Part 6/8:
The Impact of Hype vs. Reality
Despite a marketing campaign featuring high-profile cameos—including Nick Cage's much-anticipated reveal—initial numbers are troubling. The film’s considerable budget and star power seemed to promise a blockbuster, but lukewarm reception among theatergoers might dampen its potential.
The Broader Implications for Warner Bros.
Should The Flash open closer to $70 million rather than the projected $130 million, it could spell trouble for Warner Bros. and DC's upcoming slate. Historically, movies like Black Adam and Shazam! Fury of the Gods showed that even with decent marketing, if the film doesn’t resonate initially, sustained box office performance suffers, hampering future projects.