New Line President Talks SHAZAM’s Tone And Dwayne Johnson’s Take On Black Adam

Earlier today, it was announced that Dwayne Johnson is set to play villain/antihero Black Adam in Warner Bros.’ Shazam movie, confirming years of speculation and fans’ wishes. The film is one of a number of DC adaptations in the works, but as of right now, it’s the only one that’s being produced by New Line Cinema. And now, we have new details on the superhero film from New Line’s president, Toby Emmerich.

Speaking with Entertainment Weekly, Emmerich affirmed that Shazam will be different from other superhero movies, including both Marvel and DC. “It feels to me like Shazam will have a tone unto itself. It’s a DC comic, but it’s not a Justice League character, and it’s not a Marvel comic. The tone and the feeling of the movie will be different from the other range of comic book movies.” He then comments on the film’s tone, confirming that it “will have a sense of fun and a sense of humor. But the stakes have to be real.” This should put to rest the rumors of Warner Bros. establishing a “no jokes” policy for its DC movies, which is an idea to ludicrous to believe from the start. Additionally, Emmerich wouldn’t address the potential presence of characters such as Mary Marvel and Captain Marvel, Jr.

Talk then turned to the casting of Johnson as Black Adam, a character that the wrestler-turned-actor has wanted to play for years. Describing Shazam‘s version as an antihero, Emmerich compares Johnson’s take to his character in the Fast & Furious films. “Black Adam is a complex character. The villain in superhero movies is often, I think, what makes the movie. And I thought Dwayne’s take on the character, and the way that he saw Black Adam, was really compelling and fun.” While the role of Shazam is yet to be cast, Johnson’s involvement will surely generate excitement among audiences.

Shazam will be written by Darren Lemke, while a director isn’t attached yet. A release date has yet to be confirmed, but don’t be surprised if it’s one of the reserved DC dates in 2016 or 2017. Stay tuned for more news as we have it.