More big news has come out of the San Diego Comic-Con regarding the DC Cinematic Universe and Ben Affleck’s role in it. According to Deadline, Affleck has met with DC’s Chief Creative Officer, and famed comic writer, Geoff Johns to team up on a solo Batman film. The report states that Affleck and Johns will co-write the script for the film. Apparently they’ve formed quite the partnership and could potentially hand a draft of the script in by summer’s end.
It’s been long speculated that Affleck would write and direct, as well as star of course, in a solo Batman film given his big wins as a director. Affleck won Best Picture for Argo in 2013 and has helmed the well received Gone Baby Gone and The Town. He’s also just signed on to direct the Dennis Lehane adaptation Live By Night so if he does direct the next Batman film, it will not be until he completes Live By Night.
Geoff Johns is no stranger to the Dark Knight either. He’s written both volumes of the original graphic novels Batman: Earth One and has written the character in multiple series, many of which have Batman interacting with other Justice League members. His current run on DC’s flagship Justice League series has been quite strong and has shown a great depiction of the character.
When this Batman film will be released is unknown at this time. Live By Night has a release date of October 7, 2016 so its very likely the new Batman won’t start filming until Affleck has completed editing and press rounds. Previous rumours have stated a 2019 or 2020 release date for the next solo Batman film so it is reasonable to think that is the release window. It would be no surprise either when Warner Bros.’ heavy DC film slate is taken into account; Wonder Woman and Justice League Part One come out in 2017, The Flash and Aquaman in 2018 and Shazam and Justice League Part Two in 2019. WB will either have to move release dates around or cram Batman somewhere between all those films. Either way, if this news proves to be true, it is very exciting for Batfans everywhere.
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Originally published July 10, 2015. Updated April 15, 2018.
