The highly anticipated Matt Reeves Batman sequel has faced extensive delays since the first film’s release in 2022. Originally expected in 2026, the follow-up has now been pushed to October 2027, making fans wait over five years for the next chapter in this DC saga. Director Matt Reeves recently explained some of the reasons behind the extended timeline, highlighting the challenges involved in finalizing the script and preparing for production.
Behind the Scenes: Script Development and Production Plans
Director Matt Reeves shared with The Hollywood Reporter at the Emmys that the film is now entering its preparation phase, with shooting set for spring. He admitted that the process took longer than he initially hoped for a variety of personal and professional reasons. Reeves emphasized the importance of delivering the best possible script before moving forward.
We’re getting ready. We’re basically entering prep. We’ll be making the movie in the spring,
Matt Reeves, director
It’s been a journey that is taking longer than I would’ve wanted for a lot of reasons, a lot of personal reasons, but most important reason is getting it to a place where I just felt like it was the best script we could possibly write.
Matt Reeves, director
Reports indicate the script was completed around June 2025. Though details remain scarce, it is known that Colin Farrell, returning as Penguin, has read the script and will appear in a smaller role. Conversely, Cristin Milioti, who portrayed Sofia Falcone in the related television show, will not appear in the sequel.
Changes in Cast and Story Direction
At the Emmys, Reeves explained why Cristin Milioti’s character Sofia Falcone will be absent from the film. Even though he praised Milioti’s performance and Lauren LeFranc’s work on the character, the story had already progressed too far during the scripting process to include her without disrupting the narrative.
So, it’d be really exciting to do something with her,
Matt Reeves, director
But, she’s not in this one, in full disclosure, just because we were so far along in the story that it was like, ‘Oh gee, we could,’ it might upset the applecart, let’s say, given where the story goes, and what we were exploring. There are some things where it’s like, ‘Oh, we’d love to do this,’ but actually, that doesn’t fit within where the story goes.
Matt Reeves, director
Release Date and Future Expectations
The sequel’s theatrical release is scheduled for October 1, 2027. As fans await the next installment, the upcoming film will continue to build on the storylines set out in the first movie and the wider DC Universe, connecting to the ongoing DCU Chapter One storyline. Expectation remains high among fans and executives alike, who reportedly are enthusiastic about the current script’s quality and the direction the film is heading.
The extended development phase highlights the care and dedication Matt Reeves and DC Studios are investing to ensure the sequel lives up to expectations, balancing character development with broad narrative goals. This careful approach suggests the next Batman movie aims to be both a critical and fan success when it finally arrives in theaters.
All of my burning #Batman questions? @mattreevesLA answered ‘em – from #CristinMilioti’s future in the franchise to additional seasons of #ThePenguin.
📍: #Emmys with @joshuahorowitz pic.twitter.com/EFR5bwuawt
— MTV (@MTV) September 15, 2025
