This story has been updated for “The Flash,” and contains spoilers. As long as there are movie theaters and popcorn, there will always be a Batman at the movies. Case in point: “The Flash,” which can be seen as a Batman movie in disguise. Michael Keaton, who hasn’t missed a beat as Batman, holds his own alongside other superheroes for the first time. Meanwhile, Ben Affleck returns to the role of the Dark Knight, hoping to leave a positive impression after a controversial take. And let’s not forget the secret bat-cameo at the end of the movie.
The Batman franchise, created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane in the 1930s, has spawned numerous screen adaptations over the years, from movie serials to TV shows to animated titles. While many actors have portrayed Batman, let’s take a look at the live-action Batmen in Warner Bros./DC’s modern film franchise since 1989. Here’s a lighthearted assessment of the Dirty Half-Dozen.
Films: “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” (2016), “Suicide Squad” (2016), “Justice League” (2017)
Vibe: Can a human vigilante find his place among superpowered beings?
Batsuits: Armored for supernatural warfare. Long live the giant logo!
If only Ben Affleck had been given a solo Batman movie like the other actors on this list. Or had better one-on-one scenes with other Justice League members, like in “The Flash,” where he’s able to showcase his unclenched humanity. Unfortunately, confined to team-up movies, “Batfleck” didn’t quite get the justice he deserved on the big screen. However, his suit designs were on point, and he certainly looked the part. Affleck seemed more comfortable portraying Bruce Wayne, the self-assured playboy, rather than the world-weary Batman. Perhaps Batman works better alone on the big screen. But hey, at least we have the Sad Affleck meme.
Film: “Batman & Robin” (1997)
Vibe: Slow-moving train wreck.
Batsuits: We’re getting into a weird area here.
Director Joel Schumacher’s 1997 Batman film drove the franchise into dormancy until the mid-2000s. George Clooney’s portrayal of Batman and Bruce Wayne was too seamless for our taste, and his suave superhero lacked the necessary sense of vengeance. Let’s not forget those infamous rubber nipples on Clooney’s suit. Yes, you read that right. Also, fun fact: Clooney’s Batman is the only one known to keep a credit card in his utility belt. In “The Flash,” his cameo feels like a quick nod from one of his Nespresso commercials. In another universe, where Warner Bros. didn’t aim for a kids’ Batman movie in the late ’90s, Clooney could have been the ultimate Batman. But alas, we’ll never know.
Film: “Batman Forever” (1995)
Vibe: Putting the “dynamic” in Dynamic Duo.
Batsuits: Masterful in their menace, despite the initial nipples.
The mid-’90s raised the question of who could take over the role of Batman after Keaton. Director Joel Schumacher decided to go with blond ambition and cast Val Kilmer as Batman alongside Chris O’Donnell’s Robin. Kilmer’s Bruce Wayne was sophisticated, and the father/son dynamic between Batman and Robin clicked. “Batman Forever” successfully brightened the franchise after Tim Burton’s darker take. While Kilmer was a one-and-done Wayne, the film remains highly rewatchable.
Film: “The Batman” (2022)
Vibe: What brooding dudes do in the shadows.
Batsuit: Precisely built for function over form.
Robert Pattinson, known for his role as a tween-friendly vampire, brings his gravitas to the role of Batman in “The Batman.” Director Matt Reeves creates a dark and gritty atmosphere akin to a David Fincher thriller. This Batman is obsessed with his masked identity and shows little interest in being Bruce Wayne. Pattinson manages to convey both pain and attraction beneath the mask, while finding his voice inspired by taciturn yet emotive gunslingers. It’s been a while since we’ve seen a rookie Bat-performance this strong.
Films: “Batman Begins” (2005), “The Dark Knight” (2008), “The Dark Knight Rises” (2012)
Batsuits: Mobility improved over time, but the underwhelming logo remains.
Christian Bale’s shape-shifting portrayal of Batman helped bring the character into Christopher Nolan’s grounded and realistic world. Bale delivered one of the most memorable Batman movie lines and gave a tour de force performance, despite being burdened with the worst modern Batman suit.
Films: “Batman” (1989), “Batman Returns” (1992)
Vibe: Putting the “goth” in Gotham.
Batsuits: A vision in dark rubber that has yet to be topped.
When Warner Bros. needed a big-screen Batman to go up against Jack Nicholson’s Joker, they turned to established actor Michael Keaton. Keaton’s portrayal of Batman was shadowy, silent, and intimidating. Keaton brought depth to the character and his return in “The Flash” solidifies his top ranking. His old man Bruce Wayne with long hair and a beard is a sight to behold, and his return to the batsuit is epic.
In conclusion, Batman has had many iterations on the big screen, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. From Keaton to Affleck to Pattinson, each actor has brought something unique to the role. But in the end, it’s Keaton’s dark and brooding Batman that remains a fan favorite.
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