Here are my fifteen top choices to be the new Batman. Some familiar names, but also some new ones. Hopefully it opens discussion a little bit...
They are in order of preference.
1. Michael Fassbender
Fassbender is, in my opinion, one of the most talented and versatile actors of his generation. I would say that he, Christian Bale and Tom Hardy represent the gold standard. I’ve always through that he would make a great Batman. I think he’s a great compromise for an “older” Batman who also has the ability to continue a franchise/trilogy of solo films. It’s complicated by his schedule and the fact that he already has roles in a number of tentpole franchises (X-Men, Prometheus and potentially Assassins Creed), but if they have even a chance of getting Fassbender they should. Not only is he a credible choice, but he’s also proving to have a box office draw. He has previously worked with Snyder on 300.
2.Jon Hamm
Hamm has long been a fan-favourite for the role. He has the exact appearance I’d want an older Bruce Wayne to have. He has a following from Mad Men and is recognised as a talented actor who has yet to have his big break on film. I could see a future Batman franchise flourishing with Hamm as the lead. He is incredibly charismatic and funny and represents a shift away from a Christian Bale-type actor. However, he has a busy schedule next year with the final season of Mad Men and has been luke-warm to the prospect of being in a comic book film in the past. He is undoubtedly a great choice though, having worked with Snyder before into the bargain. If he’s interested, Snyder/WB should look at adjusting the shooting schedule to accommodate him. It would be well worth it.
3. Ryan Gosling
A younger actor, but a favourite for the role for a reason. It’s difficult to point to a role that Gosling has done that indicates he could pull off Batman, but that’s part of the reason he’s a great choice. Gosling is an incredibly talented actor, who is also gaining a lot of traction and popularity. He would lend credibility to Batman vs Superman, and combined with Cavill would ensure a sizable female audience. Many franchises have tried to snap-up Gosling but none have been successful. He’s at the point in his career where he needs a franchise vehicle. WB should at least try.
4. Ben Affleck
I’ve always had somewhat mixed feelings about Ben Affleck as an actor. He’s given some truly woeful performances, often due to poor direction or poor role choice. However, he’s also given some fine performances and is making a comeback (mostly due to his directorial efforts) that most declining actors could only dream of. Something occurred to me when making this list: Ben Affleck can now be considered for an “older” Batman! Something which most people would know about Affleck is that when he is direction himself, he can act. The other thing which occurred to me is that if Ben Affleck played Batman in Batman vs Superman, and was given some creative say, then the next director of the Batman solo films is involved in the project. Affleck has a great relationship with WB and should definitely be considered.
5. Jake Gyllenhaal
He was the second choice for Batman Begins, and while majority think that he is too “baby-faced” to be Batman, I think he has matured enough physically to be an imposing Batman. If he was Nolan’s second choice, do I really need to say more?
6. Guy Pearce
Guy Pearce is an extraordinary talent who has just never got the recognition he deserves. He’s a true chameleon and while I have been iffy on him in the past, I think an “older” Batman is the perfect time to take a look at Pearce. Pearce deserves his “big role”.
7. Bradley Cooper
I’ve made my thoughts on Bradley Cooper pretty clear in the past. I revoke all previous statements I have made about him. This guy can act and should definitely get at least a look in for the role. Apparently, he’s Green Lantern audition was very Batman-esque…
8. Luke Evans
Something about Luke Evans as Batman really intrigues me. He is an up and coming actor, currently working on The Hobbit with WB. He has worked previously with Henry Cavill on The Immortals. His charisma and charm work well with his gruffer exterior to create something that surprisingly reminds me of Bruce Wayne. I get a good vibe from him.
9. Patrick Wilson
Patrick Wilson is a really talented and underrated actor. He has previously worked with Snyder on Watchmen where he played the Batman-inspired Owl Man. I really think he’s a great actor, but part of me wonders if he just looked too nice.
10. Sam Worthington
I put Sam down this far on the list because I almost feel that he is too obvious. I think he’d be a great, albeit predictable choice. Should be looked at, although I feel there are better and more Bruce Wayne-like choices out there.