While far from perfect, Titans is an interesting case study in how to do grimdark better than the Snyder model -- confronting and acknowledging the darkness as part and parcel of plot and character, rather than simply using it as set dressing.
It's still clearly situated in the DC Murderverse, but the characters grapple with it directly, in every episode.
Which is one of several reasons why I am excited to see this, even though I am completely certain it's going to be a dream/imaginary story/supernatural morality test
