (2024) are yet to be confirmed, here’s a speculative outline of the direction the film could take:

1. Origin Story:
   • The film could start by focusing on Jean-Paul Valley’s origin story, showing his upbringing as a product of the secretive Order of St. Dumas. His training in combat and indoctrination into the group’s violent teachings would be a central part of the narrative. The story could delve into his internal struggle, as he becomes aware of his violent tendencies and the morality of his missions.
   • His initial encounter with Batman and the broader Gotham City could set the stage for his eventual decision to break from his past and take on the identity of Azrael. The film could explore how his mental instability, induced by the training and programming of the Order, leads him down a dangerous path.
2. Azrael as a Vigilante:
   • After embracing his new identity as Azrael, Jean-Paul might attempt to fill the void left in Gotham following Batman’s absence or as a protector of Gotham’s innocent citizens. However, his methods, which often border on brutal and lethal, would put him at odds with Batman and other members of Gotham’s superhero community.
   • Azrael’s inner conflict between carrying out justice and maintaining his humanity could form a significant part of the narrative. His actions could create a ripple effect in Gotham, with both allies and enemies questioning his methods and whether he can truly be trusted.
3. Conflict with Batman:
   • If Azrael is part of the larger DCEU, Batman (likely played by a familiar actor or a new version of the character) could play a central role in the story. As the established protector of Gotham, Batman may find himself clashing with Azrael, questioning his brutal methods and dangerous pursuit of justice.
   • The film could feature an intense battle between the two, with Batman trying to rein in Azrael’s dangerous tendencies while Azrael sees Batman as weak or constrained by his moral code. This ideological conflict between them would provide plenty of action and emotional depth as they both represent different sides of justice.
4. Exploration of Redemption:
   • Throughout the film, Jean-Paul’s desire for redemption could serve as a central arc. While he is driven by a thirst for justice, he may come to realize that his violent methods are damaging both himself and those around him. His journey could focus on whether he can reconcile his violent past with his desire to protect Gotham, ultimately leading him to confront the darkness within himself.
   • A key emotional turning point could involve Azrael’s decision to either break free from his programming or embrace his darker tendencies, setting up a path toward either salvation or further corruption.
5. Antagonist:
   • The film might feature an antagonist tied to the Order of St. Dumas or a rival group that opposes Azrael’s interpretation of justice. Alternatively, a villain like The Order’s leader or a Gotham criminal mastermind might rise to challenge Azrael’s growing influence.
   • Another option is introducing a more personal antagonist who challenges Azrael’s sense of identity and purpose, pushing him to confront the contradictions in his mission and beliefs.

Themes:

• Justice vs. Vengeance: The central theme of Azrael would be the contrast between justice and vengeance. Azrael’s methods are far more extreme than those of Batman, and the film could explore the philosophical differences between them—how far can one go in the name of justice before crossing the line into vengeance?
• Morality and Identity: Jean-Paul’s internal battle with his identity and morality would be key. His journey from a pawn of the Order of St. Dumas to a more independent figure, struggling with his past actions and current goals, would provide emotional depth to the story.
• Redemption and Corruption: Azrael’s potential for redemption or further corruption could serve as an arc throughout the movie. This theme would explore whether someone with a violent, troubled past can truly change or if they are doomed to be consumed by it.

Characters:

• Jean-Paul Valley / Azrael: The protagonist, struggling with his violent past and the burden of the Azrael identity. His internal conflict and quest for redemption will be central to the plot.
• Batman: The established hero of Gotham, Batman may serve as a mentor, antagonist, or ally, pushing Azrael to examine his methods and beliefs about justice.
• The Order of St. Dumas: The secret society that trained Azrael. This organization could be a significant influence in the plot, either serving as the antagonist or a backdrop to Azrael’s personal struggles.
• Supporting Characters: There could be new characters introduced to help or hinder Azrael’s journey, such as a love interest or a mentor figure who challenges his worldview. Gotham’s other vigilantes and heroes (like Batgirl, Nightwing, or Robin) could also appear to further develop Azrael’s relationship with the city’s defenders.

Visual Style:

• The film would likely have a darker, grittier visual style to match Azrael’s intense and violent nature. Expect intense, high-energy action sequences, particularly as Azrael goes head-to-head with Gotham’s criminal underworld and potentially with Batman.
• Gotham City itself could have a more moody, gothic look, with elements of both urban decay and medieval-inspired iconography to match Azrael’s backstory as a knightly figure.

Music:

• The soundtrack could feature a brooding, orchestral score with intense action themes. The music would reflect the dark, gothic nature of Azrael’s world and the emotional depth of his internal conflict, possibly incorporating a more heavy or industrial sound for action sequences.

Tone:

• The tone of Azrael (2024) would likely be darker and more mature than typical superhero films, exploring the psychological complexities of its protagonist. With themes of justice, morality, and redemption, the film would have a serious tone, though it could also feature thrilling, fast-paced action scenes to keep the audience engaged.

Overall Expectations:

Azrael (2024) would be an intense, action-packed film exploring a morally complex character in the DC universe. With an engaging mix of psychological drama, action, and philosophical themes, it would offer a fresh take on the vigilante genre, focusing on the dark side of justice and the struggle for redemption. Fans of Batman and the Batman universe will find this film intriguing, as it offers a deeper dive into a character who has often been overshadowed by other members of Gotham’s vast mythos. The film could open the door to more stories within this dark and complex corner of the DC universe.