Why David Corenswet’s Superman and Robert Pattinson’s Batman Are Game Changers for DC!

In simple terms, both “Superman” directed by James Gunn and “The Batman” by Matt Reeves demonstrate an exceptional ability to update their characters while staying true to their original DC Comics roots. “The Batman,” initially conceived from the remnants of Ben Affleck’s abandoned DCEU spinoff, offers a gritty, realistic portrayal of a younger, standalone Dark Knight. Conversely, James Gunn’s DC Universe debut with “Superman” marks the beginning of numerous subsequent films within the DCU’s Gods and Monsters series on the big screen.

Despite the immense success of Matt Reeves’ “The Batman” and the high expectations for both his sequel and James Gunn’s “Superman”, it has been confirmed that Reeves’ “The Batman” series will not be a part of the DCU. Instead, a new Batman is set to appear in Andy Muschietti’s “The Brave and the Bold”. Meanwhile, Robert Pattinson’s portrayal of Batman will continue in his own trilogy. Interestingly, both Gunn’s and Reeves’ contemporary takes on the World’s Finest share a notable similarity.

David Corenswet’s Superman & Robert Pattinson’s Batman Are Paying Homage to Christopher Reeve & Adam West

Gunn’s Superman and Reeves’ The Batman Honor The ’60s and ’70s Portrayals

In a somewhat surprising twist, Matt Reeves’ The Batman shares unexpected similarities with the iconic portrayal of Batman by Adam West in the 1960s. One of the most noticeable homages to that era is found in Robert Pattinson’s cowl, which resembles West’s with its round shape, short ears, and shimmering seams that catch the light much like the original costume’s highlighted brow and nose. The Wayne Manor features a Shakespeare bust and an old-fashioned rotary telephone, while the Batmobile’s design harks back to the muscular aesthetics of its 1960s counterpart with its sleek, streamlined appearance.

In the trailers for James Gunn’s version of Superman, there are clear nods to Christopher Reeve’s iconic portrayal of the Man of Steel. The score, reminiscent of John Williams’ legendary music from “Superman: The Movie,” is a modern update, but maintains the hopeful tone that was present in the 1978 film. David Corenswet’s portrayal of both a timid Clark Kent and a powerful Superman offers a striking contrast since Reeve’s performance. Furthermore, Lois Lane and Jimmy Olsen are back in focus, and details like a more comics-accurate Fortress of Solitude and Superman’s red trunks suggest that this new Superman will embrace the unabashed charm that characterized Reeve’s era.

Gunn’s Superman & Reeves’ The Batman May Pull Off A Feat Previous DC Movies Failed To Achieve

James Gunn And Matt Reeves Successfully Bring Reeve’s Superman And West’s Batman To The Modern Day

James Gunn’s “Superman” and Matt Reeves’ “The Batman” aren’t the only films that have paid tribute to Christopher Reeve’s Man of Steel and Adam West’s Caped Crusader. Bryan Singer’s “Superman Returns” aimed to be a direct follow-up to “Superman II,” taking place in the same universe as the Reeve-starring “Superman” movies. However, despite referencing past events and similar acting styles, “Superman Returns” failed to recreate the magical, action-packed feel that made Christopher Reeve’s Superman so unique. In the end, “Superman Returns” wasn’t well-received by audiences or critics, leading to a complete reboot in the form of “Man of Steel” a few years after.

Approximately ten years prior to “Superman Returns”, Joel Schumacher’s films “Batman Forever” and “Batman & Robin” attempted to recapture the playful, campy feel of the Adam West era, departing from Tim Burton’s more serious “Batman” and “Batman Returns”. Although “Batman Forever” managed some commercial success, its elaborate visual style and self-referential humor sparked mixed reactions. “Batman & Robin”, which further emphasized the camp, however, was met with poor reviews, effectively ending the franchise’s trajectory. This paved the way for Christopher Nolan’s grittier, realistic “Batman Begins” reboot a few years later.

Superman & The Batman’s Respect For Their Movie Roots Is A Good Sign For DC

The DCU And The Batman Trilogy Aren’t Afraid To Return To Their Classic Roots

As a film enthusiast, I’m truly captivated by how James Gunn’s DC Universe Superman and Matt Reeves’ The Batman trilogy are redefining these iconic heroes for modern times. Unlike many other superhero productions today, neither of them feel the need to completely overhaul their characters to fit contemporary trends. Instead, they courageously integrate elements from the 60s and 70s into the 2020s, not out of nostalgia, but as a testament to the directors’ clear vision for reinterpreting these characters for today’s audiences. This level of confidence in both properties is particularly impressive given their previous darker and more realistic portrayals, such as Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy and the DCEU.

2025-05-26 21:47