The Batman II Script Is Complete, DP Greig Fraser’s Return Not Certain Yet

As a cinephile with over three decades of movie-going under my belt, I must say that the news about The Batman Part II has me both excited and concerned. After the masterful storytelling and cinematography of the first film, I can’t help but feel that Matt Reeves and Greig Fraser have truly breathed new life into the Caped Crusader.


Following two years of excitement, it appears that the production of The Batman Part II by Matt Reeves is progressing quite well, but there’s some potentially disappointing news as well. The upcoming sequel will precede the critically acclaimed spinoff The Penguin, starring Colin Farrell, without featuring Robert Pattinson’s Batman. However, fans can take solace in the fact that they won’t have to wait much longer for The Batman Part II, as the script has been finalized after years of development. Yet, there remains a question mark over an essential element of the franchise.

Prior to the release of “The Batman”, director Matt Reeves carefully crafted the script and set up the details for his new Gotham-focused DC universe. The end product was a testament to this effort, prompting Reeves to take an extended time to develop its sequel. Two years after the initial film’s release, Reeves has now revealed to Entertainment Weekly that he and co-writer Mattson Tomlin have completed the script for “The Batman Part II”. Furthermore, the director hinted that the sequel will unfold some time after the events of “The Batman” and its spinoff, “The Penguin”. Some speculate that “Part II” may delve into a winter setting, but Reeves remains tight-lipped about further details: “I can’t reveal where it goes from there, except to say that we’re thrilled about it.

In an interview with Collider, Reeves was asked about Greig Fraser potentially returning for The Batman Part II. Fraser played a crucial role as the cinematographer in the first movie, helping shape the overall aesthetic of the universe. It seems likely that Reeves plans to have Fraser back in Gotham again, but no decisions have been made officially yet.

As of now, I’m unsure about the timing. However, I really hope it aligns for that project, but I can’t say for certain yet. We haven’t reached a point where we know the answer to that question. I’m keeping my fingers crossed because I enjoy collaborating with him immensely; I think he’s fantastic. In fact, he contributed a bit to the series as well, since I wanted to ensure the DNA of our visual style remained consistent as we developed our unique voice.

The Batman Would Not Be The Same Without Its DP

It’s unsettling that the decision regarding Greg Fraser’s return as cinematographer for “The Batman Part II” hasn’t been finalized yet, given his crucial role in shaping Reeves’ universe. The distinctive, earthy aesthetic of “The Batman” sets it apart from other superhero films, with its stunning lighting and carefully composed shots creating a dramatic atmosphere suitable for a gripping crime saga. Fraser employs innovative techniques such as scanning digital footage onto film to achieve an authentic grain, in addition to various visual modifications. If Fraser indeed returns for the sequel, it’s likely without any issues; however, director Matt Reeves’ reluctance to confirm his cinematographer’s involvement is significant and could potentially alter the film’s visual style significantly.

Should “The Batman Part II” proceed without Fraser, albeit improbable, fans can anticipate a thrilling new installment in the series that doesn’t seem hasty. Although “The Batman” skyrocketed to pop culture fame in 2022, it’s invigorating to observe a superhero franchise avoid rushing sequels. Prioritizing quality over quantity implies that fans will have to exercise patience for another six years following the first film’s release to encounter Batman again, but all indications suggest that the wait will be worthwhile.

The Batman Part II
is set to release in theaters on October 2, 2026.

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2024-09-21 00:33