Dope helmer Rick Famuyiwa has bowed out of The Flash, according to The Hollywood Reporter, and is the second director to do so after Seth Grahame-Smith.
Citing “creative differences” between Warner Bros. and Famuyiwa – the same reason that was given after Grahame-Smith’s departure, mind you – it’s a disappointing setback for the 2018 standalone pic, particularly considering that the up-and-coming filmmaker has been attached to The Flash since June, overseeing the casting of both Kiersey Clemons and Alien: Covenant star Billy Crudup. With a March 2017 start date in the cards, expect WB to start casting the net far and wide in search of a replacement.
Though Warner is yet to issue an official statement, sources close to THR claim that Famuyiwa’s “edgier” vision was at odds with what the studio has in mind for Ezra Miller’s solo outing. The jury’s still out on that one but here, the filmmaker expresses his gratitude at being offered the opportunity in the first place.
“When I was approached by Warner Bros and DC about the possibility of directing The Flash, I was excited about the opportunity to enter this amazing world of characters that I loved growing up, and still do to this day,” said Famuyiwa in a statement to THR. “I was also excited to work with Ezra Miller, who is a phenomenal young actor. I pitched a version of the film in line with my voice, humor, and heart. While it’s disappointing that we couldn’t come together creatively on the project, I remain grateful for the opportunity. I will continue to look for opportunities to tell stories that speak to a fresh generational, topical, and multicultural point of view. I wish Warner Brothers, DC, Jon Berg, Geoff Johns, and Ezra Miller all the best as they continue their journey into the speed force.”
The Scarlet Speedster’s journey to the big screen has been fraught with setbacks, but for now, The Flash remains penciled in for release on March 16, 2018. Stay tuned for more.
