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Ben Affleck’s tenure as the Caped Crusader was anything but smooth sailing. Fans were divided when his casting was first announced, and Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016) received its fair share of backlash. But in hindsight, Affleck’s performance as Bruce Wayne has earned a reputation as one of the standout portrayals of Gotham’s Dark Knight.
Drawing inspiration from Frank Miller’s iconic graphic novel “The Dark Knight Returns” (1986), Affleck’s Batman brought a grittier, more brutal approach to the character. This muscle-bound, unforgiving vigilante didn’t hesitate to take down his enemies with lethal efficiency, even branding criminals with a searing Bat-logo. He wasn’t just Batman; he was a force of nature.
Credit: DC / Warner Bros.
In stark contrast to Christian Bale’s moral and restrained portrayal in The Dark Knight trilogy, Affleck’s version of the Bat symbolized a darker, sadder Gotham. He wasn’t afraid to break the rules—or bones.
Affleck’s Batman first appeared in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice and returned for four more films, including Suicide Squad (2016), Justice League (2017), Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021), and finally, The Flash (2023). His final appearance marked the end of his time under the cowl, as DC Studios moves toward a fresh start with The Brave and the Bold.
Who will play the next Bruce Wayne? That remains to be seen. For now, Affleck’s Dark Knight holds a unique place in the Batman legacy.
Credit: DC / Warner Bros.
Related: Michael Keaton’s Batman Returns in New DC Project as Robert Pattinson’s Sequel is Shelved
Enter Absolute Batman
However, while Ben Affleck’s reign as Batman is over, the DC Universe continues to expand its Multiverse. The newest addition? DC Comics’ “Absolute Batman” series. This “brave and bold” reimagining of Bruce Wayne flips the Bat-lore on its head.
In “Absolute Batman”, Bruce isn’t a billionaire playboy. Instead, he hails from Crime Alley, one of Gotham’s most notorious neighborhoods. Gone are the days of a sprawling mansion and Alfred’s witty one-liners; this Bruce Wayne grew up without wealth, privilege, or even his iconic Batcave.
Instead of being a polished crime-fighting machine, this Bruce is a gritty drifter who picks up engineering jobs around the city to better understand Gotham’s inner workings. And his allies? A colorful cast of characters, including Marlon Wayans as Killer Croc, childhood friends Oswald Cobblepot (The Penguin) and Selina Kyle (Catwoman), and an Alfred Pennyworth who’s now a hardened mercenary hunting the Batman.
Credit: DC Comics
Brave and Bold
Don’t worry; Bruce is still Batman. This version boasts a black-and-grey suit that pays homage to the classic design, complete with a bold new Bat-logo that doubles as a detachable ax blade. Yes, you read that right—this Batman’s chest emblem is as functional as it is stylish.
The Absolute Universe doesn’t stop with Bruce Wayne. “Absolute Superman” and “Absolute Wonder Woman” have already joined the lineup, with “Absolute Flash”, “Absolute Green Lantern””, and Absolute Martian Manhunter” set to debut soon.
Credit: DC Comics
Related: Official ‘Batman’ (1989) Sequel With “De-Aged” Michael Keaton Reveals Plot Synopsis
What’s Next for Gotham?
As DC Studios gears up for The Brave and the Bold in its cinematic reboot, and with Absolute Batman shaking up the comic world, it’s safe to say the legacy of the Caped Crusader is evolving once again.
Whether you prefer the grizzled brutality of Batfleck, the classic charm of Keaton, or the daring new direction of Absolute Batman, there’s never been a better time to be a Batman fan.
“Absolute Batman #1” “Absolute Superman #1” and “Absolute Wonder Woman #1” are on sale now. “Absolute Flash,” “Absolute Green Lantern,” and “Absolute Martian Manhunter” are set to follow in March.
Have you read “Absolute Batman” #1 yet? Let us know what you think in the comments!
