DC Entertainment is making a standalone film for its number one assassin, Deathstroke. While the internet is rejoicing about it, some are wondering what this means for the upcoming "Justice League."
The Hollywood Reporter reported on Wednesday that the gnarly supervillain with super strength and incredible stamina is getting his own movie. No deal has been made at the moment. However, the studio is reportedly in negotiations with "The Raid" director Gareth Evans to helm the movie, which would star "Magic Mike" actor Joe Manganiello.
Manganiello has been attached to the role for a while now. Originally, he was rumored to make a cameo in "Justice League" and become the central villain in Ben Affleck's solo Batman film. It is unclear whether he is still attached to the latter project since Affleck stepped back from directorial duties earlier this year, but as far as the epic team-up movie is concerned, Manganiello was already seen in costume in a "Justice League" test footage that surfaced previously.
Director Zack Snyder also posted a behind-the-scenes photo of him last year seemingly on the "Justice League set." He was wearing one of Batman's gauntlets working on what looked to be a storyboard featuring a scene with Deathstroke. Per Comic Book, the assassin's signature eye patch and swords can be seen from the tablet when zoomed in, suggesting he will be included in the movie.
The problem, however, is that Affleck is no longer helming the Batman movie. He was replaced by Matt Reeves who decided to start from scratch, meaning a new angle for the film's villain. "Justice League" underwent some reported changes of its own as well, with Steppenwolf (Ciarán Hinds) as the main antagonist. Thus, Manganiello's involvement is no longer guaranteed.
Of course, nothing has been confirmed to date. However, if he was ever involved at all, chances are DC may have cut him now that he is getting a film of his own. Fans will have to find out for themselves when "Justice League" premieres on Nov. 17.
