The Batman is one of the most highly anticipated films of 2022. With numerous delays due to COVID-19 and multiple teaser clips being released, fans are eager to witness the tense battle between Batman and the Riddler on the big screen. Now, with the release date steadily approaching, director Matt Reeves has revealed his thought process behind the creation of the Riddler, insisting “he’s not just a serial killer.”
Based on the DC Comics, The Batman is set in the superhero’s (Robert Pattinson) second year of fighting crime in Gotham, as he unveils corruption and attempts to take down an infamous serial killer named the Riddler (Paul Dano). Reeves decided to portray this character as a killer rather than the typical criminal mastermind and talked about using the movie as an opportunity to delve into the origins of the characters that surround Batman, particularly when it came to this notorious murderer.
The award-winning director’s initial inspiration for the Riddler came from his fascination with costumes and the ability they have to withhold one’s identity “I read Mindhunter. It made me think of the Zodiac killer, and how he actually wore this primitive costume that really is a primitive superhero costume,” Reeves said while speaking to Total Film. Similar to the complex case of the Zodiac killer, Dano’s character leaves behind a trail of riddles and clues after his murderous sprees, tormenting Batman to near insanity as he works to put an end to the Riddler's rampage. However, despite this, Reeves insists there is more to Riddler than just a killer. “The whole point of it was to put [Batman] on the path of trying to solve a mystery that was not only going to reveal the history of the city, and why it’s so corrupt, but that also is going to turn at a point, and become actually quite personal.”
Evidently, it is clear that this upcoming depiction of the Riddler is not just going to take the form of a mindless torturer, as there will be depth to this character that has never before been seen. Dano, who is known for more indie movies, spoke about his excitement to play such an iconic role, stating, “It’s one of the few times when there’s a really kind of shocking [feeling of], ‘I can’t believe that I get to do this.'” The actor studied the part by sitting in coffee shops and reading books about serial killers, as he found reading this type of material in public to be disturbing. While not giving too much away, Dano promised fans that The Batman would present a new perspective on his character and provide a “shockingly powerful” thrill for the audience.
Reeves' recently released clip of the Riddler’s funeral attack provided a clear look into the tense relationship fans can expect from Batman and his nemesis. The promise of eye-grabbing action, along with a star-studded cast including Zoe Kravitz and Colin Farrell, has given fans plenty to look forward to. There is no doubt that this addition to the DC universe will break conventions, retelling the iconic story of Batman in a film that will send waves of excitement around the world.
The Batman is set to be released March 4th 2022
Source: Total Film
