Aldis Hodge’s Hawkman Getting Solo Film?
Could it happen?
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Nearly any kid who picks up a comic book begins to dream of one day donning a cape and fighting crime. Some of us didn’t even wait to grow up as we chose towels and clothespins out of the closet to turn our back yards or alleys into the world of superheroes. A select few get to grow up, become actors, and live that dream to the fullest by bringing our favorite characters to life in the movies. Aldis Hodge gets the distinct honor of bringing Hawkman to the screen in the DC blockbuster Black Adam, starring Dwayne Johnson as the titular anti-hero. While fans are undoubtedly looking forward to seeing Shazam’s arch nemesis hit theaters, Hodge gave audiences hope that his character may have more in the tank.
While on stage at the DC Panel to discuss Black Adam, Aldis Hodge addressed the possibility of his character’s future in the DCEU. He pointed to Hawkman’s rich history in the comic books. Referencing his time with the Justice Society, the Justice League, and his relationship with Hawkgirl, he believes there is a lot of content to use in a standalone film, or maybe even a franchise of films. Of course, for this to be realized, two things have to happen.
First, Black Adam must be successful if Aldis Hodge wants WB to invest in him. Warner Brothers and their DC slate of movies have been nothing if not polarizing. Their Jekyll and Hyde style of response to their films makes any one of them a toss-up. Ever since the culmination of Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight Trilogy, the DCEU brought successes like Man of Steel, only to be followed by critical bombs like Batman V. Superman. Wonder Woman was beloved, while Suicide Squad and Justice League were maligned. Shazam! and The Suicide Squad were enjoyed, while Wonder Woman 1984 was divisive. We truly never know what we’re going to get, and success is a must for a spin-off to be a possibility.
The second thing that must happen is Aldis Hodge’s connection with the audience. It is no small feat considering this is a movie about Black Adam, and Hodge’s could be limited. However, it isn’t unheard of for a character to start on the sidelines and wind up in the spotlight. John Cena was able to secure a spin-off Peacemaker series following his role in The Suicide Squad. Hodge is doing his part. Acting alongside Dwayne Johnson in a physical role isn’t easy, and Hodge took it to heart. Last year, he posted an image on his Instagram of his physique, showing how ripped he got for the role, lending hope that he would stand toe to toe with the biggest (literally) actor in Hollywood. The physical isn’t the only part he is taking seriously. He is also focused on his opportunity to bring representation to the genre. Along with other Black actors like Anthony Mackie, Ray Fisher, and the late Chadwick Boseman, Hodge understands the responsibility. You can see the image of his impressive physique below.
As we get closer and closer to October and the release of Black Adam, the hype is growing. Seeing the new trailer at San Diego Comic-Con and listening to Aldis Hodge give some possibility of this film growing a new franchise created a glimmer of hope that the woes of the DCEU fandom may be at an end.
