BATFLECK'S UNIVERSE

There is at least one Batman solo movie in the works, hopefully more as to cover his massive rogues gallery. Sure, Ben Affleck will bring the goddamn Batman to the upcoming "Suicide Squad", but will that be the only interaction we will see between Bats and The Joker, Harley Quinn, and even Killer Croc? Some may not want another Batman V Joker film, but I am not one of them. Especially given that there is also a Harley Quinn to add to the mix this time around via Margot Robbie. But, I would also like to see more, and more characters involved as well. Both returning and debuting. And they would be...

Catwoman
Although in every franchise, she is as iconic as Batman and The Joker. It would be nice to see another incarnation of her nine lives. Older Batman with Affleck, so perhaps Angelina Jolie or Kate Beckinsale could fill the role purrrrrr-fectly. Sorry.

Bane
He got his redemption in "The Dark Knight Rises", but lets see an even closer rendition. Yes, I want to see size changing when he injects the venom, able to kick butt, and the mask.

Mr. Freeze
Speaking of redemption, although Arnold had the look, his over use of one liners in typical Arnold fashion ruined the role. Let's see what Victor Fries is like in Batfleck's world. The question is who would fit the part. I vote for Hugo Weaving.

The Riddler
I actually like Jim Carrey's version. It was an only slightly dark spin on Frank Gorshin's in the 1960's. After seeing him in "Number 23", I would consider Carrey for the role if he goes that dark with the character. I can see the appeal of N.P.H. but I think it could be too much like Jim with the overacting. Who? I guess that is the ultimate riddle with this one. I say Johnny Depp.

Hugo Strange
Probably not on everyone's list, mine either until I was trying to fit Bryan Cranston into this universe. He wasn't cast as Lex Luthor, so why not cast him as one of Batman's intellectual counterparts?

Two-Face
It would be nice to see this character done well in both appearance and performance. Tommy Lee had a pretty good look, Aaron Eckhart was a nice realistic look. But, both lacked substance as a character. How about a spot on look, with a actor showing two people at odds within one man's mind? Perhaps a role Leonardo Dicaprio could pull off masterfully.

Man-Bat
Computer graphics and whatnot are pretty top of the line nowadays, why not show us a live action Man-Bat? Even if for a small part of a bigger story. Casting isn't all that important to me here, as again the CGI is what I would be looking at.

Killer Croc
I know that he is in the "Suicide Squad", but how about more of a focus while within a Batman movie? Of course, after August 5th I may change my mind of this, but until then.

I would have included characters like Robin or Batgirl, but I think that those may be included given Robin's suit appearing in "Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice". Add its "condition" I would say that there is a story to tell there. It is almost a given that Alfred will be appearing, and after seeing the shape that J.K. Simmons got into for his role of Commissioner Gordon in "Justice League", I would say he is on the list for sure as well. I guess we will find out in the years to come...DC finally has a movieverse going on and it is still all in wait and see mode.

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BATFLECK SET FOR SOLO VENTURE

It isn't in the "news" category, as it was expected as Ben Affleck had signed on for multiple films. To star and direct. For some, the initial thought might have been him involved with only Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice, and the "Justice League" follow-ups. It was just hard to imagine DC Comics and WB finally creating and expanding a movieverse, and not including the goddamn Batman.

Now that it is almost guaranteed (remember, Batman V Superman could bomb changing things drastically) we can begin to wonder how things will be approached. Many question immediately come to mind, and am sure that more will arise as things progress.

First question is of course, which Batman will we be seeing? The "older" version we are set to see in "Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice"? Or will Batfleck go sans grey and we see a younger Batman in Gotham? Preferably, would like to see a younger version defeating a variety of villains.

Which quickly brings us to the next question, will we see The Joker (Jared Leto) and Harley Quinn (Margot Robbie) making appearances? We do know that Batman will make an appearance in "Suicide Squad" where Mr. J and Harley will be starring alongside other Batman foes like Killer Croc (Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje) and Deadshot (Will Smith). A new Batman, a new Joker, and now three new characters shows there is willingness to test new ground. Bane got his redemption with "The Dark Knight Rises", perhaps now Mr. Freeze can as well.

And then there is the questions of co-stars on the hero side of things. Will we see any version of Robin appear in this? And if there were a Robin, which on would it be? Dick Grayson, Jason Todd, Tim Drake, or Damian Wayne? Or would it be a female like Carrie Kelley? Speaking of females, would Batgirl make an appearance, and of course which one? Would Barbara Gordon take on the mantle, or would she be Oracle, or would she even appear at all? And what of Jim Gordon, as there are rumors that he is "dead" in "Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice", will he appear in a solo Batman film? Who would play him? since we didn't get him as Lex Luthor, perhaps Brian Cranston could fill the void.

There of course will be two new questions for every one that gets answered as time goes on. This are simply what immedietly comes to mind. Can't wait to see it all play out....here's hoping "Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice" doesn't suck.


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THE JOKER NOT GETTING MAD LOVE?

If not for the internet, we wouldn't get to see anything beyond what would be shown on Entertainment Tonight (or something like that). But then, if not for the internet we wouldn't be exposed to so much hate. Unjustified most of the time. There was the Batfleck casting drama, Wonder Woman not being "big enough" type bullshlacka, and this time around even a clown can't get no love.

That's right, the recently revealed photo of Jared Leto as The Joker made its rounds across the web. While some have learned to take a "wait and see" approach to these things, the majority was already predicting failure for "Suicide Squad". That is usually the case though. People scream for change, yet shun new things (approaches).
Is Jared Leto giving us a version of The Joker that is traditional in the visual sense? No, even though his hair and figure is the closes there has been to the comic books version(s). His teeth? It actually makes sense. How many times has Batman knocked out Mr. J's teeth? One would be safe to assume that The Joker would want to "change them up" every now and again. Then there is the ink job. That is slightly understandable, but at the same time it is something "fresh". And The Joker would be one who may be too vain to get tattoos, but at the same time, he is narcissistic enough to get his "own" tattoos on himself. I wouldn't be shocked if we were to see a Batman logo inked on his back. It would actually "make sense" given his obsession with The Dark Knight.
And although there are still those who disliked Heath Ledger's rendition of The Joker, there were a massive amount of those who had to "eat crow" afterword. From his casting,  to how appeared in promo shots. Heath garnered the same amount of negativity. Sadly he wasn't alive to receive the Oscar, which he would've won regardless.

The funny thing is, while everyone argues over who was the better Joker, and where Leto's rendition will place him (even though we know nothing beyond one picture. one.) among them. Every incarnation of The Joker, even the apparent punk styling and likely "attitude", is actually a piece of who The Joker is. He's a variety of things, and is ever evolving. Just throwing that out there, even though I am sure many will rip both this article and Leto's Joker aha

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ROCK IS BLACK ADAM, BUT WHO IS SHAZAM?

It was a casting that was actually thought of years ago, when Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson was still a full-time wrestler and a rookie in the movie business. But, we now have The Rock playing the part of Black Adam in the future Shazam (Captain Marvel for those still unwilling to call him by his new name) movie that will be a part of DC Comics movieverse. So, now we are left with the question, who's going to play Shazam?

Before it became official, The Rock did give a clue as to who he was playing by saying "Shazam" (which is also the word used by both Adam and Shazam to summon their powers). With most of us knowing that likely meant he was playing Black Adam, given his personality and acting ability The Rock would've also made a great Shazam as well. At first, I was thinking it would have to be an actor with big muscles and all of that, but then remembered what Zack Snyder has done with Superman (Henry Cavill), Batman (Ben Affleck), and Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot) and how it can really be any actor who could. They not be able to bulk up to the size of The Rock (who can also tone down), but they can simply bulk up and rely of their acting ability.

The person would have to be able to almost portray a man-child, as Shazam is still a kid named Billy Baston using magic to basically look like Superman (Fun fact: Captain Marvel was out selling Superman at one point in the golden days of comics). They also should have a slight youthfulness to their appearance. Top of my head there is only one name that comes to mind. Someone who I didn't think I would ever want, nor think should belong in a comic book movie. Although he can be quite funny at times in comedies, he tends to be the preference of our wives, girlfriends, and partners. That being Channing Tatum. He almost seems perfect for the role. He can add that needed immaturity to the role, he has that youthful look I referenced. And he is capable to add the required muscle mass as well. Over time I am sure more names could pop into my head, but for now this is who I would go with. If anything, he could add those "Twilight Numbers" (young women audiences) to the box office. Plus, remember what the late Heath Ledger did with the role of The Joker in The Dark Knight. Who's to say Tatum couldn't make this epic? Stay Nerdy!

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STAN'S THE MAN, BUT WEST IS BEST

Okay, slightly misleading title, as they are different people who have different connections to the comic book and film industries, and of course the obvious Marvel Vs DC part of things. Stan Lee creator of Spider-Man and other Marvel icons, Adam West forever known as Bruce Wayne/Batman in the campy hit series "Batman" back in the 1960's. Perhaps it makes more sense to have Stan make cameos in the films of characters he's been known to have created or worked on, as they are in some cases his "babies". And if he were still alive today, would be nice to think that Batman creator Bob Kane would have gone the same route and made small appearances within Nolan's trilogy (although likely not as comedic as Stan's spots have been).

Why not Adam West then? We all have our preferences as to who is the best Dark Knight, but can anyone argue who is truly the most iconic of the small group? Was even the only Batman to have joined other members of the League on television shows, and of course voiced Batman in the final two seasons of Super Friends. Ben Affleck is about to become the second in the upcoming sequel to the Man Of Steel, but West was first. Add that the 60's Batman series about to finally be released in boxsets, West's version of the Caped Crusader will become fresh for the noobs and act as a refresher the memories of those who can't help but picture 60's Batman every time they see Mayor West on Family Guy. It wouldn't need to be campy, he wouldn't even really need any lines like George Lucas did with himself in Star Wars Episode III: Revenge Of The Sith.

With Wonder Woman being played by Gal Gadot, it would also be nice to see the almost original but definitely THE Wonder Woman, Lynda Carter make a cameo appearance at the least. Smallville had cameos of almost anyone from previous versions of DC Comics live-action films and shows, including Carter. Even the upcoming "Arrow" spin-off "The Flash" is going to have John Wesley Shipp, the actor who played the scarlet speedster in the 1990's tv show based on the character. Why not have a glance of Adam West and Lynda Carter together perhaps sightseeing or having dinner together as some incident or action sequence begins and we see them looking up. Anything, really. Just them for now as well. If we allow Michael Keaton then we may open the door for Kilmer or Clooney, and they need to be forgotten. I would think about Nicholson, but he may demand a bigger role.

Sure, most may prefer that the cameo spots go to creators like Stan Lee, but nobody has put themselves out there so much that they are just as known as the characters they create. His is Stan "The Man" after all.

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CASTING BATFLECK'S GOTHAM CITY (Ver 1.0)

Likely way too early to really think of most of these, for all we know the number of movies Ben Affleck signed on for may have been only for "Justice League/Man Of Steel" films. The hater could end up being proven right and we witness Batfleck bomb. Don't think that it will, but there is that chance. Also, hard to tell what direction they would take. Batman may be a grizzled vet within the follow-up, but that doesn't necessarily mean that the solo Bat-flicks would show Batman in that light, Affleck could pull off a younger version of the character. But, for this casting we'll assume it is the older Batman with a mix of cast mates that will range in age, new takes on some of these characters could make them work in a setting where they are younger than Batman. I am sure that either there will be references in the follow-up to "Man Of Steel" or possibly even an appearance of a Bat-character that will give us more of a clue, but with 2 years of wait time, things like this are needed to fill the time. Also, as much as I would like to see stars from Marvel's "Avengers" universe, I don't see them working for the competition. Although Star Wars and Star Trek are currently being directed by the same person, the DC-Marvel competition goes beyond the films into their core, comic books (ie, ripple effect from a successful movie, etc). And that being said, I don't see Johnny Depp being apart of this with him somewhat being a "Disney" guy with most of his blockbusters and Disney owns Marvel. But we can still wish though, as I am on board with him being apart of this.

We already know Batman/Bruce Wayne is Ben Affleck, and that Jeremy Irons will be his trusty butler and friend, Alfred Pennyworth. Here is a current list of characters who I think should appear and who should play them in future solo Batman movies...

James Gordon (Bryan Cranston)

Like Alfred, Jim Gordon is almost an expected character. After Gary Oldman's rendition in the Chris Nolan trilogy, that isn't a bad thing. If Batman is a grizzled veteran, then what would the Commissioner be? Almost tempted to want Oldman to evolve his character even further, but perhaps Cranston can take this role to a new level. We didn't get him as "Lex Luthor" and that is okay, now he's available for this role. Any doubt in this actors abilities should've been obliterated when "Malcom's dad" became "Walter White". If you haven't seen the hit series "Breaking Bad" yet? Get help removing the rock you're under and WATCH THAT SERIES! You'll thank me and everyone who ever suggested it. Plus, as we've seen, he passes the mustache test, which is almost Gordon's cape and cowl.

Catwoman (Lauren Cohan)

Like many, I have had my own ideas for movies and casting. I had Ray Stevenson as Batman/Bruce Wayne after seeing him in "Punisher: War Zone", and as Catwoman, I had Angelina Jolie. With Affleck's version being what is supposidly being, be almost perfect for Jolie to crack the whip, but perhaps too obvious and expensive. But, watching Lauren in "The Walking Dead" and seeing her in previous roles, she could possibly make it a role of a life time given the right story of course, but seems to have what it would take to play Selina Kyle aka Catwoman. Younger yes, but that could somewhat add to the Bat and Cat dynamic.

The Joker (Neil Patrick Harris)

I didn't blame Chris Nolan for saying that there wouldn't be another Joker in his universe. The respect for the late Heath Ledger of course, but then, who would you possibly get? One of the more difficult roles to cast even in a reboot scenario. Downey Jr would've made a possible good choice, but don't see Iron Man jumping sides. But, The Joker is going to be all anyone talks about as soon as it is mentioned that we will be seeing a member of Batman's rogues gallery.NPH is a quick top of my head choice, but the more I think about it, why not? He has talent and showmanship, both needed for Mr. J. What else could he show us with a darker more twisted scenario?

Harley Quinn (Emma Stone)

The last actress Brittany Murphy would have been the perfect casting for this role in my opinion. Then I realized that "The Amazing Spider-Man" although a Marvel character, it is a FOX movie, not apart of the "Avengers" universe, leaving Emma Stone available to try this role on for size. Similar to the Catwoman role, one may think of this as being too young, but like the feline, this would add to the dynamic of Harley's relationship with both her puddin' The Joker and B-Man, Batman. Plus Emma is pretty talented and could also make this a role of a lifetime.

The Riddler (Jim Parsons)

Didn't dawn on me until I saw him host "SNL" and he was doing a deeper voice, and portraying a serial killer in some skits. I was on Team NPH (Neil Patrick Harris) for the spot, but I think Jim Parsons could possibly do very well portraying The Riddler. Almost a darker, and only very slightly more masculine version of "Sheldon" on "The Big Bang Theory". Again tempted to reuse Jim Carrey, didn't do too bad and with a better movie and more experience now under his belt could truly own it, but, don't see him in a comic book movie with any violence after "bailing" on promoting "Kick-Ass 2" (right to his opinion, as are we).

The Penguin (Mike Myers)

Probably not many out there who would agree, and understandably would've preferred the late Philip Seymour Hoffman, but I am seeing a Penguin similar to that in the "Batman: Arkham" video game franchise, possibly a bit older. Myers being a character actor, which have comedy roles mainly, but that tends to happen to comedians. This could make for a great opportunity for "Austin Powers" to break-out big time in a serious role. With the assistance of prosthetic and make-up of course, but has the stature (compared to a taller Batfleck) and the ability in character acting to pull this off with voices and character traits and ticks.

Killer Croc (Kevin Grevioux)

For those unaware, Kevin is an actor and writer (screen and comic). Most notably, co-wrote and portrayed the Lycan named Raze in the "Underworld" movie franchise. I will admit, not my initial choice, that being the late Michael Clark Duncan, but a pretty good second choice. The character of Waylon Jones aka Killer Croc I would prefer a route similar to the graphic novel "Joker" where he was more human than lizard like other renditions have him keeping with the realism. Simply a very large cannibal who has a skin condition that looks like scales, with the right writing and acting, this would be scary enough without risking "cheesy" status or immediate "Lizard" in "The Amazing Spider-Man" films..

Nightwing (Norman Reedus)

Too much of a "commercial" choice with the success of his character in "The Walking Dead", but Marvel got "Merle", DC should get "Daryl". Although mostly rumors, but heard that this character may at least be referenced within the upcoming "Man Of Steel" follow-up. If Batman is to be a grizzled vet' what would Nightwing be? Maybe more suited for Red Hood/Jason Todd, but a battle hardened Richard Grayson may be something similar to what is Reedus' wheelhouse. He's shown he can deliver, and it will definitely help convince the non-comic fan spouses to let you choose the movie. And between "Daryl Dixon" and anything "Twilight", we're taking Norman every time.


Obviously this list will evolve other time, as I am sure all of yours will as well. And didn't approach this as an ensemble cast approach, but more of a character by character, so don't look at it as an over-commercialized casting. There are many, many more characters that I would like to see appear in a Batfleck "Gotham City", I would like to see a new "Two-Face", and would like to see "Mr. Freeze" and "Poison Ivy" get their redemption roles like we witnessed with "Bane" in the last installment in Nolan's Batman trilogy, who I would also like to see return (seen two awesome fan-art versions of a mask choice). List goes on, and will likely be covered in the future as we learn more about the plans for Ben Affleck's "Batman". Only time will tell. At least we have CW's "Arrow" and upcoming "The Flash" to tide us over until then. Speaking of television's "The Flash" check out the first look at his costume (HERE)

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DC MOVIE UNIVERSE

With the recent announcement (and uproar) of the casting of Jesse Eisenberg as Lex Luthor, and Jeremy Irons as Alfred Pennyworth, the DC Movie Universe has expanded again. Looking at the size of the cast, it is hard to argue with the rumor that the delay in production and pushed back premiere is due to them filming more than one film, however there is the fact that apparently even a small delay of a week or two would push the opening back about 10 months. However, being a fan of how they shot the Lord Of The Rings trilogy, I am hoping there's more than one film being made in succession. Otherwise, there are a lot of stars and a lot of story to cover in a two hour time frame. We shall see.

Superman/Kal El/Clark Kent (Henry Cavill)

Star of the first installment, Cavill dawns the "S" once again. With all the additions, hard not to ask how much of Superman's story will be pushed to the back.

Lois Lane (Amy Adams)

Also returning is Amy Adams as Lois Lane. Like Superman, it will be interesting to see how the other characters being added will not just effect her story, but the story between Lois Lane and Superman/Clark Kent.

Perry White (Laurence Fishburne)

His role in "Man Of Steel" (2013) was smaller, but important to showing the reaction of the city during the attack by Zod and company. I see possibly a smaller role in upcoming movies that are not Superman focused.

Martha Kent (Dianne Lane)

Ma Kent is coming back too. Her role in "Man Of Steel" (2013) was as expected, with Dianne giving a great motherly performance (I liked the scene at school with a little CK). Perhaps we'll see more interaction between her and Lois this time around.

Batman/Bruce Wayne (Ben Affleck)

The casting that caused the worlds largest bowel movement amongst a large section of Bat-Fans not wanting to take the wait and see approach. After all is said and done, one side will be eating words. Hopefully the supporters are the ones proven right this time around. Until then we can all speculate what the Bat-Suit will look like. Can't see a "tights" style as that was technically already done by Adam West in the 60's. Hoping for an Arkham Origins video game style personally.

Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot)

Another casting that had mixed reviews, most of which was directed at her size. But, if anyone has watched Zach Snyder's past films, should have zero worries on that subject. For the first time since Lynda Carter did in the mid 1970's, Wonder Woman is coming to us in live action form and it's about time! And here's hoping for a solo spin-off film if all goes well. Very curious as to what her wardrobe will look like. Classic style? Pants? Xena-like? A brand new, unique take on something?

Lex Luthor (Jesse Eisenberg)

With nothing but rumors and speculation since the casting of Batman and Wonder Woman, and with heavy assumptions on who should and will play Lex Luthor, with names like Bryan Cranston, Mark Strong, among others being passed around. The part was finally cast, and like those who proceeded him, Jessee Eisenberg has received some negative feed back. Also like the others, talented enough for most of us to take a wait and see approach.

Alfred Pennyworth (Jeremy Irons)

Along with Lex, it was announced that the role of Batman/Bruce Wayne's closest confidant Alfred Pennyworth has been cast. Haven't read nor heard anything negative feedback on this one, which is far from surprising. The world of the new Batman has improved even more.

It's hard to say exactly which characters will be added to this ever growing and ever talented cast. "Arrow" tv star Stephen Amell claims that the "Arrow" universe may be connected to this one. Of course, Marvel is using Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. as part of their cinematic universe, so it's not far fetched. It would mean we know who Green Arrow, Arsenal, among others are, and with The Flash just finishing up his debut on the show, and set to get his own, we would know who the fourth member of Justice League is (possible title for M.O.S. follow-up). Plus, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson is set to possibly join this universe also. One thing is for sure, DC Comics is at least making an effort to bring us their universe, personally liking what they are giving.

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AFFLECK CAST AS BATMAN. WORLD ENDS!

Okay, maybe the world hasn't literally ended, but a lot of fellow Bat-Fans out there sure have been acting as though it has. I've heard about death threats (even to those not even connected to the movie) and a petition for the President of the USA to step in and stop this casting. Seriously stupid stuff, that in all honesty, makes it kind of embarrassing to be a fan. I openly admit, my initial reaction was "F*ck!". For me it had absolutely nothing to do with Affleck or his ability to act or make a good movie. Daredevil wasn't the best movie, but I enjoyed it (minus Afflecks hair aha). So much, that I kind of yearned for him to reprise his role in the Elektra spin-off/sequel. My issue with this casting, was that I haven't heard or seen any movies where Ben had "the voice" to play Batman. A combination of his Boston accent and higher toned voice makes it hard for me to see him as The Dark Knight. Now I am not saying everyone has to be like Christian Bale and his grovelling attempt, however a different style of voice work is essential while dawning the cape and cowl. Biggest issue with George Clooney's attempt at being the Batman was that with or without the mask, you knew Bruce Wayne and Batman were the same person.

Now I am sure some of you are thinking, "Oh, working on his voice is easy." and initially you aren't wrong, however, it isn't as easy as you think and takes a lot of dedication. Not only that, there is always the risk of it being cheesy or over the top (Bale went overboard at times).

Again, this is the only thing that worries me. It was the only thing that worried me about Heath playing The Joker in The Dark Knight. I had never heard/seen him without the accent (Aussie I think). And well, clearly, those worries were put to sleep very quickly. And speaking of Heath Ledger as Mr. J, I remember the proverbial crap hitting the fan over that casting choice as well, I dunno, do you think that an Oscar win and the Box-Office numbers made those doubters eat their words? I believe so. And although I was too young to really hear about them, but I do remember my Dad telling me about how nobody wanted Michael Keaton as Batman back in the '89 Tim Burton movie, and I know I am not the only one who thinks of the first two of that franchise as being the best of them.

 So, the next 2 years shall be spent defending this movie and its casting choices. Hopefully this movie is as awesome as I am expecting it to be. Absolutely loved Man Of Steel, and adding my all-time favorite character to that mix, cannot be a bad thing....I hope ahaha Naw, total confidence in Zack Synder and the cast of this movie. Till then if your going to "question" anything about this movie, then let it be about things like "With Affleck only being 41, what direction are they taking after teasing this will be similar to Frank Miller's The Dark Knight Returns", or "When are they announcing Brian Cranston as Lex Luthor?" Okay that last one is purely rumor at the moment, but my choice for the role (if it is even part of the upcoming movie).

Stay nerdy!