Robert Pattinson’s The Batman 2 delay has recently led audiences to wonder if Pattinson’s Batman will be aiding the new DCU under James Gunn or not. There is confusion on whether Pattinson’s darker, solo Batman will be part of the DCU or not after the film is set for October 1, 2027 release.
James Gunn, the co-head of the DC Studios has come out to dismiss the speculation stating that he did consider Kevin’s Batman in the DCU. Still, Gunn did not go for it in the end; instead, he left Pattinson’s Batman in the Enteworlds universe. Gunn later said that he had to go for different stories in the DCU and Elseworlds because it provided more creative outlets.
Even Matt Reeves – the director of The Batman has said that he also likes the idea of having his Batman outside the DCU. In terms of neo-noir (and thus the Elseworlds idea), Reeves’ idea to tell the story of Batman and his son Damian Wayne is more suitable. Reeves also thinks that incorporating Pattinson’s Batman into the DCU would change the tenor and hinder narrative potential. Forbes sources indicate that Reeves spoke about the plot of The Batman 2, and confirmed that it will be set outside the DCU.
What Does This Mean for Fans?
The fact that Pattinson will be released from the Batman part of the DCU may also be disappointing for those who are looking forward to his performance and affiliation with the character. However, if it also means less of a given higher concept that ties all stories together, they have more to look forward to than counterpart stories focused solely on Batman that adhere to Reeves’ vision. In the meantime, the DCU will go on seeking new heroes and stories with Gunn at the helm.
Though Pattinson’s Batman is still in Elseworlds, there’s a potential for a new Batman arc within the DCU from Gunn. This new Batman story will focus on the relationships between Batman and his son, Damian Wayne. One reached a logical conclusion in this scheme of things, they continue to expand; the same fans should expect greater progression within the DCU as well as Elseworlds.
