MOVIE NEWS – With James Gunn and Peter Safran steering the DC Universe reboot, the project is shaping up quickly. Creature Commandos is a month away from release, Superman has wrapped up filming, DC Studios has found its Green Lanterns, and a slew of new projects are announced. But there’s a major question hanging over the new DCU, looming like a shadowy figure on a rooftop: What will James Gunn do about Batman?
Earlier this month, James Gunn dismissed a popular rumor about casting a middle-aged Batman in the DCU. The reports claimed DC Studios was seeking an older actor for the role of Batman, but Gunn’s response has led fans to believe the new DCU Batman may be younger, similar to Matt Reeves’ portrayal. However, a younger Batman poses significant issues for the franchise’s continuity.
With nearly the entire Bat Family set to appear, the DCU faces a conundrum. Recently, DC Studios announced animated and live-action projects featuring Dick Grayson and Jason Todd. Furthermore, Bruce Wayne’s standalone movie, The Brave and the Bold, will introduce his biological son, Damian Wayne. Fans are eager to see the Robins on the big screen (still holding out for Tim Drake). But how can a Batman in his 20s have trained three heroes and fathered a teenage son by The Brave and the Bold?
Batman Should Be Older, But Not “Old”
Rumors about casting an older Batman circulated after reports emerged that Josh Brolin was being eyed for an older Hal Jordan in Lanterns. Some fans ran with the idea, imagining DCU heroes all portrayed as older. However, just because DC Studios’ Batman needs experience, doesn’t mean he should be “old.” Whoever takes on Batman’s role is likely committing to multiple films, making it unlikely for an older actor to handle the physical demands.
A Batman in his 30s opens up narrative possibilities across the DCU. Gunn and Safran could use a wide range of iconic Batman comics as source material. With Gunn keeping Batman’s casting under wraps, fans may have to wait a while for more news on The Brave and the Bold.
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