Robert Pattinson and Nicholas Hoult are reportedly going through test screenings for frontrunners to replace Ben Affleck in the DC role, the actor who nabs the part will debut in the long-in-development film written and directed by Matt Reeves. No official word yet when it's going to start production but assuming that this new bit of information is true, it's safe to say that story is almost locked in and principal photography can soon commence.
Not much is known regarding the plot specifics for The Batman thus far. The project has gone through a couple of changes since it was announced several years ago. Initially, Affleck was supposed to star, direct and write the film, but he opted out of writing and directing, paving the way for Reeves to come in and take over. It took longer for the official announcement that the veteran actor is also exiting the role, opening up the spot for a new star. Unlike the original DCEU version of the character introduced by Zack Snyder, who is older and more worldly, this new iteration will be a younger version of the iconic superhero. And according to reports, it's currently a toss up between Pattinson and Hoult as Warner and DC move forward with their casting efforts.
According to the The Wrap's Umberto Gonzalez, both Pattinson and Hoult are screen testing for the role, particularly with the Batsuit. Aside from that, he also noted The Batman is now expected to begin production in the first quarter of 2020 which leaves it ample time for its summer 2021 release. Looking at the comments section of the source's Twitter post, it seems like Pattinson is the crowd-favorite coming into this stage of Bruce Wayne casting, some are even comparing his looks to Affleck's older iteration of the character. Check out his tweet below:
It has been a tumultuous process searching for the next Batman, and for a while there wasn't any news regarding casting for the role after Affleck's departure. There were rumors that it doesn't seem like he'll be putting on the cape and cowl.
Pattinson's and Hoult's names are said to be frontrunners for The Batman, but just to be sure, it's safe to wait for a proper announcement before getting attached to anyone of them. Both actors have an expansive and varied portfolio. They've been in popular franchises with Pattinson leading the The Lost City of Z for Pattinson.
Source: Umberto Gonzalez
