If so, does this mean we’re getting a live action version of “Under the Red Hood?”
After a rather… crazy fan theory regarding Batman and the Joker in the new DC Cinematic Universe this week, we’ve gotten word of something far more plausible from the rumor mill.
There’s been a lot of talk that the execs at WB are so impressed with Ben Affleck’s performance as Batman in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice that they want him in Batman solo films. Not only that, but they want him to direct at least the first.
Well, if the latest report from Joblo is correct, we now know the premise of that film and it’s pretty darn exciting.
Are they adapting an existing story from the comics?
Indeed they are.
Which story?
Well, it seems they’re looking to the return of ex-Robin Jason Todd as the Red Hood for inspiration. That run of comics was collected in the excellent “Under the Red Hood” animated film, so we’d recommend watching that to prime yourself on what to expect from the film if the rumors are true.
How would this play out in the films?
Well, the Batman v Superman trailer confirms that the Joker killed a Robin, who is most likely but unconfirmed to be Jason Todd. There are also rumors we’ll be getting a quick flashback to Jared Leto’s Joker killing Robin as a quick adaptation of the “A Death in the Family” storyline from 1988.
Apparently, Dick Grayson as Nightwing will also be referenced in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice but not seen. His role however, will come to the forefront in the solo Batman film as the Red Hood comes to Gotham City looking for revenge against the Joker.
How likely is this?
We actually think this report is probably right on the money. Not only is it a very fresh story to tell for a Batman movie, it’s the kind of dramatic character based material that could both compete with and distinguish itself from the Nolan trilogy.
After all, Nolan’s trilogy specifically stayed away from the Robin part of the mythos until the very end and even then it was with a twist. An adaptation of the Red Hood storyline would delve into that aspect of the character and place it front and center in a way that’s never been attempted for live action.
So, yes. We believe this report is probably very accurate.
Who would they get to play Dick Grayson and Jason Todd?
Expect relative unknowns or up-and-coming actors. Ben Affleck and Jeremy Irons are already bringing the star power, which will allow the filmmakers to focus on simply picking the best actors to fill the roles in a way that won’t distract from the story.
Overall, really exciting stuff.
