Even though Deadpool & Wolverine reignited the love that fans had for superheroes, there is no denying that there has been an evident shift in the way Hollywood views the genre. Some of the most respected figures in the industry have been critical of the films that Marvel and DC release, and the points that they raise are not without reason.
Many have started to agree with Martin Scorsese’s famous words, believing that the films have started to feel more like theme-park rides made for the spectacle than something stemming from passion and expression. Recently, Michael Keaton revealed his thoughts on the canceled Batgirl film, and his comments did not help this statement.
It would seem that many fans have grown tired of capitalism bleeding into their childhoods, and they are no longer staying quiet.
Michael Keaton’s Confession of Treason
Recently, Michael Keaton gave an interview with GQ, where he touched on several aspects of his professional life. One of the most prominent moments in his career was his role as Batman in Tim Burton’s films. Although he recently revived this role in Ezra Miller’s The Flash, he was supposed to play a bigger role in Bilall Fallah and Adil El Arbi’s canceled Batgirl film.
During the interview, he was asked about his thoughts on the loss of an anticipated film. The actor revealed that he did not care that the project was canceled because either way, he got paid for his role. He then added that he was upset for the directors, who lost something they were passionate about. However, he did not personally care that the film did not get released.
No, I didn’t care one way or another. Big, fun, nice check,
I like those boys. They’re nice guys.” (Batgirl directors Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah, he means.) I pull for them. I want them to succeed, and I think they felt very badly, and that made me feel bad. Me? I’m good.
It is safe to say that his answer and perspective towards something that fans were seriously looking forward to surprised many. So much so, that fans are outraged.
Fans Are Surprised At Michael Keaton’s Honesty
Recently, fans have seen a growing trend of actors confessing the true intentions behind why they take comic book roles. A few years ago, they would be as kind as to admit that they liked the script or were fans of the character. However, actors have now begun to blatantly admit that they take certain roles for the money these projects bring them.
This is not an isolated case with DC, as Harrison Ford recently admitted to something similar when it comes to his role as the Red Hulk in Captain America: Brave New World. During an interview with Variety (via DisscussingFilm), he was asked what it took for him to play the role. Being brutally honest, he stated that it took him to play an idiotic character for the sake of earning money.
Michael Cain also said something similar about Jaws 4 (via IMDb), showcasing that the trend is not exclusive to the superhero genre. While these did not stir as much controversy, it would seem that Michael Keaton’s words have crossed several lines for fans.
I have never seen it, but by all accounts it is terrible. However, I have seen the house that it built, and it is terrific.
As soon as the news hit the internet, fans were quick to comment on how angry such a perspective made them.
It is safe to say that audiences don’t appreciate actors taking on beloved roles just for money, having no understanding or application of characters that have changed lives.
