Among the films that are in active development in the DC Extended Universe is "Shazam!" and it is safe to say that the film has taken a while to get off the ground, like several other superhero properties that have already made their way to the big screen. Although there are still months to go before the movie enters production, it is a safe assurance to know that "Shazam!" is definitely going to be made.
For those who do not know about what is happening with "Shazam!" so far, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson has been attached to the project. However, in 2014 he confirmed that he will be playing the hero's antagonist Black Adam, who will star in a solo movie, which is being written by Darren Lemke announced earlier this year.
The antagonist is there, but what about the hero? No announcement has been made by director David F. Sandberg as to who will be donning the white cape and red outfit just yet. Sandberg had previously revealed that the character will be played by two actors: one to portray Shazam! himself, and the other as his kid alter-ego Billy Batson. No de-aging here.
Johnson, however, did name his pick for the titular hero: Armie Hammer, who is also a fan-favorite for a Green Lantern character as well. Hammer then cleared the speculation that no one has approached him for the role. John Cena and Joshua Sasse were also speculated to be in the running to play the adult superhero.
Apart from the speculations, one actor however, has auditioned for the titular character. Parker Young, who is known for playing Alex Davis in the fourth season of "Arrow."
Things seemed to be smooth sailing for the "Shazam!" movie until a big surprise came in the announcement that Johnson's Black Adam will not be in the movie. DC head Geoff Johns revealed that while he will still be Black Adam, he will not appear in "Shazam!"
A few weeks ago, Sandberg revealed that the movie has entered pre-production and has confirmed that they will start production in 2018. Apart from the release date, he also revealed that "Shazam!" will be a lot more light-hearted in terms of tone, especially because it is about a kid named Billy Batson who gets to become a very powerful superhero.
It is only a matter of time before casting announcements and little tidbits regarding the film are dropped, so fans will have to look out for updates.
"Shazam!" is scheduled to premiere on April 5, 2019.
