Ben Affleck Not Directing Batman

Ben Affleck is officially not directing the Batman solo movie

Being Batman is one hell of a tough job. So is co-writing, starring, producing and directing a movie about him. Ben Affleck had been wearing all those hats for the upcoming solo adventure of the Dark Knight for the DCEU. Affleck had consistently said that if he felt it wasn’t coming together like he felt, he might not direct it.

Well apparently something had to give with spinning all those plates concurrently, as Variety reports that Ben Affleck has stepped away from directing duties on the solo Batman movie. Ben Affleck will still hang on as producer and of course star in the film as the Caped Crusader. Affleck did release a statement explaining why he decided to step down as director on the film:

"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."

Warner Bros. also released a statement saying they fully support this decision and will work with Affleck to bring the Batman movie to life.

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While they are finding a new director, Affleck still co-wrote the script and this is very much his vision. Saying he’s looking for a “partner” in a director suggests it will still very much be his movie, he just needs a director he can share the load with. Though this is the latest in a long line of Warner Bros. having trouble with directors for some of their DC film projects. The Batman solo movie is still supposedly shooting sometime this year and is reportedly due out sometime in 2018. Obviously this may change plans quite a bit…