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By: Adam Basciano

Superman-Batman movie logo

We can put away all of our casting suggestions and lay the speculation to rest.  Warner Brothers has lit the bat-signal once more and found the new Batman. Academy award-winning actor/director Ben Affleck (The Town/Argo) has been cast as Bruce Wayne and Batman.  The director of the upcoming Batman/Superman film Zack Snyder discussed the choice of Ben Affleck saying, ” Ben provides an interesting counter-balance to Henry’s Superman.  He has the acting chops to create a layered portrayal of a man who is older and wiser than Clark Kent and bears the scars of a seasoned crime fighter, but retain the charm that the world sees in billionaire Bruce Wayne.  I can’t wait to work with him. The film will also star “Man of Steel”  alumni Henry Cavill returning as Clark Kent/Superman, Amy Adams as Lois Lane, Diane Lane as Martha Kent, and Laurence Fishburne as Daily Planet Editor – in – Chief Perry White.  It was also announced that the film will be released on July 17, 2015.

Ben Affleck

Now, what do I think about Ben Affleck being cast as the new Dark Knight.  I like it. Ben Affleck is a two-time Academy Award winner for his directorial efforts on “Argo” and for his screen writing efforts on “Good Will Hunting.” He also starred in one of those films. I also liked his performance as George Reeves in “Hollywoodland.”  Acting talent not withstanding, he has a good look for Bruce Wayne and a jaw-line fit for Batman. He stands a 6’3 1/2, which is around comic book height for the comic book purists who care about that sort of thing.  He also fits the age range the studio was looking for. Now I  can hear some of you yelling blasphemy, because most comic book fans hated “Daredevil”.  I actually liked it. Sure it’s nowhere near the quality of some of the great films in the genre, but I liked it (especially the Director’s Cut). For those who hated it and Affleck’s performance, an actor is only as good as the script he’s given. I mean imagine Christian Bale in “Batman & Robin.” Regardless, that film would still be a pile of shit. I mean sure, it may smell slightly less putrid, but crap is crap. Hell, George Clooney would’ve been a great Batman had the script treated the material semi-respectfully and made a film instead of a two-hour toy commercial.  Also, I think Ben Affleck as an actor has learned from his missteps from a DECADE ago.  I’m sure he is aware of how important Batman is in popular culture and among the comic book fanbase and I’m sure he wouldn’t have taken on the role if he didn’t think he was up to the challenge of being Batman.  Also, for all of you over reacting, and there are sure to many of you….Remember you did the same thing with Michael Keaton and Heath Ledger….Look how that turned out.

(Source: Variety)