Knightfall: Ben Affleck Will Not Direct ‘The Batman’

If you know anybody who always wanted to direct a Batman movie, now is the perfect time for them to send their resumé to Warner Bros…

Ben Affleck, who plays the superhero Batman in the studio’s so-called “DC Extended Universe,” was originally slated to both star in and direct the next solo film about the pop culture icon, but in a statement released earlier today to Variety, he has decided to step down.

Also: Let’s Rank All Thirty DC Comics Movies!

“There are certain characters who hold a special place in the hearts of millions, Ben Affleck says in his statement. “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.”

So the good news for those who loved Ben Affleck’s performance in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice is, he’s still the man inside the cowl. He just won’t be the person in the director’s chair, and frankly, that makes sense. Any movie about Batman is bound to be a very large production, and even a director like Affleck – who is used to directing himself in features like The TownArgo and Live By Night – would understandably decide it’s a logistical nightmare to both manage a gigantic set and also perform an incredibly technical performance underneath a heavy costume and very hot lights.

We’ll be back with more information when we learn who, exactly, Warner Bros. expects to take Ben Affleck’s place as the director of The Batman.

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Top Photo: Warner Bros.

William Bibbiani (everyone calls him ‘Bibbs’) is Crave’s film content editor and critic. You can hear him every week on The B-Movies Podcast and Canceled Too Soon, and watch him on the weekly YouTube series Most CravedRapid Reviews and What the Flick. Follow his rantings on Twitter at @WilliamBibbiani.

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