There are whispers and hints which have been circulating for quite some time regarding the focus of Batman vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice (actual title). Will the time be spread equally between Supes and Bats? Or will one character have more attention? While not a direct sequel to Man of Steel, Warner Bros had assured us in the past that Supeman would get as much focus as Batman (even though Bats got top billing). In fact, there have been statements that the movie directly ties with Man of Steel and will handle its consequences, implying a Superman heavy narrative. However, things may have changed.
Heroic Hollywood has an interesting scoop, stating that their sources are hinting that Warner Bros want more Batman in the film because of how great Ben Affleck is portraying the costumed vigilante:
“The latest hot rumor I am hearing is that Warners is requesting more Batman be put into the movie and less Superman. Supposedly, Ben Affleck’s Batman is so good that he is blowing Henry Cavill’s Superman right off the screen.
Like it or not, Batman has become the crown jewel of the DC Universe. Look at what is going in the video-game space with the Arkham series, or the fast-tracked Batman Lego movie spin off. Let alone the upcoming Suicide Squad is all Batman villains/characters. It is apparent how much more valuable the Dark Knight currently is than Superman.
With Ben Affleck riding high off of Argo and Gone Girl, he is one of the biggest movie stars on the planet. So it only makes sense Warners would want more of the potent combination of him and the Batman.”
What is interesting (and confirms this focusing shift on Bats) is the fact that Warner Bros has already announced the next few Batman films with Affleck directing and starring, but is still dragging their feet with the Man of Steel sequel, which still does not have a director, a screen writer, or a solid release date. In fact, it is put on definite hold, if rumors are to be believed. This bodes poorly for Henry Cavill’s Superman, who had potential but is now looking to be a side character in his own follow up movie. Warner Bros seems to have no clue in how to handle Superman. It is as if they are ashamed of his comic book roots, re-configuring him into a dark and grim character, which goes against his usual hopeful and idealistic demeanor. If this rumor is true, then it is a shame because Supeman is an amazing character. He just needs a competent creative team.
Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice drops in theaters on March 25, 2016