DC FanDome: Black Adam First Look

Dwayne Johnson gave fans their first look at Black Adam at DC FanDome with some exclusive concept art.

Dwayne Johnson appeared at DC FanDome, with a special appearance by Noah Centineo, to present fans with a first look at Black Adam. He brought a special sizzle reel by artists Jim Lee and Boss Logic to showcase what the film could look like, showcasing the city of Khandaq and who Black Adam will be facing against.

Dwayne Johnson has been attached to play Black Adam for years, having originally circulated in the roll as far back as 2008 and officially being cast in 2014.

The character was first teased in 2019’s Shazam as the Wizard’s first champion. In the comics he was originally a supervillain but in recent years has been defined as more of an anti-hero or a villain with a code of honor. His origin is that of a slave in ancient Egypt who is given power and becomes the ruler of a mystical nation called Khandaq. But he begins to abuse his power to implement his rule which finds him imprisoned. The film will explore his origin and his awakening 5000 years later.

Black Adam will not be facing Shazam in his first solo outing, that is something most likely being saved for a sequel. He will come into conflict with the Justice Society of America, here consisting of Hawkman and Doctor Fate with new recruits Cyclone and Atom Smasher (played by Noah Centineo). Black Adam and Hawkman have a special history together, as Hawkman is the reincarnated soul of the Pharoah that Black Adam was a slave to.

Doctor Fate is essentially DC’s Doctor Strange and his origin story, the mystical helmet of Nabu, has its roots in Egypt so there is a chance the two characters will have history. Atom Smasher has the ability to increase his size, so a giant character will make for some interesting action scenes for Black Adam. Cyclone has the ability to fly and manipulate wind and sound waves.

The major conflict seems to be how Black Adam and the Justice Society view implementing justice. Black Adam believes in fighting for “truth, justice, and the Black Adam way.” Dwayne Johnson teased that with the arrival of Black Adam, the balance of power in the DC Universe is about to change drastically. This could be a major turning point for the films going forward and he will pose a threat to Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, the Flash, and most importantly: Shazam.

Black Adam will be directed by Jaume Collet-Serra (The Jungle Cruise) and will be released on December 22, 2021.