The comic book universe is vast and diverse, with several characters who have caught the attention of audiences for a variety of reasons. Among these many iconic figures stand the two DC characters, Superman and Batman. One is a selfless and noble hero, the other is a vigilante yet both have left an indelible mark on popular culture.
While both characters have enjoyed an alluring appeal and draw ever since they first came into existence, Batman has undoubtedly been the most popular of the two. And Christopher Nolan, the filmmaker behind one of the best Batman trilogy so far, offered his perspective on why the Dark Knight’s mythos is so timeless.
Christopher Nolan on the Timelessness of Batman Mythos
Christopher Nolan is known best for creating mind-bending and exhilarating movies across different genres. Yet he is also renowned for his work on the Dark Knight trilogy, which is widely hailed by fans as some of the best Batman movies of all time.
The crime-fighting vigilante, who exists outside the conventional system of justice and uses methods that aren’t necessarily justiciable, is among the most popular superheroes of all time. Despite his moral ambiguity and complexities, Batman has continued to resonate with the audience.
Yet questions have been raised about why Batman continues to be as relevant and resonating among the audience after all these years. While recently talking to BFI about his 25-year-long career, Nolan had some insightful comments to make on the timelessness of the character.
“The Batman mythology … one of the reasons It’s continuously interesting [and] continuously reinvented by new generations … is because of [that] essential paradox… or idea of a good vigilante. Somebody who feels they have to resort to criminal methods or be outside the system in order to fix the system. It’s endlessly complex and interesting.”
While Batman killing people has often instigated a contentious debate, the character remains as beloved as ever. His moral ambiguity and resorting to criminal methods, although controversial, seems more appealing to fans than the norm.
Christopher Nolan’s Comments Might Anger Superman Fans
Neither did Christopher Nolan make any comments about Superman and his character, nor did his comments constitute a direct criticism of Superman. Yet his comments about the timeless appeal of Batman highlight why Superman is not as famous or interesting to fans in contrast to the Dark Knight.
The Man of Steel is often portrayed as the epitome of virtue and idealism. A character that is the true symbol of hope, righteousness, truth, and justice, whose very existence implies morality. Although that has often not been the case in some events in the comic books, it is undeniable that Superman is the Beacon of Hope in DC comics.
Unlike the Gotham Guardian whose flaws, vulnerabilities, and morality humanizes him, the Man of Steel’s incorruptible nature might feel one-dimensional to fans, making Batman’s appeal greater than his DC colleague. And so while fans enjoy the many interpretations of Batman, often dark and grittier ones where Gotham’s protector is often battling his dilemmas while simultaneously protecting the city, Superman is supposed to have his core values intact and consistent all the time.
While both characters have their unique appeal and draw, Nolan’s comments in no way slander Superman. Yet, the director’s comments reflect why Batman is more famous than Superman, highlighting the areas where the Kryptonian lacks while the Earthling does not.
