The Flash: Director Rick Famuyiwa Leaves Film
Another director has parted ways with a high-profile comic book, superhero movie project. Last week, it was Tim Miller leaving Deadpool 2. This week, Variety reports that director Rick Famuyiwa is leaving Warner Bros. and DC’s upcoming adaptation of The Flash.
According to the report, Famuyiwa left the project due to creative differences. Similar issues previously came up with Warner Bros. and Michelle MacLaren regarding the Wonder Woman film. She was later replaced by Patty Jenkins, and the film was able to move into production was scheduled. Famuyiwa is the second director to leave The Flash. Writer Seth Grahame-Smith was originally set to make his directorial debut, but he ultimately parted ways with the film. However, it’s set to still use the script he wrote for the film.
Warner Bros. hopes to have another director in line to replace Famuyiwa soon, but that remains to be seen. Famuyiwa said in a statement on the news:
“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 issue with Famuyiwa’s exit is that The Flash was supposed to start production early in 2017. So that leaves DC and WB scrambling to find a replacement very soon. Additionally, the film was far along in terms of casting, with Kiersey Clemons as Iris West, and Billy Crudup attached to play Henry Allen, the father of Barry Allen.
The Flash originally had a release date of March 16, 2018. However, if the film doesn’t line up a new director soon, it might not be able to meet its original start date and release date.