Ben Affleck's selection as the Batman in Zack Snyder's 'Superman Vs Batman' had received strong criticism from almost all quarters, including Affleck's strong fanb base. No one really doubted Affleck's acting capability but perhaps most had a problem adapting to the change.
While the comic book hero character has been popular for decades, it was only in 1966 that Hollywood transported the popular character to the big screen. Till then, scores of TV shows had already been made on the series. Several actors, over the years, have been associated with the popular franchise and predictably been very popular in their superhero avatar. But while the face of Bruce Wayne has changed over the years, one thing has remained common- their nationality. Adapted for the screen by Hollywood directors, Batman has always been played by an American actors.
Adam West, Michael Keaton, Val Kilmer, George Clooney and the recent Christian Bale played the dark superhero with perfection. Of course, some would say that Christian Bale, along with director Christopher Nolan upped the ante of the franchise - which in turn led to the much public criticism over the casting of Affleck in the role. Keeping the debate of who played the character the best over the years, the actors were all mainstream popular actors, not new faces neither someone outside Hollywood.
Over the years, Hollywood has marveled and lauded actors and directors from other countries and their work. They have celebrated the work of directors like Ang Lee, Akira Korusawa, Roman Polanski and closer home Satyajit Ray and Shekhar Kapur. Actors from other countries have also slowly made their mark in Hollywood films. Actors like Jean Dujardin, Javier Bardem, Irrfan Khan- who are established stars in their countries- have carved a niche for themselves in American cinema. Their talent may have been noticed late by Hollywood, but they have been appearing in several Hollywood production in the past few years and being appreciated by the American audience as well.
So, is it time to bring a completely new face for the Batman's role. Nolan's popular 'Dark Knight' series has ended and fans are now craving to watch their superhero on the big screen. Affleck will only be playing Batman in the 'Man Of Steel' sequel but there is a need to re-introduce and perhaps re-vamp the Batman series altogether. And why not cast an actor outside Hollywood for the role?
Agreed Bruce Wayne is supposed to be an American, the story is set in America, but just like the fictitious Gotham city, it would be also interesting to watch an actor from a different ethnicity to portray the super hero in a new adapted version. The story may shift to a new country, with the superhero embarking on new adventures. Bruce Wayne's character is that of rich man with a dark past who uses his money and power to save those in need- a character which need not be region specific. Hasn't Spider-Man got a cooler snazzier makeover in Mark Webb's 'The Amazing Spider-Man'? It is a far cry from the 'loser' Peter Parker that the comic books have. And the audience has well accepted Andrew Garfield in the role, who is British by birth, playing an American superhero.
Most of us are always resistant to change. We get used to what is there for us. But change need not be always negative. While most of the ardent fans may resist the idea of having a Batman from a different ethnic background but if a good actor manages to bring the same kind of magic on screen like the previous actors have brought to the superhero's character, then why not?
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