Newly uncovered footage of Christopher Reeve has recently surfaced, raising doubts about the underlying message of The Flash. This latest installment in the DC Universe follows in the footsteps of Man of Steel, Justice League, and other major projects featuring iconic DC characters. Packed with nostalgic elements such as cameos and references, The Flash even includes a posthumous appearance by the beloved Christopher Reeve.
However, Reeve's remarks, which have resurfaced after all these years, seem to contradict the very essence of The Flash. To gain more insight, take a look at the tweets shared by UsUnitedJustice and John Frankensteiner, along with Reeve's quote below.
Reeve's remarks highlight the issue of "sequelitis" in the entertainment industry, where major studios capitalize on the success of previous films by rehashing familiar elements in an attempt to generate more revenue. However, the quality of these sequels often diminishes, rarely surpassing their predecessors. Reeve reveals that this practice extends beyond just recycling storylines and characters; it also involves making false promises to entice top talent to join the project. Despite the hype surrounding these films, they often lack the necessary resources and support to deliver a truly exceptional experience. Reeve suggests that audiences, faced with lackluster sequels, may opt to stay home and watch television instead. He goes on to criticize the motives of the industry, claiming that many decision-makers are more interested in monetary gain than in creating quality films. Reeve's comments shed light on the business-driven nature of the industry and the diminishing love for cinema among those in power.
How The Flash Was Able To Include A Christopher Reeve Superman Cameo
The use of Christopher Reeve's likeness in The Flash, 19 years after his passing, has sparked controversy similar to the appearance of Grand Moff Tarkin (Peter Cushing) in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. By utilizing CGI and archival footage from the Superman films, DC Studios has created a seamless portrayal that makes it feel as though Reeve himself filmed the part. While there is no official confirmation of whether DC Studios obtained permission from Reeve's estate, California law protects the rights of the deceased for 70 years after their death. It is likely that the executor of Reeve's estate approved his appearance, but an official statement from the estate or DC Studios is needed to confirm.
Reeve's cameo in The Flash has sparked additional criticism, considering his previous regret over Superman III and Superman IV: The Quest For Peace. He disapproved of sequels that prioritized honoring renowned actors at the expense of staying true to the main message of earlier films. The concept of a multiverse of cameos, which The Flash incorporates, seems to be precisely what Reeve criticized. Consequently, his appearance in The Flash contradicts his earlier remarks, ultimately validating Reeve's point.