In a statement, the studio confirms that the shocking decision to not release the superhero movie 'reflects our leadership's strategic shift,' which now focuses on bringing DC features at a blockbuster scale.
- Aug 3, 2022
AceShowbiz - "Batgirl", a solo film about the DC Comics superhero character, isn't going to see the light of day. The film starring Leslie Grace in the title role has been axed by Warner Bros. though filming has been completed.
The shocking decision to shelve the feature film is not driven by the quality of the film or the commitment of the filmmakers, but reportedly by the desire of the studio to bring DC features at a blockbuster scale.
Confirming the decision, a Warner Bros. spokesperson said in a statement on Tuesday, August 2, "The decision to not release 'Batgirl' reflects our leadership’s strategic shift as it relates to the DC universe and HBO Max." The statement continued to read, "Leslie Grace is an incredibly talented actor and this decision is not a reflection of her performance. We are incredibly grateful to the filmmakers of 'Batgirl' and 'Scoob! Holiday Haunt' and their respective casts and we hope to collaborate with everyone again in the near future."
The unusual move comes after a change in leadership at Warners. New Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav is now prioritizing cost-cutting measures and refocusing Warners on creating theatrical films rather than projects for streaming, as had been a priority for former WarnerMedia CEO Jason Kilar.
"Batgirl", which also stars Brendan Fraser as the villain Firefly, began production in November 2021 and filming wrapped up in March this year, with Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah serving as directors. It was intended for release on HBO Max. The initial $75 million production budget for the project rose to $90 million, due in part to COVID-related delays and protocols.
"Batgirl" isn't the only film cut amid the shift as "Scoob!: Holiday Haunt", a follow-up to the 2020 film "Scoob!", will not be released either. The animated feature reportedly had cost Warner Bros. $40 million for production.
