If you were disappointed about Ben Affleck leaving the DC Extended Universe, you might be worrying too soon. Although DCEU introduced us to Robert Pattinson, who will be playing Bruce Wayne in the upcoming Batman movie, this may not be the end for Affleck as Batman as it seemed to be.
What Happened With Affleck?
When it was announced that Ben Affleck will be donning the cape, fans of DC criticised the decision right away. In 2003, Affleck had played a superhero in Daredevil, with a cameo in 2005 movie Elektra.
The movie was heavily criticised including Affleck’s performance. However, he not only redeemed but proved the naysayers wrong with his stint as Bruce Wayne in Batman vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016), entering the list along with Michael Keaton, Val Kilmer, George Clooney, and Christian Bale.
Affleck’s version of Batman was slightly different from the rest, showing him as a darker, more ruthless than its predecessors. He portrayed Wayne in his later years as the superhero. He appeared later in Suicide Squad (2016) and Justice League (2017).
Affleck was also to appear in a solo movie which he was also going to write and direct. Unfortunately, his long running issues with alcohol resurfaced and he had to go to rehab, departing from the team. He also mentioned the other reasons being dealing with his divorce, production issues with Justice League, and he was lacking interest at that point. He confirmed his departure in January 2019.
What Lies Next?
The confirmation of Affleck’s departure was further sealed when it was announced that Robert Pattinson will take on the role of the caped crusader. On the other hand, the Justice league movie had not received much favourable reviews. Zack Snyder, the initial director, stepped down during the production, handing over to Joss Whedon.
In the belief that only a fraction of the material shot by Snyder was used in the final cut, fans campaigned for a ‘Snyder cut’ version of the film, which would premiere on HBO Max in this year as a 4 part mini series and a combined 4 hour long movie. This would mark another appearance of Affleck as the Batman.
Can We Expect More of Batfleck?
Apart from the Snyder cut, Affleck currently ties with Christian Bale with maximum appearances as the Batman. As per the recent reports, he is also yet to appear in the upcoming Flash movie, starring Ezra Miller, breaking the tie. The movie would be showing the multiverse, which could certainly show a number of superheroes and even the Flashpoint arc. Michael Keaton would also appear as the Batman which could be the version in his Batman films.
Although this is not confirmed to be Affleck’s final appearance, fans are thankful to see him again. Because this was totally unexpected after his declaration, you never know we might see more of him in a Batman series or even better, a Batman Beyond flick where he could be seen mentoring Terry McGinnis and protecting the city behind the screen.
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