Nearly a year after rumors began to swirl about Michael Keaton reprising his famous role as Batman for the upcoming Flash movie, the film spirits have finally decided to give fans a break from speculating. Keaton's return has now officially been confirmed, and fans of Tim Burton's iconic Batman duology now have something truly special to look forward to.
The Wrap reports that Keaton's own talent agency, ICM Partners, broke the news. This revelation comes after almost a full year of studios, fans, and even the actor himself constantly wondering whether or not such a monumental event will happen. But thankfully, the Andy Muschietti-directed film known simply as The Flash now has the veteran performer locked in, just in time for production to officially begin.
Keaton had spoken about the potential casting numerous times, saying he was unsure if he would actually return as Batman due in part to COVID-19 concerns. From those interviews, what could have been taken was that he certainly had an interest in taking the role, but a number of other factors prevented him from fully committing before being absolutely certain about it.
The Flash has been heavily hinted to follow the "Flashpoint" storyline from the DC comics. This plot would see Ezra Miller as Barry Allen (alter ego of The Flash) goes back in time to stop his mother's murder, only to change the rest of reality as a result, creating an alternate universe where massive changes have occurred. One such change in the film will feature Keaton as the same version of Bruce Wayne/Batman he played in 1989's Batman and 1992's Batman Returns, still in the superhero game after 30 years. The Flash will reportedly ignore the two follow-up films (Batman Forever and Batman & Robin) and instead depict Keaton's character as a continuation of when he was last seen in Batman Returns.
As if one Batman isn't enough, Ben Affleck was also confirmed last year to return as his version of Batman for The Flash, teasing lots of alternate universe hijinks featuring at least two different iterations of the hero. While the question of whether Keaton will actually show up has finally been cleared up, it's still up in the air just how prominent a role he'll play. Considering how he wasn't even sure he would be a part of the film only a short while ago, it's entirely possible that it will simply be an extended cameo like many of the big names seen in The CW's massive "Crisis on Infinite Earths" crossover event.
Still, it's a big moment, knowing that many people's favorite version of Batman will finally return to the big screen after all this time. The Flash is still a ways off, but there's a very good chance there will be plenty more pleasant surprises revealed along the way.
The Flash is set to premiere on November 4th, 2022.
Source: The Wrap