Deathstroke finally getting a solo film?: Here's why it's a big deal

Remember when we thought we were going to get a Deathstroke film set in the DC Extended Universe? Good times.

Well, even though that didn't happen, Slade Wilson could be coming to James Gunn and Peter Safran's DC Universe, according to The Hollywood Reporter, as the character is set to co-headline his own DC movie, along with none other than fellow Batman villain Bane. And fans of the anti-hero couldn’t be happier.

We've waited years to see Slade Wilson, a.k.a. Deathstroke, properly represented in a solo film. Back when the live-action universe was still the DCEU, fans thought they’d finally get a taste when Joe Manganiello suited up as Deathstroke in the post-credit scene of Justice League. You know, the one where the movie was "average at best," and we all left feeling like we deserved more. Manganiello looked like he was plucked right from the pages of DC comics, but after that brief tease? Nothing. The DCEU fizzled in chaotic fashion, and any hope of seeing Slade Wilson on the silver screen again vanished — until now.

Now with the DCU being rebooted under Gunn and Safran, the timing feels perfect. Deathstroke is the type of anti-hero that fans have always loved; whether it's through his epic storylines in the comics or his appearances in animated series like Teen Titans and Young Justice. Most recently, Esai Morales blew us away with his portrayal of Slade Wilson in Titans, while Manu Bennett delivered a character-defining performance as the sword-wielder in The CW's Arrow, cementing Deathstroke as one of DC’s most iconic characters, full of grit, tactical genius, and a complex moral code.

Fan Casting: Could Joe Manganiello Return?

One of the most exciting aspects of this new Deathstroke project is the potential for casting. Could Joe Manganiello return to finally give us the full version of Deathstroke that we’ve been craving? He’s still a top contender, and let’s be real, the guy looked like Deathstroke— eye-patch, armor, everything. But what if the DCU shakes things up? Maybe someone like Jensen Ackles could step into the role.

Sure, fans have been dreaming of seeing Ackles as Batman, but let’s not overlook how perfect he’d be as Slade Wilson. Ackles has that rugged, tough-as-nails charm that could bring Deathstroke to life in a new way. He’s got the grit, he’s got the looks, and let’s not forget that he's done voice work as Jason Todd and Batman — so he’s already dipped his toes into DC waters. For this article’s sake, he’s our top pick.

What Could a Deathstroke Movie Be About?

If you're wondering what a Deathstroke movie could look like, look no further than Deathstroke Vol. 1: The Professional from DC's Rebirth series as a primary source of inspiration. The Wilson family is as dysfunctional as they come, and their twisted dynamics would be the perfect backdrop for a feature film.

Slade Wilson, a.k.a. Deathstroke, isn't just your run-of-the-mill mercenary. He's a complex anti-hero with deep-rooted family drama that has shaped his character. From his violent history in the military to his cold and calculated moves as a contract killer, Slade’s story offers a mix of action and emotional turmoil. This wouldn't just be a "shoot ‘em up" film — there would be heart (albeit a twisted one) at its core. We’d get to see his relationships with his ex-wife Adeline and his equally lethal children, Joey (Jericho), Grant (Ravager), and Rose (another Ravager).

The film could explore Slade’s attempts to balance being a father while also taking on high-stakes missions, creating a Mr. & Mrs. Smith vibe, except with even more betrayal, mercenary warfare, and some seriously messed up family values. Imagine Slade being forced into a job that inadvertently pulls his children into harm's way, bringing his dysfunctional family back together in the worst possible way. The Wilson clan’s twisted dynamic is something fresh fans can get behind. 

With the backstory of Slade's military background, his experimental enhancements, and his fall from grace, there would be plenty of depth in a film focused on Deathstroke. On top of that villains like H.I.V.E. and personal betrayals around every corner, the possibilities are endless. We'd love to see this movie dive deep into the betrayal and tension between Slade and his son, Grant.  And the complicated relationship with other son Joey a.k.a. Jericho, who has the ability to take over other people's bodies — a recipe for awesomeness.

If handled correctly, this movie could be the perfect mix of action, drama, and mercenary madness, proving that Slade Wilson deserves the spotlight as one of DC’s most complex characters. Whether it’s about surviving the dangers of being a contract killer or facing off against his own kids, a Deathstroke movie would have everything you need for an action packed family drama. The question is: Could they pull this off and focus on Bane at the same time? Here's hoping so!