Overview
#BlackAdam became one of 2022’s most discussed superhero films when Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson finally brought the DC antihero to screen after 15 years of development. Despite Johnson’s promotional blitz and promises to “change the hierarchy of power in the DC universe,” the film received mixed reviews and underperformed financially, contributing to DC’s continued struggles pre-James Gunn reboot.
The Rock’s Passion Project
Johnson had pursued Black Adam since 2007, originally attached to play the character in a Shazam! film. The project evolved into a solo vehicle as Johnson positioned Black Adam as DC’s answer to Marvel’s antihero success.
His aggressive promotion included:
- “The hierarchy of power in the DC universe is about to change” catchphrase
- Claims of Superman showdown potential
- Positioning himself as DC’s savior
- Mid-credits Superman cameo (Henry Cavill’s brief return)
Mixed Reception
What worked:
- Dwayne Johnson’s star power and commitment
- Action sequences and VFX spectacle
- Pierce Brosnan as Doctor Fate (scene-stealer)
What didn’t:
- Generic origin story structure
- Tonal inconsistency (gritty violence vs. MCU-style quips)
- Underdeveloped Justice Society characters
- Confusing place in DCEU continuity
Box Office Disappointment
- Worldwide gross: $393 million
- Budget: $195-260 million (plus massive marketing)
- Verdict: Likely lost money or barely broke even
- Context: DC needed $600M+ to justify Johnson’s long-term plans
The Hierarchy That Wasn’t
Johnson’s promise to change DC’s power structure collapsed when:
- James Gunn and Peter Safran took over DC Studios (Oct 2022)
- They cancelled Black Adam sequels and Cavill’s Superman return
- The entire DCEU was rebooted, erasing Johnson’s plans
This became a meme: “The hierarchy changed, just not how The Rock expected.”