Affleck’s Polarizing Ride as The Dark Knight
From his debut in 2016’s “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice,” Ben Affleck’s portrayal of Batman became a topic of hot debate. Although many praised his rendition of the Dark Knight, the film itself remains one of DCEU’s most controversial. It marked the beginning of a rocky journey for the DCEU, ultimately leading to director Zack Snyder’s departure.
Affleck’s Batman experience is unique. He’s the only actor who’s donned the cowl but hasn’t been given a solo film. A combination of personal challenges and discontent with DCEU’s behind-the-scenes decisions, particularly Joss Whedon’s approach to the Justice League reshoots, reportedly influenced his decision to abandon plans for a standalone Batman movie. Despite this, his performances made it abundantly clear that he was a superb choice for the role. However, with DC Universe’s reboot on the horizon, his time as Batman might be drawing to a close, leaving fans with bittersweet memories.
Affleck’s Pinnacle Batman Moment in ‘The Flash’
Although “The Flash” prominently featured Michael Keaton’s version of Batman, courtesy of the film’s multiverse storyline, it’s Affleck’s scene that steals the show. After a riveting action sequence alongside Gal Gadot’s Wonder Woman and Ezra Miller’s The Flash, Affleck’s Bruce Wayne shares a profound moment with Miller’s Barry Allen. The conversation between the two revolves around altering the past to prevent the deaths of their loved ones.
Affleck’s speech, emphasizing the importance of accepting the past and learning from it, is emotionally charged and reflects the overarching theme of the movie. It’s a testament to his acting prowess and stands as one of the most powerful Batman scenes ever filmed.
Controversies Overshadowing Affleck’s Defining Batman Moment
Unfortunately, “The Flash” faced several controversies, casting a shadow over Affleck’s standout moment. Labeled as one of the biggest box office flops, the movie was plagued by various issues even before its release. Ezra Miller, who played Barry Allen, was embroiled in controversies, and the movie’s visuals, especially the CGI, were heavily criticized. Moreover, the decision to include multiverse cameos using deceased actors with less-than-perfect VFX became a major point of contention.
These controversies, combined with the film’s lackluster reception, meant that many overlooked Affleck’s brilliant performance, a scene that showcased the depth and evolution of his version of Batman. It’s a stark reminder of how external factors can often overshadow an actor’s dedication and talent.
