In the movie "Black Adam," the character Black Adam, played by Dwayne Johnson, is portrayed as an anti-hero rather than a traditional villain or hero. He possesses immense power and follows his own moral code, which often puts him at odds with conventional heroes, like the Justice Society. While he seeks to protect his homeland of Kahndaq, his methods can be ruthless and violent, leading to a complex portrayal that challenges the clear-cut definitions of good and evil in superhero narratives.

Yes, Black Adam is related to Shazam in the DC Comics universe. Originally, Black Adam was introduced as a villain for Shazam (also known as Captain Marvel). Both characters derive their powers from the same source, the ancient wizard Shazam, who grants them abilities through the magic of his name. Black Adam, originally Teth-Adam, was a former champion who turned against his creators and became an antihero. The 2022 movie "Black Adam" explores his origin and character, distinct from Shazam but intrinsically linked to him.

"Black Adam 2" was cancelled primarily due to a shift in leadership at DC Studios, with co-CEOs James Gunn and Peter Safran deciding to revamp the DC Extended Universe (DCEU). The film's underwhelming box office performance and mixed critical reception also contributed to the decision. Additionally, plans for a broader restructuring and focus on new projects led to the cancellation of sequels and spin-offs, including "Black Adam 2," as the studio aims to create a more cohesive narrative in the DCEU.

"Black Adam," released in October 2022 and starring Dwayne Johnson, had mixed reviews but performed moderately well at the box office. It grossed over $390 million worldwide against a production budget of approximately $200 million, making it a financial success, although not a blockbuster by superhero film standards. The movie sparked discussions about the future of the DC Extended Universe, with some viewing it as a hit while others considered it underwhelming compared to expectations for a major superhero release.