Robert Pattinson’s upcoming appearance as the Caped Crusader in Justice League is just around the corner, and we’ve got the first official look at his costume. As you may have guessed, it’s inspired by an iconic look from the 1960s television show.
The actor transformed himself into his own interpretation of Batman for the camera as part of his preparation for the part, incorporating vintage costumes and accessories from the original TV series along with modern-day styling choices. During the filming of the movie, Pattinson’s costume was custom made, and now it’s available for public consumption.
Vintage Suits From The ’60s
It’s hard to believe that a decade has passed since the premier of The Batman television series in January of 1968.
The show’s timeless status is a testament to the incredible designs created by the legendary character artist William Stout and the talented team of animators who brought those designs to life onscreen. Stout’s unique and individual style gave the suits a timeless appeal, and it’s easy to see why.
The show premiered at a time when Batman was at the height of his popularity, having just completed his first film and receiving mostly positive reviews. Stout and his team of creators could not have predicted the character’s lasting appeal, and neither could they have predicted the cultural impact that the show would have in terms of style and fashion. Even now, more than forty years after its premiere, The Batman is regularly credited with bringing about the modern superhero era.
The costumes for the various superheroes were groundbreaking for the times, and the show’s influence can still be felt today in the designs of modern-day heroes. Even the most casual of fans will enjoy identifying the various references to the original series in Bruce Wayne’s (Pattinson) costume, and fashion aficionados will delight in studying the evolution of the superhero costume from season one to present day.
Pattinson’s Dark Knight
The British actor is best known for playing Edward Cullen in the Twilight films, for which he’s won numerous awards, but he’s also shown great versatility in the roles he’s taken on. Last year, Pattinson portrayed the titular character in Tim Burton’s Dark Shadows, and he followed that up in 2016 with the titular role in the Guy Ritchie-helmed Sherlock Holmes. This year, he’ll be seen as Batman in Justice League.
The Dark Shadows and Sherlock Holmes costumes were modern takes on Sherlock Holmes, whose original appearance in the Conan Doyle stories was in the 20s. Interestingly, in many ways, the Sherlock Holmes of today is closer to the character as he was originally envisioned by the great Sherlock Holmes creator, Arthur Conan Doyle. That was forty years ago, and today, thanks to modern cinema, Holmes is more popular than ever before, which has undoubtedly contributed to Pattinson’s choice to play the character again. It’s also interesting to see Holmes being played by a younger actor, as the character is traditionally portrayed as a senior citizen.
Get The Look
Pattinson’s choice to represent Batman in a unique vintage suit is a fantastic decision, and we’re absolutely thrilled to have it. Thanks to the actor’s unique perspective, we were able to identify several iconic pieces of the 1960s television series that he incorporated into his design, which we’d love to see you replicate if you’re planning on dressing up as Batman for Halloween this year.
Many of Stout’s original designs, including those of the Batmobile and Robin, are available for purchase from merchants like Bonjoro, and you can use this link to access their custom-made vintage Batman collection. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind piece that will outfit your Halloween wardrobe for years to come, this is the perfect opportunity to purchase it. Be sure to check out the various designs that Stout created for The Batman over the years, if you’re interested in seeing the evolution of the superhero costume beyond what is available for public consumption on the movie set.