Another week, another director departs a superhero franchise following "creative differences." According to THR, Rick Famuyiwa has walked away from the upcoming 2018 blockbuster The Flash. As you might have guessed, for the very same reasons given by Tim Miller last week during his departure from Ryan Reynolds and the folks at Deadpool 2.
Now it is DC's turn for a bit of chaos behind the scenes, seeing a talented filmmaker abandon a project that has a lot riding on it. Warner Brothers believed they were onto a good thing when they secured Famuyiwa. Especially following on from his Sundance smash hit Dope. The studio is now left scampering for a replacement as preproduction steps up a gear. Filming is expected to be pushed back as a result, as well as the initial release date of March 16, 2018.
Famuyiwa Loved The Characters
This is more than a setback for Famuyiwa, who had already secured a number of the cast to mold the picture into something that was in his personal image. Kiersey Clemons and Billy Crudup were given his tick of approval in leading roles. Meaning the director already knows he is walking away from something that could be really big.
"When I was approached by Warner Bros and DC about the possibility of directing The Flash," recalls Famuyiwa. "I was excited about the opportunity to enter this amazing world of characters that I loved growing up, and still do to this day."
Director Wanted A Chance To Work With Miller
But it would be the new kid on the block the director wanted to guide through the process most, understanding his talent and responsibility he had on his shoulders at a tender age.
"I was also excited to work with Ezra Miller, who is a phenomenal young actor," said Famuyiwa. "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."
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