If there's one superhero character that nearly every comic fan and moviegoers loves, its Batman. Gotham's defender has a special place in our hearts for being such a layered and emotionally damaged character, while also kicking ass and taking names without having superpowers. As such, fans have very strong opinions about Batman's silver screen appearances, often comparing Ben Affleck's DCEU Batman with Christopher Nolan's Dark Knight trilogy. Although it now appears that Nolan himself might have actually helped out Zack Snyder with the highly divisive Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.
The LA Times recently wrote a piece about IMAX technology in film. Obviously a plethora of superhero films were brought up, and the publication revealed that director Christopher Nolan apparently lent one of his personal lenses to Zack Snyder for Dawn of Justice. These parts are apparently very hard to come by, so Nolan helped out in a passing of the torch moment with Snyder. Additionally, LA Times also reports that he lent lenses to J.J. Abrams and company for Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Classy move, Nolan.
This act of kindness and may just help the hardcore Dark Knight fans find solace in Batman v Superman. Zack Snyder's second installment in the still infant DCEU was met with major backlash from critics and fans alike, especially Batman purists. Fans saw their favorite character committing acts of murder, which go against everything we've ever known about Bruce Wayne. And while Ben Affleck makes a fantastic Bruce/Batman, it wasn't enough to redeem and otherwise lackluster movie experience.
But the story of Christopher Nolan helping fellow filmmakers out is certainly heartwarming, and adds a level of humanity to the business. We as outsiders often assume film studios have every resource imaginable, but sometimes they still need to ask for help. With IMAX film and cameras becoming almost expected in the superhero genre, it's surprising that there is such a lack of certain equipment in Hollywood.
While Christopher Nolan's contribution to Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice might not have improved the overall quality of movie, you can't deny that the visuals were stunning. And while Suicide Squad suffered similarly meh reviews, shakeups behind the scenes at the DCEU will hopefully result in more critically acclaimed installments moving forward.
Despite a rocky start, the budding universe has continually announced new projects that are being developed. Batman fans should be particularly excited moving forward. Because in addition to the untitled Batman solo movie, there is also Joss Whedon's Batgirl movie, Gotham City Sirens, and a Nightwing film being developed at DC. They know what property the fans love, and they're going to cash in.
The next installment in the DCEU is Patty Jenkins' Wonder Woman, which will arrive in theaters on June 2nd. Be sure to check out our full 2017 release list and plan your next trip to the movies.
