Warner loses ‘The Flash’ director over ‘creative differences’

Warner Bros.’ The Flash will be slowed down by its inability to hold on to a director. Dope helmer Rick Famuyiwa has just dropped out of the DC superhero project citing the old standby excuse, “creative differences.”

Famuyiwa issued a statement to The Hollywood Reporter about his exit: “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.”

He then star Ezra Miller, who has made cameos as Flash thus far.

“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 move will certainly delay the film’s production and, subsequently, its release.

Ezra Miller in “Suicide Squad” taking down Jai Courtney’s Captain Boomerrang

Famuyiwa is actually the second director The Flash has lost in a year — he signed on in June to replace Seth Grahame-Smith, who had departed in April.

While nothing was official, the “creative differences” might have been Famuyiwa’s vision had “more edge” than Warner Bros. wanted. In that light, his statement could be interpreted as subtly calling out Warner Bros. for their apparent disinterest in “stories that speak to a fresh generational, topical, and multicultural point of view.”

The Flash was on track to start shooting in March 2017 for release in March 2018. However, Miller has other commitments in summer 2017 (the Fantastic Beasts sequel) so he can’t just wait around for a new director to take his time getting situated.

Joining Miller in the cast was Kiersey Clemons as Iris West and Billy Crudup as Henry Allen. In addition, Ray Fisher was expected to reprise his role as Victor Stone a.k.a. Cyborg. Fisher can’t really be recast since he’s already appeared in Batman v Superman and Justice League.