Director Andy Muschietti attributes the box office failure of his DC Extended Universe film, "The Flash," to a lack of broad appeal. Speaking to Radio Tu (as translated by Variety), Muschietti stated the film didn't resonate with "the four quadrants" – a term referring to the key demographic groups (males under 25, males over 25, females under 25, and females over 25) – necessary to justify its $200 million budget. He noted that Warner Bros. aims for widespread appeal, targeting even a broad audience.
"The Flash underperformed, among other factors, because it didn't connect with all four quadrants," Muschietti explained. "With a $200 million budget, the studio wants to fill theaters with everyone, including your grandmother."
He further elaborated in private conversations, revealing a significant portion of the audience, particularly women, lacked interest in the Flash character. This, he suggests, created significant headwinds for the film.
Unfulfilled DCEU Teasers
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Muschietti's acknowledgement of "other reasons" for the film's failure likely encompasses the negative critical reception, controversy surrounding its CGI, particularly the recreation of deceased actors, and its release within a now-defunct cinematic universe.
Despite "The Flash's" underperformance, Muschietti remains a key figure in DC's plans. He's reportedly slated to direct "The Brave and the Bold," the inaugural Batman film in James Gunn and Peter Safran's revamped DC Universe.
