Ben Affleck No Longer Directing THE BATMAN, Matt Reeves in Running to Replace Him
Ben Affleck said that if he couldn't put together a story and script for The Batman that he was happy with he wouldn't direct the movie. Well, he's just dropped out of the film and will no longer direct. He's still attached to star in the film and produce it, though. In a statement to Variety, Affleck said:
“There are certain characters who hold a special place in the hearts of millions. Performing this role demands focus, passion and the very best performance I can give. It has become clear that I cannot do both jobs to the level they require. Together with the studio, I have decided to find a partner in a director who will collaborate with me on this massive film. I am still in this, and we are making it, but we are currently looking for a director. I remain extremely committed to this project, and look forward to bringing this to life for fans around the world.”
This news was followed by a tweet from Variety's Justin Kroll who said that Rise of the Planet of the Apes and Cloverfield director Matt Reeves is "high on the list of directors they are looking at." There's no confirmation of this and no deal has been made. As of right now, he's just a name on a list, but he's a solid director that I wouldn't mind seeing make a Batman movie. No other names on this list were offered.
There's no other information given as to why Affleck dropped out, but according to inside sources, the "decision was solely made based on what’s best for the project and had nothing to do with the recent disappointment of Affleck’s recent directing job Live by Night." I thought Live By Night was a solid film, but it bombed at the box office because, in my opinion, it wasn't marketed very well.
Regardless of that, Affleck is out as the director of The Batman, and someone else is going to come on board to replace him. I'm kinda bummed out by this news because Affleck is a talented director, and I think he would've done something great with the film. Hopefully, whoever the studio does end up bringing on to direct will give us something great.