Behind Batman Returns: In a recent interview with IndieWire, Daniel Waters, the screenwriter behind Batman Returns, shed light on the creative process behind the film, addressing the substantial alterations made to established characters and their backstories.
Released as the sequel to Tim Burton’s 1989 Batman, Batman Returns saw Michael Keaton reprising his role as the Dark Knight and introduced reimagined versions of Penguin and Catwoman, portrayed by Danny DeVito and Michelle Pfeiffer, respectively. These interpretations diverged significantly from the original comic book depictions, a departure that drew attention and criticism from fans at the time. Waters revealed that these deviations stemmed from their limited familiarity with the source material, lacking a profound understanding of Batman’s universe.
Reflecting on the film’s conception, Waters recalled, “It was a peculiar assignment; our sole aim was to satisfy Tim Burton. Pre-internet, there was no need to justify or explain; it was simply two minds collaborating. We were clueless about Batman’s rogues’ gallery… The comic book realm was alien to us. I only just discovered that DC Comics stood for Detective Comics.”
Discussing the evolving perception among fans over time, Waters noted, “Batman Returns faced backlash from die-hard Batman enthusiasts, questioning why we were diverging so early into the cinematic series. But now, with the plethora of Batman films, opinions have shifted: ‘Hey, that was rather intriguing.'”
Waters also disclosed his discontent with the preceding Batman film, bluntly expressing his dissatisfaction: “The original movie sucks,” a sentiment that informed his initial script for Batman Returns. The script featured moments criticizing the earlier film, including an alternate opening scene that mocked the exploitation of Batman merchandise. However, Keaton, advocating for a different direction, advised Waters to excise these elements from the script.
“Michael Keaton saw the wit in it and said, ‘This is clever. But cut it,'” Waters recalled, highlighting Keaton’s influence on shaping the script.
Batman Returns marked Tim Burton’s second directorial contribution to the franchise before Joel Schumacher took the helm for subsequent films. Keaton declined to reprise his role in the latter films, but recently returned as Batman in The Flash. While rumors circulated about DeVito’s Penguin and Pfeiffer’s Catwoman appearing in the newer film, those speculations didn’t materialize
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Our Reader’s Queries
Why was Batman Returns controversial?
The film Batman Returns sparked controversy because of its intense violence and grim subject matter, leading to criticism from those who found it disturbing and bleak.
Why wasn t two face in Batman Returns?
Tim Burton made the choice to leave out Harvey Dent in order to make the sequel more distinct from Batman. Despite the expectation that Christopher Walken’s corrupt businessman character, Max Shreck, would take on Harvey’s role, it seems that this was not the case.
Why did Tim Burton leave Batman?
Burton departed due to his perception that the studio lacked interest in him at Warner Bros. Although it was clear that the studio had different intentions after the mixed response to Batman Returns, Burton still held discussions with Warner Bros. regarding a potential third installment.
Why wasn t Michael Keaton in Batman Returns?
Michael Keaton left the Batman franchise after clashing with Joel Schumacher over how to portray Bruce Wayne. Val Kilmer also decided to step away from the role of Batman, feeling unappreciated and facing disagreements with Schumacher.