The End Of An Era, & The Beginning Of Anew: Why The Batman May Change The Way We View Comic Book Films Forever.
The end of an era is finally upon us. Closing out a decade full of some of the most unforgettable moments ever witnessed in cinema history. So many great films over the years, it’s hard to keep track of them all. Now heading into a new age, it begs the question… With the superhero craze on a rise and no indication of slowing down anytime soon by any means, what else can be done within the genre that hasn’t been done already, & still manage to capture the magic that so many great beloved franchises have been able to do so well in the past? Is it truly possible to recapture that same level of success? Well, with the coming of what may be WB’s biggest DC installment yet The Batman, I’d say it’s very possible! Casting for the film is already underway with production scheduled to begin in U.K. London sometime around early 2020. Just this May, it was reported that young star Robert Pattinson will be the latest inline to don the role of Gotham city’s famous caped crusader/crime-fighter Bruce Wayne, & will be headlining the way for a brand-new standalone trilogy set to be directed & written by Planet Of The Apes Matt Reeves with a release date of June 25th 2021.
Source: The Guardian
Finally putting his younger days as popular vampire Edward Cullen behind him, & slowly moving into the indie world of cinema appearing in some of the most obscure films imaginable: The Lost City Of Z, Cosmopolis, Bel Ami, The Rover, Queen Of The Dessert, Good Time, & High life. In these last recent years, we’ve seen Pattinson drastically changed his career for the better. Becoming one of the most sought out names in Hollywood today.
Now in 2019, he’ll be making his return back into the spotlight once again. Starring in the upcoming horror film The Lighthouse, directed by Robert Eggers & Netflix’s historical drama The King, based on the play “Henriad” from William Shakespeare & directed by David Michod and co-written by Joel Edgerton, where he’ll be sharing the screen with two Oscar nominees in both Timothy Chalamet & William Dafoe. Then in 2020, he’ll be making what is set to be his biggest debut yet as one the primary leads alongside Blackkksman’s David Washington in Christopher Nolan’s long awaited upcoming action-thriller Tenet.
Source: Yahoo
Back in October, Pattinson was kind enough to go a bit more in-depth as to what he finds most fascinating about bringing such an iconic character in the Batman to life, & ultimately why he finds the fan-favorite vigilante so much more relatable compared to previous superheroes we’ve seen before explaining:
“Batman’s not a hero though. He’s a complicated character. I don’t think I could ever play a real hero — there’s always got to be something a little bit wrong. I love the director, Matt Reeves, and it’s a dope character. His morality is a little bit off. He’s not the golden boy, unlike almost every other comic book character. There is a simplicity to his worldview, but where it sits is strange, which allows you to have more scope with the character.”
Based on these comments, it’s fair to say Pattinson’s insight on the character is pretty spot on. Understanding that despite the hero aspects that obviously comes with Bruce Wayne, underneath it all, there’s much more to explore. Another layer deep inside that treads the line of becoming almost the villain of his story rather than the protector we’ve know him to be due to the trauma he’s faced as child. Judging from these thoughts, I wholeheartedly believe Pattinson’s bound to deliver one of if not THE most memorable portrayal of The Batman we’ve ever seen on screen. Maybe that’s too early to say given we don’t have any footage to go from as of yet, but I’ve just got a good feeling about this casting… We’re in for something special. That I can guarantee.
Why This Iteration Of The Batman Will Differ From Others:
Source: Hollywood Reporter
Speaking with Hollywood Reporter, Director Matt Reeves revealed a bit more on what he’s got planned for the upcoming installment, & why it’ll be vastly different from previous films to come in the past stating:
It’s very much a point of view-driven, noir Batman tale,” Reeves confirmed. “It’s told very squarely on his shoulders, and I hope it’s going to be a story that will be thrilling but also emotional. It’s more Batman in his detective mode than we’ve seen in the films. The comics have a history of that. He’s supposed to be the world’s greatest detective, and that’s not necessarily been a part of what the movies have been. I’d love this to be one where when we go on that journey of tracking down the criminals and trying to solve a crime, it’s going to allow his character to have an arc so that he can go through a transformation… There will be a Rogues Gallery. The casting process will begin shortly. We’re starting to put together our battle plan. I’m doing another pass on the script and we’ll begin some long-lead stuff to start developing conceptual things… We haven’t been dated. I wouldn’t commit to this, but we’re thinking the movie would probably be for 2021, late spring or summer. Warner Bros. has been incredibly supportive and given me a lot of time and shared the same passion that I do for this story.”
Source: Screenrant
This may very well be the most accurate & dramatic representation of the caped crusader so far! Showcasing the story of a broken young man who as a child tragically loses everything in the blink of an eye. Witnessing the unfortunate death of his parents in a brutal attack leaving him forced to grow up in a world where hope is nothing more but a mere fantasy, & through that darkness chooses to take matters into his own hands becoming the beacon of light in a city ruled by fear.
This time Reeves focus seems to be more centered on bringing some of the core aspects of the character to life that have yet to be fully explored, in a way no other previous director has done before. Truly defining the man behind the mask, & why Bruce Wayne is indeed the only one capable enough of donning the mantle as Gotham’s truest protector. Showcasing to us not only his incredible skills as a detective, but also & most of all his immense willpower to carry on no matter how dire & hopeless the situation may be. That is what makes the idea of Reeves vision so intriguing. Instead of repeating the same troupes, we’ll see this new incarnation from Reeves, break new ground entirely. Taking a well known hero most of us love, & showcasing him in a different light than we’re so used to. That is how a reboot SHOULD be.
Rogues Gallery:
Source: The Hollywood Reporter
Let’s not forget the other exciting detail mentioned here which is that for the first time ever, we’ll be getting a live action portrayal of the caped crusader finally going toe to toe with some of his greatest foes in all of comics. It’s fair to assume that we’re likely talking around 4 to maybe 5 villains at most, & quite frankly that is a lot to pack in for just one story. Maybe even a bit worrying for some giving Hollywood’s recent track record in trying this same attempt twice before in Spider-man 3 & The Amazing Spider-man 2. Both two very average films that left people highly disappointed to say the least, & not exactly reaching the level of success many of us would have hoped for. Too many characters in one movie is not always the wisest idea if not pre-planned first. So it’s understandable why anyone would be a bit nervous hearing such news since we’ve yet to see any director truly perfect this approach, but I’d say,given now the recent addition of Matt Reeves, we may finally be on our way to seeing this dream become a reality.
For almost a decade now, Reeves has given nothing but exceptional work throughout his career. Having delivered on some extremely highly-underrated hitters starting from 2008’s Cloverfield, to 2013’s Let Me in, & most importantly 2015’s Dawn Of The Planet Of the Apes, & 2017’s War For the Planet Of The Apes following the story of an evolved chimpanzee by the name of Ceaser played by Andy Serkis who eventually goes on to becoming world renowned leader & freedom fighter of the Apes Army in a war against humanity as a means of saving his people from the very brink of extinction.
Source: CinemaBlend
Even today, people still look at these films as one of the best trilogies to ever grace the screen, & who can blame them! They’re freakin amazing! So it should be no surprise to anyone that WB has taken a chance in Reeves to be the one to steer things in the right direction with their most valuable & profitable superhero of all time. And if that’s not enough for ya, Andy Serkis who I previously mentioned before has also been tapped to star as Alfred Pennyworth!
Lifelong friend, father figure, & caretaker to Bruce Wayne, & usually serves as his moral compass when he becomes blinded by vengeance. Andy Serkis on board a project like this is mind blowing in itself!
Giving the great relationship he shares with Reeves already, I’d say he is bound to play a much more pivotal role than we realize, & not just the typical bystander we’ve seen so many times in the past giving nothing but smart rimmarks. I’m sure his importance will be much bigger than we’re all expecting, & I for one can’t wait to see what Serkis brings to the character this time around. (Source: The Wrap)
Another huge name mentioned to be joining the frey alongside Serkis & Pattinson is none other than the legend himself, Jeffrey Wright! An actor many of you may already know from previous projects such as: HBO’s O.G, Netflix’s Hold The Dark, Source Code, Casino Royale, 2000’s Shaft, Hunger Games, & of course the hit sci-fi television series Westworld. Also officially confirmed by Variety, Wright is said to have landed the role of Commissioner Jim Gordon. One of Batman’s most loyal & trusted allies in gotham. Peviously played by academy award winners: J.K Simmons(Justice League) & Gary Oldman(The Dark Knight).
Source: Gizmodo.co.uk
Wright’s casting may come as a surprise to some. Giving the fact that for the very first time, we’re getting a black actor in this iconic role. Showing us that race shouldn’t always be a mandatory requirement when seeking talent. Times are changing.. We live in a world that is becoming more & more diverse with each passing day. We should be used to seeing people of all colors at the forefront now. Hollywood tends to talk so much about equality today, but haven’t really gone out of their way to live up to those words. It’s not enough to just talk about change, our actions need to follow through as well. Otherwise all we’re preaching is nothing but empty promises preventing any change from actually happening. Showcasing real diversity, & representing to audiences a cast that resembles themselves is what our society needs to see more of today. Especially in a time where it’s so easy to be divided amongst each other through hate, we need steps like these taken now more than ever! Setting an example for future generations that anyone regardless of their background can achieve greatness is the most inspiring thing we as people.
ENTER CATWOMAN:
Zoe Kravitz who may I add has also been confirmed by The Hollywood Reporter to have nabbed the leading role of anti-hero/love interest to the Dark Knight, Catwoman!
Beaten out fan favorites in: Eiza Gonzalez, Ana De Armas, & Alicia Vikander. Coming straight off of several successful projects herself being: Dope, Mad Max: Fury Road, Fantastic Beasts: Crimes of Grindelwald, Kin, Gemini, & now currently starring alongside giants that include: Merly Streep, Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, Shailene Woodley, Adam Scott, Luara Dern, Katherine Newton, & Alexsander Skarsgard, in one of HBO’s most popular drama series Big Little Lies, which has gone on to not only receive 16 emmy nominations in 2017 alone, but also won for outstanding limited series in 2018’s Emmy Awards. (Source: Comicbook)
Much like Pattinson, Kravitz has slowly grown into one of the most phenomenal & successful actors of her generation. Now following in the footsteps of her parents Leny Kravitz, & Lisa Bonet, & carving a name for herself within the media, becoming a well-known respected icon in her own right. Now given the role of a lifetime, being the next inline after the great Michelle Pfeiffer(Batman Returns) & Anne Hathaway(The Dark Knight Rises), in bringing one of DC’s most well-beloved characters Selina Kyle back to the big screen! Words can’t even begin to describe how ecstatic I am for her! Probably one of my favorite castings to come outta this film thus far. A true gem of talent, & capable enough to lead her own film. Beautiful, smart, funny, & a joy to watch no matter what she’s in. I have no doubt in my mind that she’ll blow us all away come 2021. Excellent choice from Reeves once again!
What I take most from Kravitz & Wright’s casting is that, we must begin to understand that excluding an entire group of people from opportunities solely because they make look different than others, is not only damaging to our way of living as a whole, but also cripples our ability to evolve mentally as a society as well. We must get used to the idea that at the end of it all are in fact ONE human race above all else, & the only way we can ever begin to build a better future for ourselves, is if we learn to look past our ignorance, & truly accept one another as people. THAT is how we’ll achieve true prosperity.
OTHER CASTINGS:
Paul Dano, Colin Farrell, John Turturro, & newcomer Jayme Lawson have also been confirmed by multiple insiders to be joining Pattinson in the upcoming reboot. Taking on roles of some of the most notorious villains in all of Gotham. The Riddler, & of course crime boss The Penguin heading the charge serving as the two central antagonists we’ll be seeing lead this new incarnation of The Batman. Paul Dano who’s widely known to some for his role as Preacher Paul Sunday in There Will be Blood where he co-starred with the great Daniel Day Lewis, has officially been cast as Edward Newton otherwise known as The Riddler! A character we haven’t seen live action since 1997 in Joel Schumacher’s Batman Forever played by actor/comedian Jim Carrey.
Source: DC Comics
Many fans have been eager to see what plans Reeves has in store for this iconic villain, & going off of his previous comments of wanting to create detective noir story this time, it’s fair to assume that the riddler may very well be the perfect foe to headline such a film. It’s an interesting but exciting direction to go. Rather than seeing a 5th iteration of the joker again, we’re finally about to see a new villain take the stage, & that’s what’s most intriguing. Dano is one hell of a performer & hasn’t nearly been given enough attention throughout the years. If you’re not too familiar with some of his work, films I’d advise you check out are: Prisoners, 12 years a slave, & Swiss Army Man. Hearing his name involved in this iteration shows WB is more concerned in searching for raw talent rather than relying on a big A Lister to draw in seats, & that’s great news all around because it gives off a indication of just how serious the studio is in giving the fans the best film possible. Dano is an inspiring choice, & is sure to do great in this role. A perfect match.
Source: Sherdog
Colin Farrell is probably the biggest surprise name to hear so far. I don’t think anyone could have predicted his involvement at all, but I am looking forward to seeing how his interpretation of the Penguin will differ from Danny devito’s version. From 2002’s Phone Booth, 2006’s Miami Vice, 2011’s Fright Night, to even 2012’s remake of Total Recall, all films I’d say show Farrell most definitely can bring the intensity needed for such a villain as Oswald Cobblepot aka the Penguin. The Batman has quickly become my most anticipated film of 2021, & for good reason of course. A jaw dropping cast like this is sure to take the rest of the comicbook fandom by storm!
Yes he maybe known most notably for his role as Simmons in Michael Bay’s Transformers, but John turturro has done much more serious films than that over the years and has way more to give as an actor when given the right material. Just take a look back at some of his work in either Spike Lee’s Do The right Thing, or HBO’s 2016 Limited Series The Night Of. The man has no problem going dark, & I think will end up surprising a lot of us once cameras start rolling early next year.
Warner Bros has slowly been winning over audiences left & right lately. Allowing creators the freedom to truly add their own unique voices to these characters without the worry of being tied down to a bigger shared universe. A vastly different approach from what Disney has established with Marvel Studios. Storytellers are now able to branch out to all kinds of genres within the DC world keeping things fresh & new. Without in any way coming off predictable or repeating things within the comicbook genre that’s already been done before, and judging from the recent success WB’s had with: 2017’s Wonder woman, 2018’s Aquaman & shazam, and now Joker which by the way has hit another milestone having currently made a $ 1 billion worldwide at the box office, & becoming the highest grossing R-rated film of all time, the possibilities are endless. There’s no telling how far they can go. They can only go up from here. That is not just a great thing for the DC property as a whole, but also for the entire fanbase as well.
Final Thoughts:
All this news has been for the most part overwhelming, but man am I pumped! We’re witnessing a masterpiece in the making..
More announcements are sure to be on the way in the next coming weeks. So be sure to keep an eye out for that, & check out our site Team JVS to catch up on all the latest DC/Marvel news in the future. Hope you all enjoyed reading this article. Let us know your thoughts on all the news surrounding this film, & what are you most exciting to see come from Pattinson as Batman or the film in general! We’d love to hear from you. Until next time, peace, stay safe, & happy holidays to you all!