Matt Reeves Discusses Ben Affleck’s Original Script for ‘The Batman’: “That was a totally valid take on the movie”
As we all know, Matt Reeves’ ‘The Batman’ achieved major success. While initially set in a separate continuity from the main DCEU, James Gunn’s influence and establishment of the DCU have significantly impacted ‘The Batman’ franchise.
Reeves continues to develop his trilogy of Batman films at Warner Bros., while Gunn plans his own Batman movies within the DCU. It remains to be seen how these two universes will intersect, given the success of Reeves’ film. However, as many are aware, ‘The Batman’ by Reeves had a different origin within the DCEU.
When Warner initially approached Reeves to direct a solo Batman movie, they presented him with the script written by Ben Affleck for himself before he stepped down as director. Although Reeves ultimately declined to use Affleck’s script and crafted his own story, he recently shared his personal thoughts on Affleck’s original screenplay.
In an older interview with Esquire, Reeves discussed his Batman movie. Given the current developments in the DCU, we believe it’s worthwhile to revisit this story and delve into what actually transpired, particularly in light of the significant changes influenced by Ben Affleck’s personal challenges at the time.
Reeves expressed his lifelong admiration for the characters, dating back to his childhood when he watched Adam West’s portrayal of Batman in the 1960s. He emphasized that Batman’s universe held a deeply personal and special place in his heart.
I’ve always felt that the Batman story was a very special story. He’s not really a superhero. He’s someone who’s driven by the pain of his past. He’s trying to find some way to make sense of his life. It’s a very psychological story. This is the character I relate to most.
Source: Esquire
When approached by the studio to direct a Batman movie, they initially wanted him to helm Affleck’s script. However, as Reeves explained, while the script was exciting, it wasn’t the movie he envisioned making.
I read a script that they had that was a totally valid take on the movie. It was very action driven. It was very deeply connected to the DCEU, with other major characters from other movies and other comics popping up. I just knew that when I read it this particular script was not the way I’d want to do it.
I said look, I think maybe I’m not the person for this. And I explained to them why I love this character. I told them that there have been so many great movies, but if I were to do this, I’d have to make it personal, so that I understood what I was going to do with it, so that I know where to put the camera, so that I know what to tell the actors, so that I know what the story should be. This take, I told them, pointing at the script, is a totally valid and exciting take. It is almost James Bond-ian, but it wasn’t something that I quite related to.
So what I’d love to do, if you’re interested, is I’d like to get involved and find a way to take the story and make it very, very personal and get to the place I want him to be, to make it a Batman story and give him the arc, and have the story rock him to his core. It wasn’t going to be another origin story, not with Ben already in the character. But that’s what I would do.
Source: Esquire
I said, but here’s the other thing. This is why I think you’re not going to want me to direct this movie. I can’t even tell you what that story is, for months, because I have to finish this Apes movie. And to my utter shock and surprise, they said, ‘you know what, we really would like you to do this. And we will wait.
Certainly, Reeves desired the job but felt it necessary to clarify certain aspects with the studio to prevent future complications. It’s a prudent approach, and we’re pleased Warner understood, ultimately leading to the creation of a true masterpiece. We eagerly anticipate the sequels!
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