Current Batman actor Ben Affleck has informed the powers that be that he will no longer be directing the up coming solo Batman movie “The Batman”. The Batman would have been the first in a reported trilogy of solo Batman films that Affleck would have probably directed, written and starred in. Mr. Affleck will still star, produce and write the movie, which will feature the Caped Crusader do battle with villain for hire Deathstroke: The Terminator. Rumors have been flying as to what made Mr. Affleck have a change of heart. Some indicating that the recent failure of “The Accountant” and Live By Night, the latter which was directed by Mr. Affleck and was a passion project of his, was the final button in the decision to ax his directing The Batman.
Mr. Affleck released the following statement confirming his departure as director: “There are certain characters who hold a special place in the hearts of millions. Performing this role demands focus, passion and the very best performance I can give. It has become clear that I cannot do both jobs to the level they require. Together with the studio, I have decided to find a partner in a director who will collaborate with me on this massive film. I am still in this, and we are making it, but we are currently looking for a director. I remain extremely committed to this project, and look forward to bringing this to life for fans around the world.”
The DC Cinematic Universe has had a bumpy start with the release of Man of Steel and Batman v Superman in 2016. Mr. Affleck received tepid reviews as The Dark Knight in the super powered meeting between two out of the three of the companies most iconic heroes (Wonder Woman being the third). Can anyone forget this video interview footage right around the release of the film?
It would be safe to say that Mr. Affleck is in somewhat in a creative lull. But who can blame him. With some of the recent personal stuff going on, two failed films and a maligned Batman v Superman release…Mr. Affleck might have a harder time than expected tackling the caped Crusader and living up to the past three films by Christopher Nolan and Christian Bale.
