HBO Max is preparing to launch a new eight-episode mockumentary series titled The People v. Gorilla Grodd. Set within the DC Universe established by James Gunn, the show follows Jimmy Olsen as he investigates a controversial murder trial in Metropolis .
The American Vandal blueprint for DC storytelling
DC Studios is expanding its cinematic universe through an experimental, non-traditional lens. Rather than a standard action-heavy narrative, the upcoming series will utilize a mockumentary format to explore the legal and social complexities of the DCU.
Showrunners Tony Yacenda and Dan Perrault are leveraging their experience from the satirical series American Vandal to shape this project. As the announcement states, the creators intend to use a documentary-style approach to parody or examine true-crime storytellnig within a fictional superhero setting.
Jimmy Olsen reopens the King of Gorilla City murder case
The central conflict of the series involves the superintelligent ape Gorilla Grodd and his alleged involvement in a high-profile crime. According to the report , the plot centers on Grodd being convicted of murdering his own father, the King of Gorilla City.
Metropolis reporter Jimmy Olsen serves as the primary investigator in this eight-episode arc. he seeks to determine if the trial was a miscarriage of justice , turning a legendary DC character's backstory into a grounded, investigative procedural.
A returning Daily Planet cast for an eight-episode run
Skyler Gisondo will lead the cast in the role of Jimmy Olsen, providing the human perspective for the investigation. The production also features a mix of new talent and returning characters to anchor the show in the established Metropolis setting .
The ensemble includes Jimmy Tatro as Gorilla Grodd, alongside Beck Bennett , Mikaela Hoover, and Wendell Pierce. These actors will reprise their roles as Steve Lombard, Cat Grant, and Perry White, respectively, ensuring the series feels like a seamless extension of the world seen in James Gunn's Superman.
The challenge of treating the DCU as a historical artifact
Showrunners Tony Yacenda and Dan Perrault aim to create a series that feels less like a standard entry and more like a "historical artifact" from within the DCU. This meta-textual approach seeks to treat the superhero world as a lived-in reality that can be studied through media like the Daily Planet original documentaries.
However, several details regarding the production remain unverified . It is currently unknown how much traditional superhero action will be present compared to the mockumentary dialogue, and the report does not clarify if the series will feature other Justice League members. Furthermore, it remains to be seen if the investigation will delve into the specific political structures of Gorilla City or remain focused on the Metropolis courtroom.
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