Warner Bros. has a complex situation on their hands with the potential sequel to The Flash, as it serves as a bridge between the old DC Extended Universe and the newly rebranded DC Universe while also featuring the return of Ezra Miller as Barry Allen. However, Miller's offscreen behavior and negative media attention have complicated the film's prospects. In an effort to manage the press ahead of the film's June 16 release date, Warner Bros. has opted to not include Miller in any press materials due to his reported need for treatment for "complex mental health issues." Instead, the campaign will focus on Michael Keaton's return to the role of Batman. According to a source close to Miller, the actor hopes to shift the story away from themself.
Ezra wants the movie to open and the conversation to be about the movie and not about Ezra. They are focused on their mental health and don’t want it to be transactional.
Why The Flash is So Important
Despite Miller's controversial behavior, Warner Bros. did not pull The Flash from its release schedule. While there may have been some pressure to cancel the film altogether, Miller has taken steps to address their mental health and has been out of the spotlight in recent months. It would have taken significant pressure for Warner Bros. to make the decision to cancel the film entirely.
The cancellation of HBO Max's Batgirl during the streaming service's restructuring sets a precedent for a DC outing being cancelled. However, The Flash holds greater significance than just financial investment. It will serve as the crucial component in launching the new direction for the DC universe.
With Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom set to release in December, The Flash will be the final outing for the previous superheroes featured in the DCU. The hero's ability to time travel and access alternate universes will provide opportunities for the emergence of the new branch of the franchise following the conclusion of the old. This allows for potential recast characters, such as James Gunn's upcoming Superman: Legacy, to be justifiably introduced while also leaving room for the return of certain heroes and storylines from previous films, if the studio chooses to do so.
Source: Variety