Ezra Miller's Performance as The Flash in Zack Snyder's DC Universe

Ezra Miller's Performance as The Flash in Zack Snyder's DC Universe

A look at Zack Snyder's comments on Ezra Miller's performance as The Flash in the DCEU and the possibility of Miller returning in James Gunn's DC Universe slate of movies.

Zack Snyder's Comments on Ezra Miller's Performance

Zack Snyder, the filmmaker who originally cast Ezra Miller as Barry Allen in the DCEU, has commented on the latter's performance in 2023's The Flash. Miller was initially announced as the DCEU's Scarlet Speedster in 2014, two years before their debut in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. Since then, Miller went on to play The Flash in Suicide Squad, Justice League, Zack Snyder's Justice League, and 2023's DC Easter egg-infused The Flash.

The Flash movie Barry Allen James Gunn

The Flash movie Barry Allen James Gunn

Despite Snyder’s Rebel Moon Netflix movie meaning he is not involved in The Flash or the DC world anymore, the filmmaker has commented on Miller's performance in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter. The report indicates that Snyder keeps in regular contact with his Justice League actors, including Miller. Snyder goes on to say: “[They] did a great job in that Flash movie. It’s very difficult to play against yourself.” These comments likely come from the heart of Snyder given that the filmmaker was the one responsible for casting Miller initially, proving that he values their talents as the DC hero, especially in the somewhat difficult dual role Miller played.

This acknowledgment from Snyder highlights the depth of Miller's portrayal of The Flash and the challenges he faced in playing such a complex character. It also sheds light on the strong bond between Snyder and the actors he worked with, emphasizing the mutual respect and admiration between them.

Will Ezra Miller Return As The Flash in James Gunn's DC Universe?

The Flash's 2023 release has led many to wonder whether Miller will return to play the Flash in James Gunn's DC Universe slate of movies. Given the reports in late 2023 that the entire Justice League of the DCEU is set to be recast for Gunn's rebooted franchise, it is highly unlikely that Miller will return as The Flash in the DCU. Similarly, The Flash proved to be a major box office disappointment with one of the factors likely being the controversial personal life of Miller.

As evident by Gunn's cast for 2025's Superman: Legacy, it seems the Marvel-turned-DC filmmaker is opting for a complete overhaul of DC's prior live-action actors. This is set to extend to the Flash too, despite the Scarlet Speedster not being confirmed for any future movies in the DCU as of yet. Regardless, when the inevitable announcement of a DCU Flash movie arrives, it is all but guaranteed to come with another actor for Barry Allen after Ezra Miller's curtain call with 2023's The Flash.

Conclusion

The future of Ezra Miller's portrayal of The Flash in the DC Universe appears uncertain, with indications pointing toward a recasting of the character in James Gunn's rebooted franchise. However, the impact of Miller's performance in 2023's The Flash cannot be understated, and Zack Snyder's comments serve as a testament to the actor's dedication and talent. As the DC Universe continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the iconic character of The Flash is reimagined and portrayed in the upcoming movies.