The Batman director Matt Reeves confirms the film is not an origin story. Initially planned as a standalone vehicle for Ben Affleck’s iteration of the Dark Knight, The Batman has since evolved into something else entirely. With Affleck stepping down from the DC Extended Universe, Robert Pattinson is taking over the role, marking the actor’s return to major franchise fare. Surrounding Pattinson with a star-studded supporting cast that includes Jeffrey Wright, Andy Serkis, Colin Farrell, Paul Dano, and Zoe Kravitz, The Batman is arguably the most exciting upcoming comic book adaptation – whenever it’s able to come out in theaters.
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Since Pattinson is 14 years younger than Affleck, fans are wondering what version of the Caped Crusader they’ll see in The Batman. About a year ago, it was reported the new film would not retread Batman’s well-known origin story, instead portraying him as a hero who has some experience under his belt, while still trying to fully find his way in certain areas. Now, Reeves has gone ahead and confirmed this plot detail, giving viewers a basic idea of his approach.
Speaking with Nerdist about the new Amazon show Tales from the Loop, Reeves discussed his idea for The Batman and how he’s handling the character’s origins:
“I wanted to do not an origin tale, but a tale that would still acknowledge his origins, in that it formed who he is. Like this guy, he’s majorly struggling, and this is how he’s trying to rise above that struggle. But that doesn’t mean that he even fully understands, you know. It’s that whole idea of the shadow self and what’s driving you, and how much of that you can incorporate, and how much of it you’re doing that you’re unaware of.”
This is definitely a wise move on Reeves’ part, especially since Batman’s origin is ingrained in pop culture. It’s a moment that’s been depicted onscreen multiple times in the past (including last year’s Joker) and most viewers would probably be in favor of skipping over it in order to tackle a more interesting story. It’s reminiscent of the way the Marvel Cinematic Universe handled Spider-Man, making allusions to Uncle Ben’s death as a young Peter Parker attempts to come into his own as a hero. Based on what Reeves is saying, it sounds like Pattinson’s Bruce Wayne is still dealing with the heavy emotional trauma of losing his parents and trying to overcome that adversity as he molds himself into the World’s Greatest Detective. That foundation would allow Bruce to have a compelling character arc in The Batman without rehashing overly familiar elements.
It’s possible Thomas and Martha Wayne’s deaths are glimpsed in The Batman via a quick flashback or dream sequence (illustrating the toll that event has taken on Bruce), but it’s good to know the film won’t be a straightforward origin story. Those still have a place in the genre today (see: last year’s Captain Marvel), but the trope reads as largely unnecessary for a character like Batman. Since The Batman’s production is currently delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic, fans may have to wait a little longer than expected to see the final product, but it should be worth it.
Source: Nerdist
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