'The Flash' movie loses director Rick Famuyiwa

Another day, another director leaves the DC Universe

Justin Carissimo
New York
Monday 31 October 2016 23:48 GMT
Director/writer Rick Famuyiwa from 'Dope' poses for a portrait at the Village at the Lift Presented by McDonald's McCafe during the 2015 Sundance Film Festival on January 24, 2015 in Park City, Utah.
Director/writer Rick Famuyiwa from 'Dope' poses for a portrait at the Village at the Lift Presented by McDonald's McCafe during the 2015 Sundance Film Festival on January 24, 2015 in Park City, Utah. (Larry Busacca/Getty)

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Rick Famuyiwa, the latest director of the upcoming The Flash film, has left the Warner Bros. and DC Entertainment project over creative differences, sources close to the studio told The Hollywood Reporter on Monday.

Famuyiwa, who oversaw the casting of key roles, is now the second director to make an early exit from the project after Seth Grahame-Smith left earlier in the year. The studio faced similar problems with its Wonder Woman film when Michelle MacLaren left and was replaced by Patty Jenkins.

“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,” Famuyiwa said in a statement obtained by Variety.

“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.”

Kiersey Clemons has been cast to play Iris West and Billy Crudup will portray Barry Allen’s father. The film is scheduled for production in early 2017 and to be released on March 16, 2018.

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