Robert Pattinson: ‘Batman’s Not a Hero’
The casting of Robert Pattinson as Bruce Wayne/Batman in Matt Reeves’ upcoming The Batman certainly raised eyebrows, and ire, among many fans of the Caped Crusader.
With all the scrutiny on Pattinson and the new film, his new comments on Batman are likely to anger some fans. However, it’s important to understand the context of his words, as they aren’t as provocative as they seem.
In a new interview with Kyle Buchanan of The New York Times, Pattinson says we should be skeptical of any actor who wants to play the hero in a film. When Buchanan asks how he reconciles that statement with playing Batman, Pattinson says this.
Batman’s not a hero, though. He’s a complicated character. I don’t think I could ever play a real hero — there’s always got to be something a little bit wrong. I think it’s because one of my eyes is smaller than the other one.
While some may hone in on the “Batman’s not a hero” quote (after all, we did so in our title), it’s clear Pattinson understands the complex nature of the character, something Christopher Nolan explored in his Dark Knight trilogy.
The Comments In Context
Pattinson gives an interesting answer as to why actors would like to play complex characters.
I’ve always thought that the only reason you’d want to play a good guy all the time is because you’re desperately ashamed of what you’re doing in real life, whereas if you’re a pretty normal person, the most fun part of doing movies is that you can explore the more grotesque or naughty sides of your psyche in a somewhat safe environment.
In other excerpts from the interview, it is clear Pattinson has a real respect and understanding for the character, and for his director.
I love the director, Matt Reeves, and it’s a dope character. His morality is a little bit off. He’s not the golden boy, unlike almost every other comic-book character. There is a simplicity to his worldview, but where it sits is strange, which allows you to have more scope with the character.
Pattinson also knows full well about the online outrage culture that will scrutinize anything he says.
I just fear that when I say anything about “Batman,” people online are like, “What does this mean?” And I don’t know! I used to be very good at censoring myself, but I’ve said so many ridiculous things over the years, so I’m always curious when I’m promoting these movies how many times I can mess up.
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