Ben Affleck’s Batman Future and the Controversial Suicide Squad Sequel
The future of the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) remains shrouded in uncertainty, with several projects currently in development. One of the most anticipated questions is whether Ben Affleck will return as Batman for a potential Suicide Squad 2. This article explores the logistics, speculation, and potential implications of a sequel involving Batman, as well as the current state of the DCEU.
Current DCEU Projects
The DCEU is lining up with a multitude of diverse projects, each promising to bring new perspectives to the DC Brand. Here’s a quick update on some of the confirmed and rumored upcoming films:
Aquaman - Already in theaters and receiving positive reviews, Aquaman has set a strong foundation for potential sequels and spin-offs. Shazam - Bringing a fresh take on the Shazam character, Shazam is set to be another hit for the universe, likely sparking interest in potential spin-off films. WW84 (Wonder Woman 1984) - As a critical and commercial success, the sequel has set the stage for a robust franchise. In Development: Batman - The future of the character is slightly unclear, given the oversight of Matt Reeves, but hopes remain high for a successful follow-up. Stand-alone Joker Movie - Warner Bros. plans to tackle the character who is central to the Batman mythos in a solo film. Green Lantern Corps - The return of a beloved character in a potentially epic scale film. Harley Quinn - Similarly, the standalone film promises to expand the universe with a female-led story.An even more intriguing aspect is the two villain teams mentioned in the Justice League post-credits scene: the Justice League and the Injustice League. This introduces a significant challenge of character crossover and storyline continuity.
Controversies Surrounding Suicide Squad 2
Suicide Squad was a poorly received film, both critically and financially. Despite the disappointing box office numbers, it’s ironic that the filmmakers are taking the opportunities to create standalone movies featuring key characters from the film, much like Harley Quinn and Deadshot.
Given the flopped nature of Suicide Squad 2, it could be viewed as a strategic decision to focus on smaller scale productions rather than revisiting the broader ensemble. However, the fanbase is generally supportive of the inclusion of beloved characters, suggesting a robust audience for a reboot or sequel.
Ben Affleck’s Future as Batman
The decision to continue or conclude Batman’s story within the DCEU is a topic of much speculation. With Ben Affleck stepping down after Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice, the search for a new actor is a looming question. However, the recent return of Affleck in The Batman reinvented the character in a fresh and engaging manner, appealing to both critics and fans.
As for Suicide Squad 2, the idea of an ensemble cast suggests that Affleck would need to be present for the project to coalesce around other major characters. Additionally, Affleck’s connection to the Hal Jordan and Green Lantern Corps storyline further complicates the picture. While a standalone Joker film can provide a clean slate and a focus on a single character’s complex psyche, the ambiguity comes with returning to an ensemble and revisiting a largely negative portrayal of Batman.
Fans and Speculations
Fans are closely watching the development of the DCEU and are particularly invested in the future of Batman. At events like Comic Con, official confirmation on the future of Batman and the DCEU are eagerly awaited. Until more information is officially announced, maintaining hope and speculation is a common pastime for fans.
The DCEU is a complex and evolving universe, with numerous opportunities for both fans and creators. The upcoming Suicide Squad 2 could either be a risky endeavor or an innovative step in the right direction, depending on how well it handles its predecessor’s shortcomings.
In conclusion, while Suicide Squad 2 remains a long way from hitting screens, the decision to include or exclude Ben Affleck as Batman continues to be one of the most intriguing questions in the DCEU. Fans and critics alike will be watching closely as the landscape of DC’s cinematic universe continues to unfold.