In case you missed it, it has been revealed that Michael Keaton is currently in negotiations to reprise his role as Bruce Wayne in the upcoming DC Extended Universe flick The Flash. In addition to that, the Beetlejuice star is set to wear the classic Batman suit in the Ezra Miller film. But what could happen if Keaton decides against returning as the Caped Crusader? Interestingly, Warner Bros. already have a back-up plan and is planning to call on The Dark Knight actor Christian Bale to take on the role instead.
In late June, The Hollywood Reporter confirmed that Michael Keaton is in talks to join The Flash, which will be helmed by It: Chapter 2 director Andy Muschietti and will star Justice League actor Ezra Miller. According to the report, Keaton is expected to return as Bruce Wayne in the movie. Additionally, the character's role is said to be similar to that of Nick Fury in the Marvel Cinematic Universe films and that Bruce will serve as a mentor to Barry Allen. If this is so, it sounds like the DCEU flick will either completely recast Batman (who was originally played by Ben Affleck in Justice League) or the film will take place in an alternate universe.
Not surprisingly, the report also suggested that an appearance in The Flash is only the first of several possible projects for Michael Keaton. It was also stated that Keaton is expected to continue playing Bruce Wayne in other DC Extended Universe films. One of these movies happens to be the planned Batgirl film. In addition to that, it is believed that there will be a Batman Beyond live-action movie where Bruce finally recruits Terry McGinnis to take his mantle.
This certainly sounds like an amazing opportunity for Michael Keaton and fans are already expecting him to sign a contract with Warner Bros. However, if Keaton decides to turn down the role, the studio already have another candidate for The Flash. DCEU Mythic reports that Warner Bros. is planning to reach out to Christian Bale in case the deal with Keaton doesn't push through.
The idea of Christian Bale returning as Bruce Wayne is also a welcome one. After all, the Academy Award winner was impressive in Christopher Nolan's Dark Knight film trilogy. On the other hand, Bale might also be too young to play an older Batman. For now, it still looks like Michael Keaton is the best candidate for the role.
