This may just be a brilliant marketing strategy, but for now it appears that the reboot of The Crow is dead and buried. Lead actor Jason Momoa broke the news on Instagram that he and director Corin Hardy were exiting the project, which was scheduled to be released in October of 2019.

“I’ve waited 8 years to play this dream role,” Momoa posted. “I love you @corinhardy and @sonypictures unfortunately I may have to wait 8 more. Not our team. But I swear I will. James O’Barr sorry to let you down I won’t on the next. This film needs to be set free. And to the fans. Sorry. I can’t play anything but what this film deserves and it needs love. I’m ready when it’s right.”

The Crow first landed in theaters in 1994. The movie is based on a 1989 comic book about an undead rock and roll vigilante who is brought back to life (rebooted, if you will) by a supernatural crow in order to avenge his own murder, as well as that of his fiancée. The movie has remained an unfortunate curiosity since its release, as the film’s star, Brandon Lee (son of Bruce Lee), died after being shot with a gun that malfunctioned and fired a live dummy round during filming. Despite the death of Lee, the franchise went on to have three sequels and a TV show.

Alex Proyas, the director of the first film, has been outspoken about his wish that The Crow stay in the ground.

“THE CROW would not be a movie worth “remaking” if it wasn’t for Brandon Lee. If it wasn’t for Brandon you may never have even heard of this poignant little underground comic. It is Brandon’s movie. I believe it is a special case where Hollywood should just let it remain a testament to a man’s immense talent and ultimate sacrifice – and not have others re-write that story or add to it. I know sequels were made, and TV shows, and what have you, but the notion of “rebooting” this story, and the original character – a character Brandon gave life to at too high a cost – seems wrong to me. Please let this remain Brandon’s film.”

According to The Hollywood Reporter, financial issues between producer Samuel Hadida and Sony are behind this latest setback for The Crow franchise, though Momoa’s words make it sound like creative differences were also afoot. Momoa will next be seen in DC’s Aquaman, which releases on December 21st.