The DC Extended Universe is an interesting place. Still very early in its run, we've seen as DC attempted to compete with the MCU by introducing many characters at once, rather than slowly building the shared universe. The results have been a bit mixed, especially in regards to both Batman v Superman and Justice League. As such, it looks like Ben Affleck is reconsidering his role as Batman in the DCEU, and may be bringing it to a close sooner than planned. While the sad Affleck meme made it almost worth it, his final performance as the Dark Knight may be in other characters' movies. Specifically, Suicide Squad 2 and/or Flashpoint.
This report comes to us from Batman on Film, which apparently had some sources close to DC Studios. With Ben Affleck intending to leave the role in the near future, it looks like his last hurrah will come as a supporting role in Suicide Squad 2 or Flashpoint. Now the question is exactly what these final appearances might entail, and how they could possibly give the character an appropriate ending.
Flashpoint seems like a great way to give Ben Affleck's Bruce Wayne a final bow. Because The Flash's first solo movie will be a time jumping adventure, it could allow for the universe to be reset in many ways. One decision by the Scarlet Speedster could result in Bruce Wayne never even becoming Batman, and therefore allowing Ben Affleck to not so quietly slink out of the spotlight. While this would certainly inspire a strong fan reaction, its a way to make Affleck's departure make sense within the story of the DCEU.
Alternatively, Suicide Squad's sequel could do something different with Batman. Quite a few of the villains in that team were Batman rogues who shared a history with the Dark Knight, and could make his final run epic. It would be especially fascinating to see Deadshot and Batman face off one last time, considering how Will Smith's character was primarily motivated by wanting revenge on the hero. And with the Deadshot movie seemingly falling by the wayside, this would be a great way of giving Smith another big role in the DCEU, and properly featuring both he and Ben Affleck.
Regardless, Ben Affleck's eventual departure is sure to be disappointing for DC fans. His scarred and hardened version of Batman was the true saving grace of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, and he's got the natural charm that fits perfectly for Bruce Wayne. Unfortunately, the mixed response to BvS, Suicide Squad, and Justice League may have scared off the actor/director. There have been tons of theories regarding who should replace him in the role, with the current fan favorite being Jake Gyllenhaal.
The next installment in the DC Extended Universe is James Wan's Aquaman on December 21st, 2018. In the meantime, check out our 2018 release list to plan your trips to the movies this year.
