Robert Pattinson has explained why his version of Batman may not easily cross paths with the superheroes in James Gunn’s DC Universe. Pattinson plays Bruce Wayne in Matt Reeves’ The Batman, a darker interpretation of the character that exists separately from the interconnected DCU being developed by Gunn and Peter Safran.
Speaking to LADbible, Pattinson said it would be “tough” to place his version of Bruce Wayne into the wider DCU. His comments come as fans continue to speculate about a potential meeting between his Batman and David Corenswet’s Superman.
Pattinson Explains Why His Batman Feels Separate
Pattinson pointed to the distinctive filmmaking style and atmosphere surrounding Reeves’ The Batman as one of the biggest reasons a crossover could be difficult.
“I think it would be kind of tough to have this version of Bruce outside of that world,”
Pattinson said during the interview. He explained that the lengthy production and deliberately dark environment of The Batman had a significant effect on him.
The actor recalled spending months working in darkness, both literally and emotionally, while filming the movie. He said the experience stayed with him even after production ended.
“It does affect you,”
Pattinson explained.
“You feel strange afterwards.”
That approach is central to Reeves’ version of Batman, which presents Bruce as a young crimefighter operating in a grounded Gotham filled with corruption and psychological darkness. The 2022 film focused heavily on Batman’s detective work rather than immediately placing him alongside a larger collection of superheroes.
The Batman Part II Remains Separate From the DCU
Pattinson is set to return as Bruce Wayne in The Batman Part II, which is scheduled to arrive in theaters on February 18, 2028.
The sequel is expected to continue Reeves’ interpretation of Gotham rather than connect Pattinson’s Batman directly to Gunn’s DCU. Gunn’s interconnected universe is developing its own Batman project, The Brave and the Bold, meaning Pattinson’s version remains part of a separate continuity.
Pattinson has also teased that the sequel will take the story in an unexpected direction. He previously described it as “a real left turn” from the first film while saying that it remains connected to the atmosphere established by Reeves.
For now, fans should not expect Pattinson’s Batman to suddenly appear alongside Superman or other DCU heroes. His latest comments suggest that maintaining the distinctive tone of Reeves’ Gotham remains more important than forcing the character into a shared superhero universe.