‘Batman: The Animated Series’ Turns 25

Batman: The Animated Series turned 25 recently. The Hollywood Reporter has an oral history of the classic TV show:

“As a kid, I had a very conservative Irish-Catholic upbringing. So when Bruce Timm asked me what I knew about Batman, I immediately mentioned the TV show and he screamed, ‘No, no, no! That’s not what we’re doing. Erase that!’ ” says Conroy. “He explained the dark, noir story and Bruce’s vow to his parents which leads to the dual identities. It was sort of Shakespearean tragedy, so I approached it like you would Hamlet or Edgar in King Lear.”

I was on a podcast talking about this show a few months ago, it really does hold up.

Ben Affleck Steps Down as ‘The Batman’ Director

Variety has a statement from Ben Affleck on his decision to step down as the director of The Batman.

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.

Joe Manganiello Cast as Deathstroke for Batman Movie

DC Comics

Joe Manganiello has been cast as Deathstroke for the upcoming Ben Affleck helmed Batman movie.

Geoff Johns, president of DC Entertainment and co-chief of DC Movies, confirmed the casting during an interview with The Wall Street Journal. It was also revealed that Johns, who was recently promoted to oversee DC’s film division, is currently writing the solo Batman feature that’s set to be directed by Affleck. In addition to Batman, the prolific comic book writer is working to develop The Flash, Aquaman, and Cyborg for the big screen. (WSJ also reports that Johns did a rewrite of the Wonder Woman script and worked with director Patty Jenkins to get it right; similarly, he worked with Zack Snyder on rewrites for The Justice League, which is currently filming in London.)