One question that often arises among Batman fans — and frequently leads to a heated debate in the process — is who played the best version of The Caped Crusader? More than likely, such a debate boils down to either Adam West, George Clooney, Christian Bale and Michael Keaton, and it’s often the latter actor that takes home the proverbial mantle. But coupled with Christopher Nolan’s M.O., Bale’s rendition of Bruce Wayne can’t be under overstated, and it turns out the actor wanted to continue his run as Gotham’s watchful protector beyond the planned trilogy.
In fact, in a recent interview with Empire, the British actor spoke candidly about Ben Affleck’s involvement in Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice, and how he was initially jealous of someone taking up the coveted cape and cowl so soon after he hung it up.
“I’ve got to admit initially, even though I felt that it was the right time to stop, there was always a bit of me going, ‘Oh go on… Let’s do another.’ So when I heard there was someone else doing it, there was a moment where I just stopped and stared into nothing for half an hour.
“But I’m 40,” he said. “The fact that I’m jealous of someone else playing Batman…I think I should have gotten over it by now. I haven’t spoken with Ben, but I emailed him offering bits of advice that I learned the hard way. I would imagine he is doing everything he can to avoid anything that I did.”
As the torch was passed from one actor to the other, it’s interesting that Bale sent some advice to Affleck regarding the role. One of the pressing questions currently surrounding Dawn of Justice is whether the actor will sport a gruff voice in the vein of The Dark Knight trilogy or, conversely, opt for a more normal, authoritative tone. Alas, only time will tell, but we’re hoping that Affleck chooses the former, thereby giving his older, jaded Batman a sense of gravitas.
Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice is due to arrive in theaters on March 25th, 2016 — a film that will also mark Ben Affleck’s first appearance as The Caped Crusader. Tell us, what do you make of Christian Bale’s comments? Let us know below.
