'Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice' rumors: Success of 'Deadpool' a threat?
The record-breaking success of R-rated "Deadpool" on its opening weekend, from Feb. 12 to 14, might have posed a challenge to the upcoming traditional superhero movie, "Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice."
While Warner Bros. is reportedly confident of the quality of "BvS," film critic and insider Drew McWeeny of HitFlix reports that the company is worried of how viewers will react toward the movie, especially since it is considered a springboard for the company to win people back to watching DC Comics-adapted movies that are in the works.
After the warm acceptance of audiences toward 20th Century Fox's quirky and R-rated treatment of "Deadpool," film critics could not help but point out a possible jeopardy in Warner Bros.' end in terms of building future movies that are "Justice League"-themed. Compared to the grievous and serious tone of "Dawn of Justice," Fox's new fun approach and comical portrayal of The Merc with a Mouth is evidently winning cultural attraction.
Warner Bros. is doing double time in their promotions. Just over Valentine's week, DC revealed new collectibles focusing on "Dawn of Justice" characters and depictions. New "Dawn of Justice" LEGO sets were launched during Toy Fair 2016, and the upcoming movie bought two new TV spots last Saturday.
"Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice" is directed by Zack Snyder who is famous for "Man of Steel" and "300." There are several speculations whether Snyder will be depicting the Waynes from the comics or from previous film portrayals. Predictions are unclear as to how much of Batman's origin will be depicted in Snyder's upcoming film, especially after the success of "The Dark Knight" trilogy by director Christopher Nolan.
The much awaited superhero feature is considered the sequel to "Man of Steel," which stars Henry Cavill as Superman, who is also set to reprise his role in this follow-up film. Wonder Woman, portrayed by Gal Gadot of the "Fast & Furious" franchise, will be introduced in this superhero movie, as well as Aquaman played by Jason Momoa of "Conan the Barbarian" and "Game of Thrones."
Meanwhile, Lauren Cohan is confirmed to play Martha Wayne, mother of Bruce Wayne, played by "Gone Girl" actor Ben Affleck. Based on DC Comics canon, Bruce's parents were shot dead by Joe Chill during a holdup. This left the young Wayne orphaned and raised by Alfred Pennyworth, their family butler. He grows up and creates his vigilante alter ego Batman in the hopes of avenging the death of his parents while also purging Gotham City of corruption.
"Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice" will premiere on March 20 in Los Angeles, while most cinemas worldwide will be showing the film on March 25.