Actor Michael Keaton’s collaboration with director Tim Burton resulted in two live-action Batman movies that are loved and appreciated even today. As a result, it might surprise some fans that the duo butted heads over one casting decision during the production of Batman, which introduced several popular comic book characters.
One of the biggest struggles during the making of the sequel was the casting of Selina Kyle / Catwoman. While Burton cast Michelle Pfeiffer for the role, lead star Keaton earlier did not want the actress anywhere near the sets of the first installment. Nonetheless, Pfeiffer’s performance remains memorable, making viewers curious why Keaton was against her casting.
Michael Keaton Was Against Michelle Pfeiffer’s Casting in Batman
After the critical and commercial success of 1989’s Batman, Michael Keaton and Tim Burton were signed for a sequel that would eventually take the shape of Batman Returns. In the sequel, actress Michelle Pfeiffer was cast to play the role of Selina Kyle / Catwoman, one of the antagonists in the film.
According to actor Robert Wuhl, who played Alexander Knox in the first film, Pfeiffer was initially Burton’s choice for the role of Vicki Vale in Batman. While the role eventually went to Kim Basinger, Wuhl revealed that Keaton was firmly against Pfeiffer’s casting because of their personal history.
“Michael Keaton and Michelle Pfeiffer had previously dated and broken up. At the time, Michael told me he was trying to get back with his ex-wife. Keaton was firmly, and underline firmly, against that casting of Pfeiffer and he and Peters got into it.”
Wuhl made the above statement in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, addressing Keaton’s reasoning behind not wanting to work with Pfeiffer. The actor also revealed that Keaton and producer Jon Peters argued over the casting choice. However, it seems by the time of Batman Returns, Keaton had resolved his personal issues and seemingly did not oppose Pfeiffer’s casting as Catwoman.
Michelle Pfeiffer’s Performance Remains the Best On-Screen Portrayal of Catwoman
Aside from the drama over her casting in the first film, Michelle Pfeiffer‘s road to playing Catwoman in Batman Returns wasn’t easy. Actress Annette Bening was the first choice who had to drop out because of her pregnancy. After looking at other replacements, the role eventually went to Pfeiffer and it is safe to say the actress nailed it.
In the film, Catwoman acts as a love interest and distraction for Keaton’s Bruce Wayne / Batman. Pfeiffer perfectly encapsulates the duality of the character, complementing the gothic vision of Burton’s Gotham City. At the same time, her costume and personality appear to be a more amped-up version of the character from the comics. Pfeiffer and Keaton’s chemistry also shines throughout their interactions in the film.
Ultimately, it is safe to say that Michelle Pfeiffer understood the tone and pitch of Burton’s take on Catwoman and infused it with her own energy. Her past with Keaton might also have contributed to their on-screen chemistry, which is integral to convincingly playing Catwoman. Adding Catwoman’s character development, Pfeiffer’s take on the character is certainly one of the best portrayals of the character, even today.
