Michael Keaton recently shared insights in a career retrospective interview with GQ magazine, reflecting on his iconic role as Batman in Tim Burton's 1989 superhero film. Keaton acknowledged the boldness of his casting, given his comedic background in movies like 'Mr. Mom' prior to taking on the Dark Knight persona. The decision to cast Keaton as Batman initially faced backlash from comic book enthusiasts, but Burton's confidence in him prevailed.
Keaton's prior collaboration with Burton on 'Beetlejuice' played a significant role in his Batman casting. The actor recalled his surprise when approached for the role, emphasizing the unexpected nature of the opportunity. Despite the initial skepticism, Keaton's portrayal of Batman garnered widespread acclaim and solidified his place in superhero movie history.
Mark Hamill, known for his portrayal of the Joker in 'Batman: The Animated Series,' revealed that Keaton's ability to overcome criticism inspired him to take on the iconic villain role. Hamill highlighted the parallels between the skepticism surrounding Keaton's casting and the doubts surrounding his own portrayal of the Joker, ultimately proving critics wrong with his stellar performance.
Keaton also shared an amusing anecdote from the set, recounting a conversation with Jack Nicholson, who portrayed the Joker in the film. Nicholson's advice on maintaining a lean physique for the role left Keaton reflecting on his approach to preparing for the character.
While Keaton reprised his role as Batman in the 1992 sequel 'Batman Returns,' subsequent plans for a third movie took a different direction with Val Kilmer stepping into the Caped Crusader's boots for 'Batman Forever.' Keaton's return to the Batman universe in the upcoming film 'The Flash' marks a nostalgic reunion for fans of his portrayal of the iconic superhero.
Keaton's candid reflections on his Batman journey offer a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of bringing a beloved comic book character to life on the big screen. His enduring legacy as the Dark Knight continues to resonate with audiences, showcasing the transformative power of a daring casting choice in the realm of superhero cinema.
