The possibility of Robert Pattinson joining the DC Universe as Batman is once again at the center of fan discussions, as DC Studios shapes its new direction under James Gunn. As upcoming films like The Brave and The Bold remain in development, the Robert Pattinson DCU Batman Potential continues to be a popular topic, with audiences eager to see how his version might intersect with David Corenswet’s Superman and the evolving franchise landscape.
Ongoing Speculation Around Batman’s Role in the DC Universe
Debate surrounding who will embody the next DCU Batman grows as James Gunn’s superhero reboot takes form. The Brave and The Bold is still in development, with fans curious about casting choices and the potential for Robert Pattinson’s interpretation to merge with the main DC cinematic world. The distinct vision of his Batman, first seen in 2022, has kept his take relevant as new iterations are planned for the franchise.
Insights from Mike Flanagan at Motor City Comic Con
During the ScreenRant Midnight Mass panel at Motor City Comic Con 2025, renowned horror filmmaker Mike Flanagan, director of the upcoming Clayface film, addressed questions about Pattinson’s potential as the DCU’s Batman. Flanagan responded,
Of course, yeah. I gotta be careful. I know DC fans, especially, I don’t want to get on anyone’s bad side with this kind of stuff, because James Gunn is running DC his way, and I think it’s great.
— Mike Flanagan, Filmmaker.
He clarified that he does not have detailed knowledge of the DCU’s plans, stating,
I have no idea what the plan is for any of that. I do know, though, that Matt Reeves is a creative powerhouse.
— Mike Flanagan, Filmmaker. Flanagan praised Robert Pattinson’s performance, highlighting how audiences responded strongly to his 2022 debut as the Caped Crusader.
Praise for Matt Reeves and the Gotham Universe
Flanagan voiced admiration for Matt Reeves’ cinematic vision, stating,
I think the world in the Gotham that he built is wonderful. I think The Penguin works on the big screen and on television.
— Mike Flanagan, Filmmaker. He expressed confidence that integrating different Gotham elements within the broader DC Universe is possible:
I do think there is a way to harmonize all of these elements into the DC Universe, which I think is what James is doing in his way.
— Mike Flanagan, Filmmaker.
He continued to show faith in James Gunn’s leadership, explaining,
The thing is, I trust James, and he has not let me down as a fan. So I’m excited to see how they pulled this off, and how it could all connect, the ways it could all connect, that’s up to them.
— Mike Flanagan, Filmmaker. Flanagan expressed personal appreciation for being involved in the Gotham world:
just really grateful that I got to be a very small part of a very small corner of Gotham. That’s like a childhood dream of mine.
— Mike Flanagan, Filmmaker.
Future of Batman and Clayface in DC Studios’ Plans
While speculation around Robert Pattinson DCU Batman Potential remains, James Gunn has stated that the upcoming DCU film slate, Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters, will feature a new actor in the Batman role, with Pattinson’s ongoing franchise being categorized as an Elseworlds project led by Matt Reeves. The script for The Brave and the Bold is not finished, and casting decisions have not yet begun, leaving the Batman question open.
Meanwhile, The Batman – Part II is set to start filming in 2026, aiming for a release date of October 1, 2027. Fans will be introduced to an expanded Gotham through other upcoming DC properties, including Flanagan’s Clayface. Clayface wrapped filming on November 1, 2025, as confirmed by Tom Rhys Harries, and is set for a theatrical release on September 11, 2026.
Clayface’s Cast and Upcoming Release
The Clayface film promises to add depth to Gotham’s narratives within the DC Universe, featuring Tom Rhys Harries, Naomi Ackie, and Eddie Marsan in major roles. Their performances are anticipated to draw audiences into a new perspective of Gotham City, even as larger questions about Batman’s role and casting remain unresolved.
The continued debate over Robert Pattinson’s place in the DC Universe signals intense interest in Batman’s future and shows the impact of Matt Reeves’ creative leadership. With audiences, creators like Mike Flanagan, and actors including Tom Rhys Harries, Naomi Ackie, and Eddie Marsan all contributing to the evolving Gotham landscape, DC’s cinematic future will be watched closely as developments unfold.
