The Challenges of Wearing the Batsuit: Ben Affleck Opens Up
The conversation surrounding the conclusion of the Snyderverse, particularly in The Flash, has once again spotlighted Ben Affleck, known for his portrayal of Batman. In a candid interview with GQ, Affleck was asked whether the final version of the Batsuit he wore was his favorite. His response has since become a meme illustrating his exhaustion with the experience.
The Uncomfortable Reality of Superhero Costumes
“I mean, I hated the Batsuits,” Affleck candidly remarked. “The Batsuits are horrendous to wear.” This sentiment highlights a common issue with superhero costumes, which often blend the aesthetics of armored attire with the discomfort of unbreathable materials. Affleck elaborated, stating, “They’re hot, for one thing; they don’t breathe. They’re designed for visual appeal rather than human comfort.”
Heat and Exhaustion in the Suit
Affleck discussed how the heat generated while wearing the Batsuit was overwhelming. “You just start sweating. I sweat a lot as it is, so in that suit, I would just be pouring sweat because of the cowl,” he said. He explained that while wearing the suit itself was strenuous, adding the headpiece escalated the heat significantly. “Once you cover your head, all your heat escapes from there, and you really feel it.”
The Stunt Performers’ Struggles
Affleck credited the stunt performers who endured the most grueling hours in the Batsuit. “Even highly trained stunt guys, like parkour professionals, could only handle it for about 45-50 minutes before facing potential heatstroke,” he noted. “The suit’s heat made filming challenging, and feeling sweaty and exhausted didn’t help with the heroic facade.” He humorously added that hiding the sweat while insisting he was okay often felt less than heroic, especially with running eye black liner.
Reflecting on His Role
Despite the challenges, Affleck expressed gratitude for his time in the role. “Perhaps Christian [Bale] or Rob [Pattinson] were just better at dealing with it, but I found it to be the least enjoyable aspect,” he confessed. Nevertheless, he spoke fondly of his contribution to the DC Universe, beginning with his collaboration with Zack Snyder in Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice and the Snyder cut of Justice League.
Appreciation for the Snyder Cut
Interestingly, Affleck noted that the Snyder cut of Justice League has become his highest-rated movie on IMDb. “I think it’s because the Snyder cut truly reflects Zack’s vision. A director’s clear vision of their story often gets compromised for commercial expectations, but this version is very much what Zack wanted,” he explained. Affleck praised Snyder’s rare opportunity to revisit and fulfill his creative vision, a privilege not often afforded to directors.
Conclusion: A Complex Legacy
Ben Affleck’s experiences as Batman illustrate not only the physical challenges of playing a superhero but also highlight the deeper artistic elements involved in filmmaking. His reflections on the Batsuit and collaboration with Zack Snyder reveal a complex legacy that resonates within the DC Universe.
Want more io9 news? Stay updated on the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, and discover what’s next for the DC Universe in film and TV, along with everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why did Ben Affleck dislike the Batsuit?
Ben Affleck found the Batsuit uncomfortable due to its design, which prioritized aesthetics over wearability, causing him to sweat excessively and feel overheated during filming.
How did the heat affect Ben Affleck’s performance as Batman?
The heat and discomfort from the Batsuit made it difficult for Affleck and stunt performers to sustain stamina, impacting the overall filming experience and their portrayal of heroism.
What is the Snyder cut of Justice League?
The Snyder cut is a version of the film that represents director Zack Snyder’s original vision, released after significant fan demand for his approach compared to the theatrical version.
Did Ben Affleck enjoy his time in the DC Universe?
While Affleck faced challenges in the role, he appreciates his time in the DC Universe and recognizes the artistic contributions he made alongside director Zack Snyder.