Black Adam Promises To Knock Superman Off His Perch And The JSA

While Johnson’s Black Adam is still too early in pre-production to reveal anything too major the panel did give fans a taste of the story, the character, and a few other surprises.

The Origins of Black Adam

The panel opened with Black Adam’s origin story, told with artwork by Boss Logic and narrated by Dwayne Johnson. How he was a man in the ancient nation of Kahndaq who’s people were enslaved. He gained the powers of Shazam to liberate his people but he was subsequently imprisoned for ‘doing what needed to be done’. Then, presumably at the time the film is set, Black Adam is freed and ready to exact justice upon the earth. At this point Dwayne Johnson appeared in person to host the panel. He said he couldn’t share too much yet since the film is in the pre-production, but promised stuff was coming soon. Johnson then transitioned to answering questions from fans.

Black Adam the Character

Since Johnson and the DC people wanted to avoid spoiling the film they stuck to fan questions about the character of Black Adam. Johnson talked quite openly and honestly about how he’s been working on getting this project made for over ten years. Explaining that he was drawn to playing an anti-hero and a man who’s concept of justice was shaped by being a slave. Additionally being an anti-hero Black Adam has the power levels of many other heroes but none of their moral restraints. Johnson described Black Adam as a man with an extreme for of justice. A man who sees himself as judge, jury, and executioner.

The Other Characters

At this point actor Noah Centino joined the virtual panel. Johnson took this moment to confirm that Noah Centiono has been cast as Atom Smasher in the movie. And that the film would feature the Justice Society of America. Noah Centino talked about what motivates his character and the journey he goes on as a rookie superhero. Johnson talked a bit about seeing concept art of giant sized Atom Smasher and how excited he was for it. Once Centino left Johnson revealed that the film will feature Dr. Fate, Hawkman, Cyclone and Atom Smasher. Discussing how these characters would be in opposition to Black Adam, shown in more concept art by Jim Lee. Johnson concluded the panel with a message for the fans to carry to the heroes of the DC films.

“The world will never be the same, the balance of power in the DC Universe is about to change”

Are you excited for Black Adam? Let us know in the comments.