More than three years have passed since Dwayne Johnson made his superhero debut in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) with the film Black Adam. Although the movie was intended to set the franchise on a strong path, Johnson’s portrayal of the anti-hero was brief. Today, Johnson shares his thoughts on the film’s impact and what lies ahead for his character in the evolving DC Universe (DCU).
Johnson Discusses His Experience Playing Black Adam
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Johnson was asked how his past as a wrestling heel influenced his performance in Black Adam. He responded,
“Oh, absolutely. I feel like not only my time as a heel in the ring in wrestling, but it was almost like the anti-hero that eventually the Rock became.”
This connection to his wrestling persona helped shape his approach to the complex character of Teth-Adam.
Johnson further expressed his enthusiasm for the project:
“I loved making Black Adam. We had a great time. Loved creating those characters and introducing other characters, as well, in that universe.”
While he enjoyed bringing the story to life, Johnson also acknowledged the franchise’s transition, concluding with,
“Wish that universe well. And on to others,”
referring to the fresh direction under James Gunn’s leadership at DC Studios.
The Story and Production Behind Black Adam
Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, with a screenplay co-written by Adam Sztykiel, Rory Haines, and Sohrab Noshirvani, Black Adam follows Teth-Adam’s awakening as he assumes the role of Kahndaq’s champion. The Justice Society of America, featuring heroes like Hawkman, attempts to stop him, but soon they must join forces to confront the villain Sabbac. This plot set the stage for a new chapter in the DCEU’s expanding mythology.
Box Office and Reception
The film received mixed reviews from critics and wrapped up its box office run with $393.4 million worldwide. Though the overall earnings fell short of some expectations, Black Adam still outperformed later DCEU movies like Shazam! Fury of the Gods, which grossed $134.1 million, and The Flash with $271.4 million globally. This performance places Johnson’s film in a notable position within the franchise.
Significance of Henry Cavill’s Role and Future Plans
Black Adam also marked the final appearance of Henry Cavill as Superman, who made a cameo in the movie’s post-credits scene. The initial plan anticipated a future clash between Johnson’s Black Adam and Cavill’s Superman, teasing a major event that would have tied their storylines together. However, the evolving direction of the DC Universe under new leadership has led to changes in these plans.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Black Adam in the DC Multiverse
On December 20, 2022, when James Gunn and Peter Safran were announced as co-CEOs of DC Studios, Johnson released a statement about Black Adam’s ongoing potential, saying they
“have agreed to continue exploring the most valuable ways Black Adam can be utilized in future DC multiverse chapters.”
This openness signals that while Johnson’s time as Black Adam in the original DCEU run may be complete, the character’s story isn’t finished and could resurface in new, multiverse-related projects.
Currently, Black Adam is available on home media and streaming platforms, offering audiences the chance to revisit Teth-Adam’s origin and the world created around him.
Main Cast of Black Adam
Dwayne Johnson leads as Black Adam/Teth-Adam, bringing his wrestling background to the role, while Aldis Hodge portrays Hawkman/Carter Hall, a member of the Justice Society of America who opposes Black Adam initially but later joins forces against a greater threat.
