Batman Part 2: Time to Cancel?

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Summary

  • The Batman: Part 2‘s delays and actor availability raise concerns about its future and suggest cancellation is possible.
  • They should consider subsuming “Battinson” into the DC Universe to avoid Batman oversaturation.
  • Matt Reeves’ creative vision may clash with Warner Bros. and DC Studios, potentially affecting The Batman: Part 2’s development.

Nowadays, fans who follow superhero movies closely are certainly aware of the commotion surrounding “The Batman 2”. Initially seen as the highly anticipated sequel following DC’s most recent acclaimed hit (the 2022 release of “The Batman”), the sequel has transformed into a protracted test of endurance between Warner Bros., director Matt Reeves, and an increasingly anxious DC fanbase.

As a dedicated movie enthusiast, let me share some recent updates on “The Batman: Part 2”. Over the past seven months, this anticipated sequel has faced three delays, and its leading man, Robert Pattinson, is now in discussions for another project, “Dune 3”, slated to start filming this summer – around the time he should be donning the cape and cowl. To make matters more intriguing, director Matt Reeves has yet to submit a script. Although reassurances have been given by the director and studio execs about the movie not being scrapped, recent developments suggest that it’s not just possible but essential for this film to happen.

The Batman: Part 2 Should Be Canceled In Favor Of The DCU Batman Films

What’s Better Than Two Batmen? One Batman

As a dedicated film enthusiast, I find myself pondering a question that’s become increasingly relevant: “Should we proceed with The Batman: Part 2, or should we shift focus to the DCU Batman instead?” It’s a tough call, but one that needs to be made.

While he might don the cape and cowl, it’s important to remember that viewers have a plethora of other heroes and genres to choose from. Therefore, the idea of multiple Batmen from different sub-franchises might not resonate with everyone just yet. This potential switch could streamline our storytelling, resolving the franchise’s complexity for a more coherent narrative experience.

It’s reasonable to assume that the substantial gap between the release dates of The Batman and its sequel, The Batman: Part 2, won’t negatively impact the latter’s box office success. The extended wait for Avatar: The Way of Water serves as a precedent; instead, it might boost interest due to prolonged anticipation. However, there’s a significant distinction here: fans need to witness THE Batman, not just any Batman. If multiple iterations are in play concurrently, it could foster the idea that “it’s simply another Caped Crusader” among potential viewers.

In an ideal scenario, supporters might prefer the less problematic option – integrating Robert Pattinson’s Batman into James Gunn’s DC Universe. However, there are significant challenges associated with this plan, starting with Pattinson being 38 years old, which contradicts the concept of a long-term Batman and the mismatch between the grim “Reevesverse” and the lively atmosphere of the DCU. Nevertheless, if Marvel Studios can successfully reintroduce Wolverine and pair him with Deadpool while unifying both characters under the MCU, then DC Studios executives James Gunn and Peter Safran could potentially devise a solution as well.

The Delay Of The Batman: Part 2 Could Be A Product Of Ongoing Creative Friction

A Behind-the-Scenes Stand-Off Between Matt Reeves and Warner Bros. or DC Studios Executives Is Not Impossible

Essentially, the bond between Reeves, Warner Bros., Gunn, and Safran appears to be strong. In mid-April, Mike De Luca and Pam Abdy, who lead the company, subtly reinforced the studio’s commitment to Reeves and his sequel project by stating:

In simpler terms, we’re not deeply involved in the specifics of the Batman projects. Instead, James Gunn and Peter Safran are primarily handling DC-related matters. We do coordinate with Matt Reeves to some extent, but both James and Peter understand that he is a talented writer and director who will take charge when he has perfected his script for Batman.

While there’s speculation that Reeves’ vision for the sequel might not align with those of David Zaslav, Gunn, and Safran. Warner Bros has a reputation for interfering with directorial visions, and even though Reeves is known for maintaining strong creative control, it’s plausible that studio executives may request modifications to prevent another situation like the controversial Joker: Folie à Deux. If Reeves is indeed being encouraged to make concessions, this could explain the ongoing revisions in the script of The Batman: Part 2. And if past experiences are any indication, even a successful initial film doesn’t guarantee a director complete creative freedom. A case in point is Sam Raimi, whose Spider-Man 4 never materialized due to studio disagreements hindering development, despite the trilogy’s remarkable success.

Realistically, The Batman Is Best Left As A Standalone Modern Masterpiece

Remember What Happened When Joker Spawned A Sequel?

After Christopher Nolan’s “Dark Knight Trilogy,” the Batman character has had difficulty maintaining widespread appeal. Ben Affleck’s portrayal didn’t resonate as strongly, and while Robert Pattinson’s version received critical acclaim, it did so within a self-contained narrative. Many fans, excluding die-hard Batman enthusiasts, have shown more enduring interest in solo Batman films rather than those in a franchise setting. Essentially, the broader the “Batman universe” expands, the higher the risk of it following the same path as “Joker: Folie à Deux.” Perhaps “The Batman” could follow the model of the 2019 “Joker” movie—a standalone Elseworlds tale where a character navigates his new identity.

What can we expect from The Penguin season 2 if it’s produced? In that case, the second season could continue in the manner of the previous one – a spin-off series without Gotham’s vigilante. Oz Cobblepot, now the city’s ruler, sets up an intriguing stage for a series of encounters among villains. There are still many dangerous characters from Gotham yet to surface, such as Black Mask, who could potentially make an appearance. The success of a Batman-less show has already been shown through viewership and critical reception in the first season, so there’s no need for concern.

No Matter What Happens With The Batman: Part 2, Matt Reeves Still Deserves A Spot In The DCU

By 2025, it’s fair to say that many people consider Matt Reeves an exceptional filmmaker, perfect for creating dark and gritty stories. If Warner Bros. and DC Studios were to discard The Batman: Part 2, they would be making a mistake. James Gunn might be keen on having someone with such talent in the DC Universe, potentially working on projects set in Gotham City. However, it won’t become Batman: The Brave and the Bold unless director Andy Muschietti is replaced.

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2025-05-05 21:05