For the second time, DC's upcoming standalone feature "The Flash" has lost its director, with Rick Famuyiwa leaving the project this week.According to The Hollywood Reporter, Famuyiwa's decision to depart came down to a familiar excuse, with "creative differences" cited as the main factor for his exit. The director reportedly "clashed" with studio execs over his desire to make "a movie with more edge," per THR.
In a statement released to THR, Famuyiwa didn't delve into the specifics behind his departure, but praised the movie's titular star, studio, and producers. The statement said:
"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 Bros., DC, Jon Berg, Geoff Johns and Ezra Miller all the best as they continue their journey into the speed force."
Famuyiwa joined the film in June, and had overseen the casting of two key roles, to be played by Kiersey Clemons and Billy Crudup. He had taken over for previous director Seth Grahame-Smith, who had joined the project back in October 2015, but subsequently left the flick earlier this year, also due to reported creative differences.
THR reports that production on "The Flash" -- and its subsequent release date -- will now most likely be delayed, since Miller has a commitment next summer that will conflict with the shifting shooting schedule. The flick was initially pegged to begin production in March 2017, and hit theaters on March 16, 2018.
Stay tuned to see who takes the directing gig next, and how this will affect DC's future release slate.
[via: The Hollywood Reporter]
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