With Ben Affleck bailing on directing Batman, WB is scrambling to fill the director’s chair as they originally wanted the movie to film soon for a 2018 release.
Ben Affleck previously released a statement regarding leaving directing Batman: “There are certain characters who hold a special place in the hearts of millions. Performing this role demands focus, passion and the very best performance I can give. It has become clear that I cannot do both jobs to the level they require. Together with the studio, I have decided to find a partner in a director who will collaborate with me on this massive film. I am still in this, and we are making it, but we are currently looking for a director. I remain extremely committed to this project, and look forward to bringing this to life for fans around the world.”
So with Ben Affleck out, the next name that has surfaced is War for the Planet of the Apes helmer Matt Reeves, with reports stating he is in early talks.
Now it’s learned if Matt Reeves doesn’t want to direct Batman that WB is eyeing both Ridley Scott and Don’t Breathe director Fede Alvarez. Years ago I was also told WB was eyeing Ridley Scott to direct the Will Beall version of Justice League.
Ridley Scott would be an interesting choice to direct Batman, though he did just recently f-bomb Batman vs. Superman and doesn’t seem to keen on comic book movies in general:
“Superhero movies are not my kind of thing – that’s why I’ve never really done one,” Ridley Scott said, reports Digital Spy. “[I’ve been asked] several times, but I can’t believe in the thin, gossamer tight-rope of the non-reality of the situation of the superhero.
“I’ve done that kind of movie – Blade Runner really is a comic strip when you think about it, it’s a dark story told in an unreal world,” Scott said. “You could almost put Batman or Superman in that world, that atmosphere, except I’d have a f**king good story, as opposed to no story!”
