Yay, a reason to write about The Rock! I can never pass up such an opportunity. He’s giving his serious face in this photo because he’s signed on for a serious role, sort of. The “serious” remark stems from DC’s rumored resolution to allow no humor in their comic book movies. (“Why so serious?” asked the Joker.) DC may have changed its mind. According to Slashfilm, DC’s new Shazam movie will be different and separate from all the Justice League stuff. Shazam will be fun, starting with the casting news of its baddie.

Dwayne Johnson has signed on to play Black Adam, a complex anti-hero and sometimes supervillain. The rumors have been buzzing for months. DC terribly wanted The Rock. They wanted him so bad that they let him choose whether to play the hero or the villain. Johnson announced his final decision on his Twitter page:

"Kneel at his feet or get crushed by his boot." My honor to become.. #BlackAdam #TheAntiHero #DCComics pic.twitter.com/Qk55eNf3R7

— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) September 3, 2014

I’d ask whether The Rock was a good pick for this role, but that’s a silly question. Of course he’s a great pick. His presence guarantees a film’s success. Seriously. Look at his box-office record. Even Hercules made a little money despite a ginormous budget and more cheese than my favorite panini sandwich.

So … Shazam. The titular character is formerly known as Captain Marvel, but the name was changed for obvious reasons. I don’t know if this is a great move for The Rock. His career survives every movie, even the worst ones. I would have preferred to see him in a Marvel flick, uttering some droll one-liners while raising the People’s Eyebrow. If anyone can inject some life into DC, it’s The Rock. The lightning power, super strength, and magic capabilities are mere bonuses to everything the man has to offer.

Photos courtesy of Fame/Flynet & WENN

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