SDCC 2017: Ben Affleck reveals why he chose not to direct The Batman

By Erik Swann | Jul 25, 2017

Ben Affleck gives the true reason for his stepping down as the director of The Batman.

Fans rejoiced when Ben Affleck confirmed at the Warner Bros. Comic-Con panel that he would continue to play Batman for the foreseeable future. This includes Matt Reeves’ The Batman. Still, the actor/director has never publicly talked about the exact circumstances regarding his decision not to direct the film himself. Now, he’s provided his reasons for doing so.

While talking to EW at San Diego Comic-Con, Affleck reaffirmed his plans to continue in the role:

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"“My status remains what it always is. I’ve done the two movies. I’ve always intended on doing a third if Warners wants to make it. Certainly, if the Batphone rings, I will answer.”"

He then explained that the physical demands of the role would have made directing too difficult:

"“It’s such a big job, in terms of the stunts and the suit and the action and the character. Trying to do that, and direct, would probably be too much. Something would be compromised. I think it came off, optically, to the broader world, like lack of interest or enthusiasm. When in fact I love this character.”"

Affleck also expressed his excitement in having Matt Reeves on board to direct:

"“I think getting Matt Reeves to come in and do it is really, really exciting. Matt hasn’t really unveiled his full vision yet. He wanted to wait until Apes came out, and he was obviously consumed with that. So, I’m looking forward to hearing what his story is.”"

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Finally, he talked about his desire to get The Batman right and also acknowledged that one day he will have to hand over the character to another actor:

"“Warners has been working on it, making sure we’re getting it right. That’s the partnership you definitely want. With Wonder Woman, they really hit a home run. With [Justice League], I think we’ve found the tone, and found the flavor of it. I’d love to do it as long as they’ll have me. Eventually, it’ll be somebody else, and I’m sure they’ll get somebody great. But while I’m doing it, I’m going to do the best job I can, and really appreciate how lucky I am.”"

If you’re a Batman fan, DCEU fan or just a general comic book movie fan, this is likely music to your ears. Ben Affleck is still playing Batman and he’s apparently going all in on the role.