Why Ben Affleck Stepping Down as Director For ‘The Batman’ Is Not A Bad Thing
By: Alex Gray
We’ve recently found out that Ben Affleck will no longer be in the director’s chair for the highly anticipated ‘The Batman’ film. I’m here to tell you that this is not a bad thing.
We’ve all seen what the media and the constant limelight can do to a celebrity, Affleck included. The critic’s response to ‘Batman V Superman’ and ‘Suicide Squad’ were less than stellar and took a toll on the forty-four year old actor. Putting one’s heart and soul into a piece, only to have it ripped to shreds by audiences, will definitely do as such.
Warner Bros. and Affleck came to the mutual decision to have him step down as director, to create the best film possible. Doing so allows him to spend more time perfecting his character, which will hopefully drive this Batman flick to be the best one yet.
Ben Affleck seems to agree, saying:
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
Despite having a positive outlook on the matter, I can’t say I’m too surprised that this has happened, considering how the film’s executives and Affleck have both been unhappy with the script. I would have loved to see an Affleck-directed Batman piece, but I wouldn’t want to see one that came as a result of studio or fan pressure.
With David Ayer’s recent statement, “I wish I had a time machine”, speaking of his regret with ‘Suicide Squad’, I’m glad Warner Bros. and Affleck are taking their time to do things right.
Ben Affleck has starred as the Caped Crusader in last year’s ‘Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice’ and ‘Suicide Squad’. We will see him tackle the role again in November’s ‘Justice League’.
