WB sets Matrix 4 for 2021, Flash for 2022, and removes Akira from the slate

And just like that, Warner Bros. has announced that Lana Wachowski's untitled Matrix sequel will arrive in theaters on May 21, 2021. Meanwhile, the long-awaited THE FLASH movie will race into cinemas on July 1, 2022. In perhaps some more discouraging news, the studio has removed their live-action adaptation of AKIRA from their list of upcoming theatrical releases.

Let's explore each one of these releases one-by-one, shall we?

With an opening date of May 21, 2021, Warner Bros. has officially stacked The Matrix sequel against Lionsgate's JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 4, which as you know both star the man, the myth, Keanu Reeves. The Matrix visionary Lana Wachowski is directing the untitled sequel, which has Matrix alums Keanu Reeves (Neo), Carrie-Anne Moss (Trinity), and Jada Pinkett Smith (Niobe) returning, with newcomers Jessica Henwick, Neil Patrick Harris, Toby Onwumere and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II poised to log-on to the latest chapter of the franchise. In addition to serving as director of the sequel, Wachowski will also produce alongside Grant Hill. Aleksandar Hemon and David Mitchell will pen the script.

As for THE FLASH, Warner Bros. has set Andy Muschietti as the lastest filmmaker to direct the long-gestating superhero solo film. Ezra Miller will once again star as the Justice League speedster, Barry Allen, after playing the character for both BATMAN V SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE and JUSTICE LEAGUE. Plans are to shoot the film in 2020, giving the studio plenty of time to bring THE FLASH up to speed.

Next, might I suggest that we "pour one out" for AKIRA? Truth be told, I never thought this film was going to happen, and now that WB has undated the adaptation that had Taika Waititi attached to direct, it might be time to lay this one to rest, no? As the story goes, AKIRA was placed on hold in July when Marvel announced that Waititi had signed on to direct a fourth Thor film, titled THOR: LOVE AND THUNDER. The forthcoming superhero spectacle will see Natalie Portman's Jane Foster returning to the MCU, where she will come to be known by all as Mighty Thor, the Goddess of Thunder.

Last but certainly not least, Warner Bros. has moved their MORTAL KOMBAT reboot up six weeks to January 15, 2021, and has dated an untitled project about political activist Fred Hampton for Aug. 21, 2020.