The world of DC is dark and full of terrors as established byMan of Steel, which struck a much darker tone with Superman than classical incarnations. DirectorZack Snyderreturns forBatman v Superman(out in theaters this week) andJustice League: Part One(filming this April), both of which are looking to be just as serious as the first film in this cinematic universe. If you’re hoping DC will lighten things up by the timeThe Flashmovie rolls around, Snyder’s recent comments might squash those dreams.
While out promotingBatman v Superman, the director spoke to theNew York Daily Newsabout why it wasn’t possible to castGrant Gustinas the cinema Flash. The actor portrays the scarlet speedster on the hit CW series, but Snyder said he was never on his radar for the film, suggesting his take is much too light for the world on the big screen.
I just don’t think it was a good fit. I’m very strict with this universe and I just don’t see a version where…that [tone is] not our world…Even if Grant Gustin is my favorite guy in the world and he’s very good, we made a commitment to the multi-verse [idea], so it’s just not a thing that’s possible.
Snyder, it should be noted, had a hand inSuicide Squad,Wonder Woman, and will be involved withAquamanandThe Flashas part of his DC duties.Ezra Miller(Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them) will portray The Flash in DC’s live-action film. Snyder’s comments clarify earlier statements made by22 Jump StreetdirectorsPhil LordandChris Miller, who aredeveloping the treatment.The duo remarked last yearthat they’re “trying to carve out space for the movie that’s apart from [the series].”
If you’re a fan of the darker tone of the DCEU, of which we’ll get more of a sense withBatman v Superman, then this isn’t the worst. But those who prefer the comics, animated film slate, and TV series will likely take issue. Barry Allen is typically the beacon of light and comedy of the Justice League, and – especially on theJustice Leagueanimated series – was a fast-talker with the ladies, with his celebrity status always on his radar. For argument’s sake,Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradoxfeatured the speedster in a much darker tale — so dark that Wonder Woman gutted Shazam’s child form, Billy Batson. That title is one of the better animated superhero films out there, so perhaps this news from Snyder is not the “all is lost” moment some might fear.
The Flashis scheduled for theaters on July 07, 2025, but Miller will feature inJustice League: Part Oneon August 04, 2025. As for the TV Flash, you can catch him Tuesday nights on the CW, and also teaming up withSupergirlMarch 28th on CBS.
