Ben Affleck came into his job as Batman in the DC Universe with big ambitions. But where actors like Christian Bale managed entire trilogies, Affleck only had the constant guest appearances in ensemble blockbusters like Justice League or Suicide Squad. His greatest appearance was in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.
He will probably forever remain the unfinished Dark Knight in the line of the many Batman actors. That’s clear from a new interview Affleck gave to the Hollywood Reporter in support of his new film Air.
Ben Affleck on his superhero future: ‘Never want to do anything like it again’
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Like almost all Batman actors, Affleck was initially controversial among fans. However, even without a solo film, he developed into a permanent and popular figure in the so-called Snyder-Verse, which was coined by director Zack Snyder. Affleck was even supposed to direct a Batman film. Meanwhile, James Gunn has taken over the creative leadership of the DC Universe – and cleaned it up. As an actor, Affleck plays no role in Gunn’s plans. However, a directing job was under discussion. There was a rumor that Affleck would direct the new Batman movie The Brave and the Bold.
None of this is true, according to Affleck. With surprising clarity that borders on frostiness, Affleck brushes aside all DC business games about himself. Speaking to THR, Affleck states that he “Nothing Gunn-DC would direct for. Absolutely not. I have nothing against James Gunn. Netter, I’m sure he’s doing a great job.”
Now comes the crucial sentencewhich should cause many observers of DC development under Gunn to frown:
I just wouldn’t want to direct the way they do. I’m not interested.
What exactly Affleck with “of the kind” says, which James Gunn is apparently pursuing, he does not elaborate. Maybe he doesn’t like the style. James Gunn plans a universe that will grow along the lines of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, so with many direct connections between the characters and films. Gunn is also known for his sometimes cynical humor. But he can also make candid ensemble films, as his thoroughly emotional Guardians of the Galaxy series shows.
The fact that Ben Affleck is turning his back on the DC Universe and superhero films in general does not (only) have to do with James Gunn. Apparently, Justice League’s disaster shoot forever spoiled it for the genre:
I wanted to direct Batman and [JusticeLeague] made me say ‘I’m out. I never want to do any of that again.’
DC fans can say goodbye to Ben Affleck in The Flash
Everything indicates that Ben Affleck’s DC time is finally up. Seven years after his first appearance in Batman v Superman, he gets a farewell appearance in The Flash, another ensemble blockbuster. The length of the performance according to Ben Affleck: 5 minutes. The Flash opens on June 15, 2023. Before that, Affleck’s new directorial work Air starts on April 6.
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