Things We Saw Today: KJ Apa, Isabel May Cast as the Wonder Twins

In further proof that no comic book character is too obscure or ridiculous to merit a live-action adaptation, HBO Max is moving full steam ahead with its Wonder Twins movie. And the titular twins have already been cast. KJ Apa (Riverdale) will play Zan and Isabel May (1883) will play Jayna in the live-action comedy. The film, written and direct by Adam Sztykiel (Rampage, Black Adam) will follow the super-powered twins from the planet Exxor, who are being trained by DC’s superheroes. The twins can activate their superpowers touching hands and shouting “Wonder Twin powers, activate!” Those powers include Jayna’s ability to transform into any animal, while Zan can…turn into water in any state? Look not everyone can fly and shoot lasers out of their eyes, okay? The pair also have a pet monkey, Gleek, but it’s unclear if that character will join them in the film.

The characters first appeared in Hanna-Barbera’s The All-New Super Friends Hour in 1977, later appearing in series like The World’s Greatest Super Friends, Super Friends and Super Friends: The Legendary Super Powers Show. The characters were later folded into the DC Comics universe, popping up in Teen Titans Go! and the live-action TV series Smallville and The Flash. The Wonder Twins have long been a punchline for their lackluster powers, and it seems that the film is leaning into the inherent goofiness of the characters.

I hope the film goes full comedy with the premise, because nobody is out here looking for a gritty, violent take on the Wonder Twins. And after all, DC has yet to try its hand at an all-out comedy film, whereas Marvel delivered the exceedingly entertaining Ant-Man. Are you excited about the Wonder Twins movie? Will Zan turn into an ice cube? We’ll have to stay tuned to find out!

(via Deadline, image: the CW/CBS)

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Happy Saturday and Chag Sameach, Mary Suevians!

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