Brendan Fraser Blasts Hollywood's 'Burn It Down' Culture Over Axed Batgirl Film
Brendan Fraser speaks out on Batgirl. He condemns the studio's shocking decision. A completed film was completely erased. Learn why he calls it a tragedy.
Years after the industry-shaking decision to shelve a fully completed film, Brendan Fraser is reflecting on the 'Batgirl' movie that never was. The actor, who was cast as the pyromaniacal antagonist Firefly, recalled the immense scale of the production in Glasgow, noting his awe at the elaborate sets spanning multiple floors. His firsthand look at the dedicated work made the eventual outcome all the more bewildering.
Fraser conveyed a deep sense of loss, not just for the project, but for its potential audience. He pointed out the tragic consequence of denying young girls a new on-screen champion they could see themselves in. The actor also took aim at the modern Hollywood mindset, suggesting that creative works are increasingly treated as disposable assets. He described a disturbing trend where a project's value is calculated in tax benefits for its destruction rather than its potential to connect with viewers in the marketplace.
The DC film was in the final stages of post-production when it was abruptly canceled in the summer of 2022. It was poised for a streaming debut on HBO Max, featuring Leslie Grace in the titular role. The movie also promised the exciting return of Michael Keaton as Batman, with J.K. Simmons reprising his role as Commissioner Gordon, making its cancellation a major blow to fans.
At the time, Warner Bros. issued a statement attributing the move to a major change in strategy for its DC properties and streaming service. The studio was careful to praise Leslie Grace's performance, clarifying that her work was not a factor in the decision. However, industry insiders widely reported that the cancellation was a calculated financial maneuver. The newly merged Warner Bros. Discovery could allegedly claim a significant tax write-down on the film's budget by choosing not to monetize it in any way.
Since the 'Batgirl' debacle, Fraser has continued to work on diverse projects. He starred in the comedy-drama 'Rental Family,' a film about a man in Tokyo who works for an agency that provides actors to stand in as family members for clients. The movie saw its theatrical release last year.
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