With Robert Pattinson (“Twilight”) set to play Batman in the next film in the franchise, I thought I would take a look at the previous actors that had the role. I’m only including actors who played Batman in films that were both live-action and had a theatrical release as otherwise, there is just too much to cover.
- Ben Affleck – Batman v Superman: Dawn Of Justice, Suicide Squad and Justice League
While his performance did grow on me a little by the time I saw “Justice League”, there is no denying that I think Ben Affleck (“DareDevil”) has been the weakest Batman to date. His attempt to make the character gritty just made him seem miserable. Also, the glowing eyes on the costume when he fights Superman looks awful. It’s amazing to think he got to play Batman three times but never in one that was solely a Batman flick.
- Val Kilmer – Batman Forever
Often overlooked, Val Kilmer (“Top Gun”) certainly didn’t give a bad performance as the Caped Crusader. However, it’s an underwhelming performance considering the actor has proved to be quite talented in some of his other films. He comes across as more awkward than anything else in the cape and cowl.
- George Clooney – Batman & Robin
George Clooney (“Three Kings”) was great as Bruce Wayne but he’s no Batman. The smug rich guy persona of Wayne is hardly acting for Clooney. He arguably had the hardest material to work with due to all the goofy lines in “Batman & Robin” but he could have done a lot better.
- Christian Bale – Batman Begins, The Dark Knight and The Dark Knight Rises
His growly voice still warrants ridicule but I think overall, Christian Bale (“Equilibrium”) did a fine job. Watching these films, you wouldn’t know that Bale is actually British as his accent is so good. He managed to make Batman dark again after the light-hearted portrayal given by Clooney.
- Adam West – Batman: The Movie
People often forget about Adam West as Batman. The 60s “Batman” tv series and film were clearly more outrightly comedic than anything that came after it but that’s part of the charm. West plays the role with the same commitment that William Shatner plays Captain Kirk in “Star Trek”. West is thoroughly entertaining to watch.
- Michael Keaton – Batman and Batman Returns
Michael Keaton (“Beetlejuice”) still is the definitive Batman for many people. Capturing the tormented soul of the crimefighter and giving us that intimidating whisper, Keaton nailed the role. It’s a shame he only got to play him twice.