James Gunn denies Maxima casting rumors as Man of Tomorrow seeks new lead

At a glance:

• James Gunn denies Deadline’s casting rumors for Maxima in “Man of Tomorrow.”
• New adaptations announced: “Home Safety Hotline,” “The Scorpion,” and “Deluxe Ocean View.”
• Upcoming horror trailers and series teasers include Exit 8, Strawstalker, The Draw, and Rooster Fighter.

Casting controversy

James Gunn took to Threads to refute a Deadline report that suggested Adria Arjona, Ella Purnell, and Marisa Abela were screen‑testing for the role of Maxima. He emphasized that the names were never run by him and called the coverage “shoddy & incorrect.” The director also highlighted his long‑standing friendship with Arjona, dating back to the film “Belko Experiment,” which adds a personal dimension to the dispute.

The casting controversy could affect fan expectations for “Man of Tomorrow,” a project that blends superhero elements with a fresh narrative. If the rumors are dismissed, the production may need to reopen auditions, potentially bringing in new talent. Industry observers note that such public denials can influence studio decisions and future reporting practices.

Horror adaptations

The upcoming film adaptation of the analog‑horror game “Home Safety Hotline” has been green‑lit, with Michael Matthews attached to direct and Nick Tassoni writing the screenplay. The story follows an unemployed loner who becomes a phone operator for a mysterious security company that battles night‑time monsters. Early details suggest a blend of psychological tension and creature‑feature scares.

Separately, “The Scorpion” is set to star Sonja O’Hara and Sebiye Behtiyar in a horror‑sci‑fi narrative about a young woman who takes a job at a cutting‑edge cosmetics lab. Director Zachary Allard promises invasive procedures, chemical experiments, and a gradual transformation that blurs the line between beauty and horror. The film’s premise explores themes of desperation, ambition, and the cost of progress.

Upcoming horror trailers

A final trailer for “Exit 8” has been released, showcasing the neon‑lit aesthetic of the game’s final level ahead of its Friday launch. The short clip teases a surreal journey through an empty corridor where players must navigate subtle environmental puzzles. Fans are speculating that the game’s ending will tie into broader horror‑gaming trends.

In addition, Adult Swim’s “Rooster Fighter” clip offers a glimpse of a politically charged game show where contestants are hunted for entertainment. The series appears to combine absurdist humor with graphic violence, echoing the network’s signature style. Meanwhile, the teaser for “Strawstalker” hints at a living scarecrow terrorizing an affluent Los Angeles neighborhood, promising both visual dread and social commentary.