Him Movie about the Deathstroke/Bane team that DC Studios are cooking continues to generate rumors and expectations with the possible return of Joe Manganiello as Slade Wilson in the new DCU
A missed opportunity in the DCEU
Joe Manganiello almost had a major role in the original DCEU. Initial plans included Lex Luthor revealing Batman’s secret identity to Deathstroke in a post-credits scene. Justice Leagueopening the door to an epic clash The Batman. This version of the film, which was to be directed by Ben Affleck, promised to be a relentless chase between the Dark Knight and the ruthless mercenary. However, when Affleck decided to step away from directing and starring in the project, Manganiello’s role was overshadowed, leaving the character relegated to an appearance in Joss Whedon’s version of “Injustice Society.”
Despite this, there were rumors of a Deathstroke spin-off, directed by Gareth Evans (The raid), but the project never materialized. Now, with James Gunn and Peter Safran at the helm of DC Studios, it appears that Slade Wilson is once again in the crosshairs, this time alongside another iconic villain: Bane.
The new Deathstroke of the DCU
In September, reports surfaced that Matthew Orton, screenwriter of Captain America: Brave New Worldis writing the screenplay of this joint film. Although some speculate that it could be a project linked to the group You are secretGunn reiterated his interest in the character of Deathstroke in the new DCU. However, according to well-known tipster @MyTimeToShineH, Manganiello will not return to the role of Slade Wilson. DC Studios is instead looking for a new actor to reinterpret the famous mercenary.
This news, while disappointing for Manganiello fans, is not surprising. Its association with the DCEU, including additional scenes of Justice League and his participation in Zack Snyder’s “Knightmare” connect him too much to the previous phase of the cinematic universe. Additionally, the actor himself confirmed in February that his days as Deathstroke were behind him.
What happened to Manganiello’s screenplay?
The actor shared that following the dismantling of the DCEU, his proposal for a Deathstroke origin film remained in limbo. Jim Lee, creative director of DC Comics, even suggested turning the script into a series of graphic novels. However, the lack of guarantees about his involvement in the project led Manganiello to abandon the idea. According to him, James Gunn encouraged him to “let it go” and move on.
The question now is: Who could replace Manganiello as Slade Wilson in the new DCU? With a film that promises to bring together forces (and chaos) between Deathstroke and Bane, casting will be key to bringing this lethal mercenary to life. Fans have already started speculating on possible names, from established actors to new faces who could bring freshness to the character.
Deathstroke and Bane: an explosive alliance
The duo of Deathstroke and Bane could be an explosive combination on screen, uniting two of the most intelligent and physically imposing villains in the DC Universe. While Deathstroke is known for his military strategy and assassin skills, Bane brings with him his brute strength and tactical mind, which made him famous in the story arc. Knightfallwhere he managed to defeat Batman himself.
With James Gunn at the helm of the DCU, fans can expect a bold and exciting reinterpretation of these characters, departing from previous versions to build something new and exciting.