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Batfleck's Canceled Movie's Batsuit Was Better Than BvS & Justice League

Writer Matthew Cannon

Ben Affleck's Batman looked admirably comic-accurate, but concept art for his canceled movie teases a better Batsuit that perfectly fits his story.

The Batsuit for Ben Affleck’s canceled Batman movie has been revealed – and it’s better than both Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice and Justice League. Affleck was originally set to write, direct and star in his solo Batman film, before retiring from the role and handing the reins to Matt Reeves. Although most attention is currently on Robert Pattinson’s vigilante in The Batman, concept art for Affleck’s Batsuit reveals one of the best versions that never was.

Reaction to Ben Affleck’s Batman v Superman casting was hardly stellar, but, like Michael Keaton before him, he proved he could deliver a compelling take on the Dark Knight. This older, world-weary Batman was controversial for his violence, but Affleck's performance was a clear highlight of the divisive blockbuster. Following the death of Superman (Henry Cavill), Batman stopped killing and sought redemption in Justice League.

The Batfleck movie was canceled, but concept art teases an updated Batsuit that would have perfectly suited the future of this Dark Knight. Moving away from the cloth suits of Batman v Superman and Justice League, Keith Christensen's artwork boasts an armored Batsuit with an improved chest symbol. Affleck’s unused Batsuit combines elements from various Batman designs, while still creating a unique aesthetic that’s more practical, supporting the Arkham-centric inspiration behind his scrapped film.

The Batman Ben Affleck Concept Art

Batman v Superman’s suit was already a refreshing departure from previous versions. Instead of rubbery all-black armor, Affleck’s Batsuit was a gray tri-weave bodysuit. The protective cloth-like fabric and small-eared cowl were ripped straight from The Dark Knight Returns, Zack Snyder's biggest inspiration. Conversely, the updated Batsuit for the canceled Batfleck movie took a different approach, with Christensen revealing it was comprised of “ballistic materials.” The armor shares similarities to Christian Bale’s Batman, especially with a neckpiece that would have provided Affleck greater mobility. However, this Batsuit is far less military-looking than that of Bale. The dark gray color and armor plating strapped over soft material resemble a more advanced version of Robert Pattinson’s homemade-looking Batsuit. The cowl effectively combines Snyder’s hi-tech internal design with longer, classic bat ears that, combined with the colors, ensure Affleck’s Batsuit still feels close to the comics. The best upgrade is, perhaps, the bat symbol. No longer a large block, the sleeker emblem represents Batman's post-Justice League rebirth as a more traditional hero.

Affleck’s canceled movie Batsuit is an exciting upgrade that illustrates his character’s natural progression. Every inch of the suit looks designed to reflect Batfleck’s 20 years of crimefighting, knowing exactly where to increase protection and improve his physical agility during battle. The Batsuit also feels better equipped to take on the heavily armored assassin Deathstroke (Joe Manganiello), who was to be the solo movie’s primary villain. The Batfleck movie also would have emphasized Arkham Asylum, with action reminiscent of the Arkham video games. The updated bat symbol clearly demonstrates this inspiration, and the overall suit would aid stealth and close-contact brawls if Ben Affleck's Batman were to face numerous inmates. The Batsuit is better than both versions worn in Justice League. Affleck's primary suit was simply a modified version of the one seen in Batman v Superman, but darker and with added musculature. However, it looks more like padding, especially in the daylight, as opposed to the hulking presence in the previous movie. The cowl also featured a more rounded facial structure. Meanwhile, his heavily armored tactical Batsuit resembled a bulkier version of Bale's suit.

Affleck was less intimidating, arguably fitting his Justice League story, but this might have detracted from the dark tone of his canceled movie. Ben Affleck's Batsuit in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice was fantastic, clearly reflecting his position as a frightening urban legend. However, his solo movie required a Batsuit capable of taking on the vengeful Deathstroke, and these upgrades would have provided the best protection without impacting stealth.

Next: Affleck's Flash Movie Response Shows How The DCEU Failed His Batman