Every year, rumors spread like wildfire regarding the possibility of a new Batman movie. This year is no different, as there have been several false alarms as of late. But the latest rumor from Europe is one that you might actually want to pay attention to.
According to a report from Variety, the Batman 2021 movie will star Robert Pattinson. And if the report is accurate, it will be the first time that the actor has stepped into the armored cowl since 2015’s Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.
The news of Robert Pattinson’s return to the role stoked the fires of speculation regarding a possible solo Batman movie. But considering that Pattinson has been spotted wearing the cowl multiple times over the past year, it’s clear that Batman is not the only one who wants him in the suit.
Why Robert Pattinson?
Thoughts on who should play Batman tend to bounce around between The Hardy Boys, Alfred Pennyworth, and John Krasinski. But one name that has consistently cropped up is Robert Pattinson. For one thing, he’s a fantastic actor who continues to impress. Plus, he has a knack for toeing the line between dark and funny. As a result, he’s always a safe choice when it comes to audience approval and critical acclaim.
Then there’s the issue of money. While Ben Affleck’s films have made a ton of money, they haven’t set the box office on fire. In fact, it was probably only a matter of time before Warner Bros. decided to cash in on the trend and send out a telegram to its contractually obligated screenwriter. (And let’s be honest, if they don’t write a Batman movie, who will?)
But what if they don’t want to go with a classic ‘60s superhero like Ironman or The Hulk? Maybe they want to mix it up and go with someone more modern? What if Batman isn’t a brand name but a blank canvas?
That’s what makes Robert Pattinson such an intriguing prospect. He could make for an interesting counter-culture superhero. Or he could channel his inner hipster and rocker, turning the character on its head.
A Possible Solo Batman Movie?
Warner Bros. has yet to confirm or deny the existence of a solo Batman movie. But based on the studio’s history of rebuffing rumors of a potential movie, it’s safe to assume that this year’s iteration will not be the last. (And let’s face facts: with Ben Affleck’s contract up in 2021, there will undoubtedly be another contender for the role.)
While it’s unclear if Pattinson will end up playing Batman, the actor has expressed his interest in the role. Perhaps sensing an opportunity, the studio could give him the option of playing a different character. Or, if not, then at least it will have created a memorable adversary for Batman to battle.
Based on the success of Birds of Prey (and the upcoming Black Widow solo movie), it’s apparent that superheroines are in right now. And if they keep making successful movies, perhaps one day soon we’ll see a gay Batman.
For now, let’s just bask in the glory of finally having a confirmed cast and crew for Batman 2021. It’s been a long time coming.