THE FLASH Loses DOPE Director Rick Famuyiwa; Release Likely Delayed
Breaking news out of Warner Bros. today, as Dope director Rick Famuyiwa has left the studio's upcoming DC adventure, The Flash, becoming the second director to exit the project. Come check it out!
The Hollywood Reporter has learned that Warner Bros.' upcoming The Flash solo feature, which stars Ezra Miller (Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them), has lost its director Rick Famuyiwa (Dope) over creative differences.
This news should undoubtedly come as a shocker, as Famuyiwa, who has been attached since June, was actively involved in the pre-production process and played an integral part in casting both Kiersey Clemons (Justice League) as Iris West and Billy Crudup (Watchmen) as Henry Allen. He now becomes the second director to exit the project after Seth Grahame-Smith, who left in late April.
According to THR's report, Famuyiwa hoped to make a movie with a much edgier take on the Scarlet Speedster, but was met with considerable resistance from the studio, which probably shouldn't come as a huge surprise considering they had already been burned twice by edgier superhero movies just this year.
Following the announcement, Famuyiwa released a statement:
"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.
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 timing of Famuyiwa's departure is quite unfortunate and while not official, will likely lead to the expected March 2017 production start date being pushed to an undetermined future window, possibly even to 2018 as Miller already has a commitment lined up for July of next year. The later start date would also mean that the March 16, 2018 release would inevitably have to be moved to a undetermined future date as well.
So, what do you guys think? Sound off with your thoughts below!