THR is reporting that Dope helmer Rick Famuyiwa has exited Warner Bros. DC solo move The Flash, with the filmmaker parting ways due to creative differences after his plans to make “a movie with more edge” clashed with the studio’s vision.
“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,” said Famuyiwa. “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 search is on for Famuyiwa’s replacement, but with filming slated to get underway in March 2017 and star Ezra Miller committed to another project from July, it’s likely that production – and the film’s March 2018 release – will be pushed back.
Famuyiwa is the second director to leave The Flash after Seth Grahame-Smith, who also departed due to creative differences. He had been attached to the project since June, casting Dope’s Kiersey Clemons as Iris West and Billy Crudup as Henry Allen.
Originally published October 31, 2016. Updated April 15, 2018.
