Ben Affleck Confirmed To Direct Solo Batman Film

A new standalone Batman franchise has been talked about ever since Christopher Nolan's trilogy was winding down, but Warner Bros. understandably wanted to put some distance between them. With Ben Affleck agreeing to play the Caped Crusader in 'Batman v Superman', plus his extensive history with Warner Bros., it was no surprise when his name was mentioned to possibly direct a new solo Batman film. With Affleck recently turning in a screenplay he co-wrote along with Geoff Johns, it seemed that some kind of announcement was imminent, and now it has finally arrived.

Today at Cinemacon Warner Bros. chief Kevin Tsujihara revealed they are working with Affleck on a solo Batman movie. Tsujihara didn't elaborate even as the actor took the stage, but a press release from the studio confirmed that Affleck will direct. What isn't clear is where the film will fit into WB's ambitious 10-film slate over the next five years. Those movies include two Justice League films, plus Wonder Woman, The Flash, Cyborg, Aquaman, and Green Lantern Corps.

Affleck has directed two successful movies for Warner Bros; The Town and Best Picture winner Argo. He also has the Dennis Lehane adaptation Live by Night on the way. He's the studio's golden boy, and chances are they are going to give him all the creative freedom he needs to make this the best Dark Knight movie possible, especially in light of the negative response and dwindling box office of 'Batman v Superman'. [Variety]