Following Ben Affleck‘s recent stepping down as director of Warner Bros. Pictures’ upcoming The Batman, the studio has today set a replacement. Variety reports that Matt Reeves, the helmer behind Cloverfield, Let Me In, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes & the upcoming War for the Planet of the Apes, will be The Batman director!
“There are certain characters who hold a special place in the hearts of millions,” Affleck wrote in his recent statement. “Performing this role demands focus, passion and the very best performance I can give. It has become clear that I cannot do both jobs to the level they require. Together with the studio, I have decided to find a partner in a director who will collaborate with me on this massive film. I am still in this, and we are making it, but we are currently looking for a director. I remain extremely committed to this project, and look forward to bringing this to life for fans around the world.”
Warner Bros. Pictures then added: “Warner Bros. fully supports Ben Affleck’s decision and remains committed to working with him to bring a standalone Batman picture to life.”
Reeves had been reported as a likely candidate for The Batman director job when Affleck stepped down.
In The Batman, Affleck will face off against Joe Manganiello, who will play Slade Wilson, aka Deathstroke, in the film. Additional appearances by Jeremy Irons as Alfred and J.K. Simmons as Commissioner Gordon are expected to happen as well.
An official release date for The Batman, written by Affleck and Geoff Johns, hasn’t been set. Affleck will next appear as Batman in Justice League, opening in theaters on November 17.
