In the case of an enduring icon such as the Batman, pretty much everybody on Earth has that one actor in mind who should play him. From A-listers down to lesser known martial arts experts, there exist a variety of opinions regarding this matter. Personally, I tend to leave it to the studio and trust the director’s instincts.
If we’re to go by the social media barometer though, then Robert Pattinson sure isn’t finding as much favor as the Powers That Be would hope. Then again, if public opinion really mattered, then Michael Keaton, Christian Bale and Heath Ledger would’ve been canned before setting foot in Gotham City – and we all know how great each of their respective roles turned out.
So, even though it appears the suits in Burbank are leaning toward Pattinson, there’s still a glimmer of hope for the Nicholas Hoult camp. Here’s what The Wrap’s own Umberto Gonzalez had to offer on Twitter:
“BATMAN UPDATE: Robert Pattinson & Nicholas Hoult are screen testing for the role. I suspect they’re screen testing in the Batsuit because Wardrobe Department will need full wardrobe test. Additionally, the film will now start production in Q1 2020.”
When it comes to wardrobe, it remains to be seen which costume each man will don for said tests. The trivia buffs among you should remember how Christian Bale actually tested in Val Kilmer’s suit from Batman Forever, so the crew may just use whatever’s readily available, perhaps even something worn by Ben Affleck. Still, this should be no indicator as to how the next Caped Crusader will look.
Right now, I’m remaining optimistic as to whomever gets the go-ahead. Though I’d admittedly prefer Nicholas Hoult myself, I’m fine with Robert Pattinson because I’m aware that he’s starred in movies apart from the Twilight series. Again, trust Matt Reeves and let’s see how this pans out.
The Batman opens in theaters on June 25th, 2021.
