Delays in the release of the two-part 'Batman' film ignite further discussions about integrating other DC Universe titles
Delays in the release of the two-part 'Batman' film ignite further discussions about integrating other DC Universe titles
Currently, Batman finds himself in an unusual situation with Matt Reeves' The Batman universe coexisting with the new DCU universe, featuring a separate Batman for a 'Brave and the Bold' movie. Things are becoming increasingly complex.
Recently, it was revealed that Reeves' The Batman Sequel (it's not officially named that) will be postponed for a full year, from October 2026 to October 2027. Previously, it was rescheduled from 2024 to 2025, later to 2025 to 2026, making it a five-year delay from the original release date. This isn't exactly positive news, but James Gunn clarified on social media the primary reason for the delay:
"The sole reason for the delay is due to the lack of a completed script. Matt is determined to create the best film possible, and no one can predict precisely how long it will take to write a script. Once the script is finalized, it typically takes about two years for pre-production, filming, and post-production on large films."
However, it's not just The Batman that's facing delays; the DCU's own 'Brave and the Bold' project has also been "pushed back," according to director Andy Muschietti. In a recent interview, he mentioned:
"I'm now working on a science fiction movie that I'm keen on. Batman is a project that's been postponed for a bit. There could be another film before it, possibly that one."
Last we heard, the 'Brave and the Bold' script wasn't quite up to Muschietti's standards yet, as Gunn had stated previously. If the script isn't completed, and two years are required to produce a new film, we're looking at a potential release date of 2027 and beyond. If another film is made before it, it would likely push the release date even further, unless Muschietti remains as director. Muschietti was selected in 2023 due to James Gunn's enthusiasm for 'The Flash,' which turned out to be a substantial loss for WB in the DCEU. But this recent update suggests that he remains committed to the project.
These numerous delays and challenging scripts have led to fans speculating once more about the possibility of Robert Pattinson's Batman transitioning to the DCU Batman role. While this topic has been discussed before, there are significant issues to consider:
- If this were to happen, 'Brave and the Bold' would likely need to be scrapped. Integrating it with Pattinson's timeline and story in the Reeves' universe without some sort of time-jump trickery would be incongruous.
- The DCU would conflict significantly with the "realistic" tone of the Reeves' universe, which lacks supernatural or Clayface-like elements, contrasting with Gunn's desired route, which includes Clayface as a third movie in the DCU.
Despite these disparate vibes and universes creating potential issues, it should be noted that Batman and Superman share that trait as distinct characters. The 'World Finest' pairings have consistently produced successful outcomes in the comics, with Gotham and Metropolis having significantly different storylines.
At the moment, these plans do not seem to be underway. However, if The Batman Sequel is indeed delayed for 2-3 years and 'Brave and the Bold' is even further away, plans can certainly change. As things currently stand, it's possible that they will.
Make sure to follow me on Twitter, YouTube, Bluesky, and Instagram.
Pick up my sci-fi novels, 'Herokiller' series, and 'The Earthborn Trilogy.'
After the reveal of a full year delay for 'The Batman Sequel', fans are curious about the impact on the 'Brave and the Bold' project, which director Andy Muschietti mentioned has also been postponed. (The Batman Sequel being postponed)
Given the delays and challenges with scripts, speculations have arisen about the possibility of Robert Pattinson's Batman transitioning to the DCU Batman role, but such plans seem unlikely at this moment. (Speculations about Robert Pattinson's Batman transitioning)