Justice League’s cinematographer, Fabian Wagner, has shared a new behind-the-scenes image of Ben Affleck’s Batman on social media. Created by Bob Kane and Bill Finger, the character first debuted all the way back in 1939. Since then, he’s been adapted for screens both big and small by a myriad of actors. The translations have ranged from knowingly campy to extremely gritty. Affleck debuted as the character in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. He later reprised the role for a Suicide Squad cameo, and more prominently in Justice League.
After directing Man of Steel and its subsequent outing, Zack Snyder was immediately set to follow them up with the DCEU’s first official team-up movie. He ultimately had to step down midway into production, however, due to tragic circumstances. Directorial duties then passed to Joss Whedon (The Avengers), who helmed extensive reshoots and made numerous changes to the plot. In the wake of the film’s underwhelming reception, numerous fans joined forces to call for Snyder’s original version to be released. Many of the film’s stars have spoken out in favor of the campaign, including Aquaman actor, Jason Momoa. Most recently, Deadpool co-creator Rob Liefeld vowed to support the cause at NYCC.
Posting on Instagram, Wagner shared the image earlier today. Declaring that “Sunday’s are for bats” and that “every bat loves a good backlight”, the image has already garnered thousands of likes. Fans have also been vocal in their fondness for the shot. Wagner followed in the footsteps of Amir Mokri and frequent Snyder collaborator, Larry Fong, who served as the Director of Photography on Man of Steel and Batman v Superman, respectively. Wagner occupied that position on Justice League. Check out the full image below:
In recent years, Wagner has also worked on multiple episodes of Game of Thrones, including such acclaimed, battle-heavy episodes as “Hardhome” and “Battle of the Bastards”. He also worked on the recent cult favorite movie, Overlord, and contributed to episodes of BBC’s Sherlock - which starred Benedict Cumberbatch as the titular detective. Wagner recently expressed his own support of the “Snyder Cut” movement. He also previously declared that he was equally disappointed by all the changes made to the film.
This isn’t the first image released retroactively following Snyder’s departure from the DCEU. In May, the director himself shared an image of Cyborg in STAR Labs. Later in the month, the director also offered fans a glimpse as what would have been Silas Stone’s emotionally impactful death. Away from the tragedy of the Stone family, Snyder also teased an appearance of Uxas - the being that would one day grow to become the intergalactic tyrant known as Darkseid. This new image, however, is sure to add fuel to the fire regarding the “Snyder Cut” campaign.
It’s easy to see why. For all the criticisms levied as Snyder as a director, he and his various directors of photography are often able to capture some truly beautiful imagery. The admittedly simple shot of Batman is no exception. Known to primarily work in shadow and under the cover of darkness, the rare image of the Caped Crusader basked in rays of sunlight is sure to captivate fans. What context the moment served within the story and Snyder’s original plans for Justice League, however, will, for the time being, have to remain the subject of speculation.
More: Justice League: What HASN’T Been Revealed About the Snyder Cut Yet?
Source: Fabian Wagner/Instagram
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