While ‘The Batman’ stand-alone movie in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) is still almost two years down the road, there have been previous reports saying that Ben Affleck will be directing the movie.
However, latest reports have it that the actor has decided to back off from the directorial position for “The Batman” movie and his decision apparently was mutually agreed upon with producers Warner Bros.
It should be noted that Ben Affleck still remains as producer of “The Batman,” not to mention an actor too.
According to sources in the production of the movie, Affleck and Warner Bros finally agreed on how to best make the film possible, reports Variety.
Cannot do two tough jobs at the same time
In an official statement, Affleck said that there are certain characters who hold a special place in the hearts of millions.
He explained that performing the role of the Dark Knight demands focus, passion, and the very best performance that he can give, adding that it has become clear that he cannot do both jobs to the level they require.
Affleck also pointed out that together with the studio, he has decided to find a partner in a director who will collaborate with him on the massive film.
He pointed out also that he is still in “The Batman,” and confirm that they are indeed making the movie. Affleck also disclosed that they are currently looking for a director.
The actor also said that he remains extremely committed to the project, and look forward to bringing the character again to life for fans around the world.
Nothing to do with ‘Live by Night’
Sources say Affleck’s decision was solely made based on what’s best for the project and had nothing to do with the recent disappointment of the actor in his most recent directing job, “Live by Night.”
Affleck and Warner Bros have now begun searching for a new director. Sources say there is a shortlist and that “War for the Planet of the Apes” director Matt Reeves is among those on the list.
Warner Bros corroborated the statement of Ben Affleck when the studio also released its official statement shortly.
The company said that it fully supports Ben Affleck’s decision and remains committed to working with the actor to bring a standalone “Batman” to life.
Affleck has already completed work as the Caped Crusader in “Justice League Part 1” which would be hitting theaters on November 17 this year.
The actor was gearing to go into preparation on the solo “The Batman” movie this coming summer. He actually co-wrote the script with Geoff Johns.
There had been previous rumblings that Affleck was considering not directing the film during the past month, but in recent weeks sources say the multi-hyphenated actor came to the decision that it was best to let the directing job go and focus on playing the part.
Affleck made his debut as the Dark Knight for the studio last summer in “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice,” and he had been attached to write and direct the Batman stand-alone movie for about a year.
In fact, he attended ComicCon last summer with his fellow DC Extended Universe directors, like “Wonder Woman’s” Patty Jenkins, “Justice League’s” Zack Snyder, and Rick Famuyiwa, who this past fall also stepped away from directing “The Flash,” reports Fox News.
Warner Bros and Ben Affleck have had a long-standing relationship. In August last year, Affleck made a cameo as Batman/Bruce Wayne in “Suicide Squad,” starred in “The Accountant,” and wrote, directed and starred in the period drama “Live by Night.”
In a recent interview, Affleck said that he was taking his time with the script for “The Batman,” which he described as an exhilarating challenge, and is like jumping out of an airplane.