The Flash movie has lost Dope director Rick Famuyiwa to “creative differences,” The Hollywood Reporter has revealed.
Famuyiwa has been a part of the development since joining the team in June. The movie was in pre-production, scheduled for a March 2017 start date and a March 16, 2018 release date. It’s unknown whether or not the studio will be keeping to this schedule now.
Famuyiwa’s departure throws a wrench in the works, since lead actor Ezra Miller (Barry Allen) is committed to another project in July. Similar issues occurred with the Wonder Woman movie, though director Michelle MacLaren was quickly replaced by Patty Jenkins, causing no hiccup to the production schedule.
"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,” Famuyiwa said 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."
THR’s sources report that the Dope director hoped for an edgier take than studio Warner Bros was comfortable with.
This makes Famuyiwa the second director to leave Flash after Seth Grahame-Smith, the script’s writer (and beleaguered writer of Pride and Prejudice and Zombies ) who was attached to make his directorial debut as well.
Marvel and Disney’s Black Panther movie also had similar trouble keeping a director: Ava DuVernay passed due to creative control problems and F. Gary Gray ( Straight Outta Compton ) passed on the opportunity as well before Creed and Fruitvale Station director Ryan Coogler took the mantle.
Warner Bros’ next superhero film, Wonder Woman, is still on track for a June 2, 2017 release date.
Are you concerned about The Flash losing Famuyiwa as director? Still psyched to see more of Warner Bros’ extended cinematic universe? Feel free to discuss The Flash movie in our comments section below.
