DC have launched details of their forthcoming subscription TV service, DC Universe, including some interesting and surprising new details.

Alongside already announced new live-action series, including Titans, Swamp Thing and Doom Patrol, as well as animated fare such as animated series Young Justice: Outsiders and a fan-pleasing Harley Quinn show, the service will include back catalogue DC material such as the Christopher Reeves Superman films and the entire run of Batman films, alongside classic live action and animated shows including Wonder Woman and Batman: The Animated Series.

The service will feature a selection of animated movies including, Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox, Green Lantern: First Flight, and Wonder Woman.

Somewhat more surprisingly, the channel will operate as a storefront for DC, offering a curated library of digital comic books – 1938’s Action Comics No. 1 through to 2011’s New 52 – a whole range of DC collectibles and even a community space which will include a fan forum. There will be a ‘Breaking News’ section and viewers will be given early access areas to DC-related events and games.

An official statement announced:

“DC Universe is so much more than a streaming service. It’s a welcoming place for everyone to immerse themselves in their own level of DC fandom, with the epic characters, stories, and experiences they have come to expect from DC,” said Jim Lee, chief creative officer and publisher, DC Entertainment, in a statement. “We are investing in and creating original, high-quality shows including the new Titans series, and curating the most beloved nostalgic content, while at the same time elevating the comic reading experience to new heights. Nothing this robust has ever been offered to fans before.”

Whatever else happens with this intriguing new service, DC certainly can’t be faulted for its ambition. Whether or not there are enough punters willing to stump up hard-earned cash for such specific content remains to be seen, and it’s for sure Disney will be keeping a close eye on this before the release of their own streaming channel.

DC Universe is due to launch in beta mode in August, with a full launch soon after.