How Robert Pattinson Could Become The…

Whispers of Gotham: Could Pattinson’s Batman Find a Home in the DCU?

Speculation ripples across the superhero landscape: could Robert Pattinson’s Batman, as depicted in Matt Reeves’ striking vision, become the definitive Caped Crusader of the new DC Universe (DCU)? Rumors hint that James Gunn and DC Studios might entertain the idea. But here’s the catch—Gunn’s upcoming DCU appears to be a beast of a different color, distinct from Reeves’ gritty Gotham. Still, if it were to happen, could it bridge the divide? Perhaps. Before you shrug it off, precedent for such a narrative twist does exist in the pages of DC Comics.

A Realistic Batman in a Fantastical DC Universe?

Reeves’ Batman paces through a gritty, realistic Gotham, which seems worlds away from the supernatural antics in "Creature Commandos" or the new Superman adventures. Yet, comic aficionados might recall a similar scenario. Frank Miller’s "Batman: Year One" revived Batman in a real-world setting without a trace of the cosmic or supernatural. This grounded Gotham still managed to coexist with a broader, more fantastical DC universe. So far, we’ve only glimpsed one film in this Reeves-powered saga. Over time, maybe, injections of fantasy could blend seamlessly into future sequels.

There’s a theory that allows for time shifts between "The Batman" and the DCU ramp-up, including future DC icons like Superman. Reeves’ Gotham appeared in an era reminiscent of the 2020s. However, it’s possible DCU narratives, featuring Superman and his ilk, might unfold in a slightly more distant future. Allow for the passage of time, and suddenly a narrative bridge appears for Pattinson’s Batman to slip into broader DCU timelines. Gunn hints at a DCU with history, stretching back to World War II, carving space for both historical and modern superheroes. With such storytelling wiggle room, anything feels achievable for this Dark Knight.

Lessons from the Maverick Marvel Universe

Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) offers a model for this blending. Remember the thrill of "Iron Man" debuting in 2008? Few expected that Tony Stark’s tech wizardry would soon mingle with Asgardian gods and otherworldly creatures. Subsequent films like "The Incredible Hulk" and "Iron Man 2" soon unfolded, gradually expanding the MCU’s tapestry. A mention or hint in "The Batman – Part II" could stretch the narrative threads without jarring the existing storyline. If DC desires, they could seamlessly retrofit Reeves’ Batman as the DCU progenitor.

The pitch for Pattinson’s Batman within the new DCU mirrors debates of a decade past. Post "Dark Knight" trilogy, there were whiskers of hope that Christian Bale’s Batman might join Henry Cavill’s Superman in a shared universe. Such interconnected stories might have delivered box office gold and layered storytelling. However, Christopher Nolan resisted, keeping his Batman saga exclusive and complete. Will Matt Reeves erect similar creative boundaries for his portrayal of Bruce Wayne? The answer lies just beyond the horizon, and fans will soon learn which direction these cinematic streets will take Batman.