The Perfect Choice For the DCU’s New Batman is Hiding In Plain Sight

Currently, the future of “The Batman II” seems uncertain as director Matt Reeves regularly provides updates, although these are often ambiguous. With revisions to the script and Robert Pattinson’s busy schedule, it appears that production may face some delays. On the other hand, “Superman” (2025) is set to launch James Gunn’s new DC Universe on the silver screen, leading many to ponder what the landscape of this fresh DC Universe will be like.

As a die-hard fan, I’ve been eagerly following the developments in the DC Universe (DCU). Robert Pattinson’s upcoming film, “The Batman,” is set in a distinct universe to avoid confusion with the current Dark Knight in the main DCU. This leads me to ponder: Who will don the cape and cowl next in the DCU? With countless talented actors to choose from and a rich history of past performances to learn from, the decision on who should portray the next Batman is a challenging one.

However, while we’re all busy speculating about the actor, there’s another question that hasn’t been asked much: Which character should be Batman? We’ve seen numerous Batman films featuring Bruce Wayne. It’s high time for a different character to take up the mantle, just as it was in the DC Comics. I, for one, am eagerly waiting to see a fresh interpretation of this iconic role.

The Batmen Of The Past On The Silver Screen

From Michael Keaton’s Batman, to Christian Bale’s Dark Knight, to Robert Pattinson and Beyond

In every Batman, Superman, and Justice League movie on the big screen, as well as in each DC animated series, Bruce Wayne has taken on the role of Batman. This iconic character is undoubtedly a cornerstone of the DC Universe – part of the Trinity, an original member of the Justice League, and one of the most enduringly popular fictional figures ever created.

For quite some time now, Bruce has stepped into Batman’s role, while Dick Grayson has had limited screen appearances. His most significant roles have been in the ’60s Batman movie and the criticized films Batman Forever and Batman & Robin. Nonetheless, Dick Grayson is due for a thoughtful script; he needs to shine in the limelight.

Over the past ten years, there has been a significant increase in the number of superhero movies. Unlike before when Batman was only seen on screen occasionally, he is now almost always associated with DC productions. In just a short span of time, multiple actors have played Batman in films – Michael Keaton played him in “The Batman” (2022), making it four if we count George Clooney’s brief appearance at the end of “The Flash.

In various portrayals, many actors have taken on the role of Bruce Wayne, but this overlooks other characters who assumed the mantle of Batman in the comics like Damian Wayne, Tim Drake, Azrael, Terry McGinnis, and Dick Grayson. The creators behind the DCU now have a unique chance to deviate from tradition. Although Robert Pattinson plays Bruce Wayne/Batman in his own world, the Batman of the DCU could be an entirely new character.

The Current & Future State Of The DCU

Creature Commandos, Superman (2025), Peacemaker Season Two and the Upcoming Batman Projects

The DC Universe (DCU) has commenced with the debut of the ‘Creature Commandos’ animated show, marking just the beginning for this universe. Although much hinges on the success of ‘Superman,’ there are numerous other DCU projects that have been announced and are currently in production.

The “Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow” production is underway, and the live-action “Lanterns” series will revive Green Lantern’s presence in the spotlight following a significant gap since the 2011 “Green Lantern” movie. But where does Batman factor into this storyline?

Director Gunn revealed that a movie adaptation of “Brave and the Bold” will feature Damian Wayne as Robin, and this film will also introduce a new Batman character. The “unusual father-son relationship” that Gunn teased could encompass various interpretations. Since they’re drawing inspiration from Grant Morrison’s Batman comics, the “father and son” may not strictly refer to Bruce and Damian. During Morrison’s “Batman and Robin” comic series in 2009, Dick Grayson played a significant role as a father figure to Damian.

The Batman Of Tomorrow (No, Not Batman Beyond)

Dick Grayson Wore the Cape and Cowl in DC Comics, so it’s Time He Became the Dark Knight on the Big Screen

During the epic battle of Final Crisis in the DC Comics universe, it seemed as though Bruce Wayne sacrificed his life while fighting Darkseid. However, what actually happened was that Bruce was moved through different timelines in DC, a fact unknown to those in the present. This left Gotham City without its beloved protector.

In this scenario, Dick Grayson emerged victorious for the coveted cape and cowl, as he was the sole contender who genuinely didn’t seek it. For quite some time, Dick Grayson held the role of Batman in DC Comics, with Damian Wayne by his side as Robin.

In the eyes of many, the period known as the Grant Morrison-penned “Batman and Robin” era surpassed any other featuring Bruce Wayne. Unlike the traditional Batman, Dick Grayson was a lighter character, injecting humor into the role while also serving as a brotherly figure to Damian. In this duo, Alfred played an instrumental role in their success, providing counsel and aid when Bruce was absent. However, with the New 52 reboot in 2011 and the comeback of Bruce Wayne, Dick once again assumed his position as Nightwing ––a role he has maintained to this day in the comics.

Bruce Wayne might have already been Batman and perished while on duty, leaving behind a void in Gotham City and among his family – specifically, Dick Grayson, Damian, and Alfred – who each cope with this emptiness differently.

In a new and invigorating take on Batman, Dick Grayson shines as the protagonist, making mistakes and smiling effortlessly without discomfort. This fresh portrayal of Batman significantly alters Gotham’s landscape, causing criminals to react differently and creating an entirely unique atmosphere. By focusing on Dick Grayson instead of Bruce Wayne, James Gunn and the DCU creators can rejuvenate the universe while providing the long-overdue limelight for this deserving character in DC films. This change could advance the worldbuilding for the DCU and bring much-needed attention to Dick Grayson’s story.

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2025-06-07 01:42