Why the DCU Should Not Merge With The Batman

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As a die-hard cinema enthusiast, I’ve been eagerly awaiting the debut of DC Studios into its own cinematic realm with James Gunn’s Superman slated for July 11, 2025. The question that has sparked much debate among fans is whether Robert Pattinson’s Batman from Matt Reeves’s The Batman should be incorporated into the DCU as its definitive Batman. However, there are several compelling arguments why the DCU and The Batman Epic Crime Saga should continue independently.

Matt Reeves’ hectic and secluded schedule for his upcoming film, The Batman: Part 2, scheduled for 2025, should be kept distinct from any potential stories that may emerge within the DC Universe. Although there is a desire among some to see David Corenswet’s Superman and Robert Pattinson’s Batman as the World’s Finest duo, here are several reasons why merging the DCU with The Batman might not be advisable.

6. A Fresh Chance for a High-Tech Ninja Batman

A Batman More Aligned with Comics and Games Over Realism

It appears that many people adore Batman and aspire to portray him. To date, there hasn’t been a particularly poor representation of Batman in live-action, with each actor drawing on various aspects of the 85-year-old character. Given this rich tapestry, it is now fitting to fully embody the comic book essence of Batman, especially as seen in the popular Batman Arkham video game series, which showcases his array of gadgets, combat styles, costumes, and adversaries.

In the event that Robert Pattinson’s Batman from “The Batman” were to become part of the DC Universe (DCU), viewers might find it challenging to suspend their disbelief, given his previous emo persona and the abrupt shift to handling fantastical sci-fi equipment, battling assassins, and engaging in nightly crime-fighting. The DCU has the capacity to develop a fresh Batman character that aligns closely with reality.

5. It Puts a Time Limit on Bruce Wayne as Batman

Robert Pattinson’s Age and Projects Might See Him Retire

When The Batman Part 2 premieres, Robert Pattinson will be 41 years old, which is only three years younger than Ben Affleck was when Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice was released in 2016. Given that Ben Affleck portrayed a gritty Batman over a decade into his crime-fighting career, it seems somewhat surprising that Pattinson’s Batman is in his second year, especially considering they are nearly the same age. This age difference may also limit the range of abilities we can expect from Pattinson’s portrayal.

Initially, it appears that Robert Pattinson may not wish to commit his career entirely to a cinematic universe, preferring to explore other intriguing ventures such as “Mickey 17” and Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of “The Odyssey”. It seems unjust and absurd to maintain an open schedule for possible spin-offs and sequels related to Batman, given that it is evident that such interactions with the Justice League, Superman, and Bat Family members are not what initially drew him to portray the character.

4. The Bat-Family Needs Its Own Space

Pattinson’s Batman is Just Beginning, Whereas the DCU Batman Has a Whole Family

With the DCU unveiling “The Brave and the Bold”, viewers are in for an established version of Batman who’s already got a Bat Team. This implies that characters like Dick Grayson, Jason Todd, Tim Drake, and others could be his trusted allies in Batman’s fight against crime. Moreover, it’s high time for this Bat Team, or the Bat Family, to have their spotlight in live-action, as they’ve largely been portrayed as solo figures until now.

Considering DCU’s intention to incorporate the Bat Family, some fans argue that Robert Pattinson’s portrayal of Batman might not be suitable for this role because:
1. This is a relatively inexperienced Batman, having only been crime-fighting for two years.
2. His depiction appears to lack the characteristic camaraderie and teamwork with Robin and Batgirl, which are essential traits of the Caped Crusader.
3. The plot twist of discovering a son early in his career seems implausible and forced, even considering an unfair time skip.

3. Two Batmen is Something Audiences Are Okay With

Robert Pattinson Deserves His Separated Gritty Emo Batman

Although The Flash (2023) might not have been widely popular among fans, there’s no arguing the intrigue generated by having two distinct Batmen appearing on screen, even if they don’t share a universe. Given the familiarity of multiverse and Elseworlds concepts to today’s audiences, it makes perfect sense and is quite acceptable that we could have two independent Batman films set in different realms.

Robert Pattinson has shown he’s well-suited for the complex, gritty, and authentic portrayal of Batman, but it might be refreshing for the DC Universe to introduce a new Batman who can bring a sense of believability to its more fantastical aspects. The DCU shouldn’t shy away from exploring fresh creative territories by combining universes, as this could potentially confuse audiences and restrict the tonal freedom required for both storylines to thrive.

2. The DCU Needs Fantastical Whereas Matt Reeves Needs Realism

It Would Remove the Grounded Elements of Matt Reeves’s World

One striking feature of Batman’s tale is his extraordinary roster of villains. Apart from featuring one of literature’s most formidable adversaries in The Joker, Batman boasts a remarkable collection of antagonists that deserve thorough examination, showcasing their captivating and fantastical essence. To fully appreciate the DC Universe, these villains need to be brought to life authentically, making the world feel expansive and immersive. Characters such as Poison Ivy, Mr. Freeze, and many more wouldn’t retain their distinct charm if they were stripped of the realism and adaptations that preserve what makes them special and unique from the beginning.

Matt Reeves’s portrayal of Batman emphasizing a more realistic approach, such as using a squirrel suit for gliding rather than his cape, underscores the emphasis on realism in The Batman Epic Crime Saga. While this focus is commendable and appropriate for this particular storyline, it strengthens the argument that the DC Universe could benefit from embracing more fantastical elements to distinguish these stories effectively.

1. The Batman Epic Crime Saga Should Grow Its Personal Stories

Individual Stories for Penguin, Catwoman, and More Showcase a Unique Gotham City

One of the standout features of The Batman is its deep exploration of Batman’s character and his complex villains. The dynamic between Batman and Catwoman is outstanding, and the fact that we get to delve deeper into the life of the Penguin through his own HBO series demonstrates that the Batman Epic Crime Saga isn’t just a three-part trilogy focused on Batman; instead, there is ample space within Gotham City for these diverse narratives to unfold.

Although incorporating supernatural villains could be restricted by realism, a Gotham filled with psychopaths and a criminal underworld offers ample opportunity for spin-offs across HBO, MAX, and cinema. This suggests that The Batman Epic Crime Saga should maintain its distinct Gotham, detached from the DCU, as it’s challenging to envision Oswald Cobblepot, in his character, mingling with the Justice League. Given the dark tone of the series, it seems more fitting for it to retain its grit and edge.

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2025-01-09 21:34