While Man of Steel ended up being one of the most divisive blockbusters of 2013, it's hard to deny its success. Made for an expensive $225 million, the film wound up being a great investment for the folks at Warner Bros., as the Superman film wound up making nearly $670 million worldwide. The high grosses were enough to secure director Zack Snyder the job of helming the sequel, the still untitled Batman vs. Superman, and now comes news that he has secured the job of directing the Justice League movie as well.
The news comes from The Wall Street Journal, which picked up the hot scoop from none other than Warner Bros. President of Worldwide Production Greg Silverman. In addition to confirming that Snyder will direct Justice League, the report also adds that a script is being written and that Ben Affleck, Henry Cavill and Gal Gadot are expected to reprise their roles as Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman, respectively. There is no release date currently set, but at this time we shouldn't expect the finished product to be out before 2018 (two years after Batman vs. Superman). Said Silverman of the project,
"It will be a further expansion of this universe. Superman vs Batman will lead into Justice League."
The report also notes that the search is already on for other heroes for the expanded comic book cinematic universe, referencing the casting of theater actor Ray Fisher as Cyborg this past week. The source doesn't have any insight about any other superhero characters we might see eventually join the team, but key Justice League players from the comics include Flash, Green Lantern, Martian Manhunter and Aqua Man - none of whom have been cast yet.
In addition to all of the Justice League talk, the article also has a small tidbit about the development of a Wonder Woman solo film. Speculation about the potential project began in January when it was revealed that Gal Gadot had signed a three picture deal to play Princess Diana of Themyscira. Judging from WSJ's report, that film - if it happens - won't be until after Justice League. Asked about the potential for a Wonder Woman solo movie, Warner Bros. President of Worldwide Marketing Sue Kroll responded, "That is our hope. With the right script, that could be viable. The world is ready for her."
The big news here, of course, is Snyder's hiring. While fans will likely be very divided on this news, it's hard to argue that it's not a potentially good sign for Batman vs. Superman, given that the studio obviously has confidence in the filmmaker's abilities. But now I want to hear what you have to say. Are you excited about Zack Snyder directing the Justice League movie? Answer our poll below!
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