The wave of love that greeted Michael Keaton for his comeback role in Birdman feels long overdue. Despite being a gifted actor, he definitely struggled to shake the character off once he left the role. Its hard to imagine now, but when he was cast fans hated the idea. He was best known for comedy, and the fear was the movie would be along the lines of the 60's TV show. But Keaton was more than up to the task. For one, he understood that Bruce Wayne and Batman are two different characters. His Bruce Wayne is a dweeb, a socially awkward loner who isnt even recognised at his own party. Hes uncomfortable around women and hes not physically imposing in the least, so its easy to see why nobody in Gotham would peg him as the caped crusader. But when he dons the Batsuit, he transforms completely. He becomes a terrifying otherworldly creature; faster and stronger. He rarely speaks, and when he does its noticeably different from Bruce's voice. Hes also a lot more comfortable as Batman than Bruce Wayne. Contrast this with George Clooneys take. The only notable difference between his Batman and Bruce Wayne is that one of them wears a silly rubber outfit. Theres no change in voice or demeanour, no switch in personality. Its just George Clooney, looking slightly embarrassed. And Christian Bale's Batman mostly sounded like he had a sore throat. Keaton also had the sense to duck out of Batman Forever, even when promised an enormous payday. He saw the hell of neon lighting that was coming, and decided it wasnt worth ruining the respect hed built up. While other actors have done great things with the part, he still remains the best big screen take on the character. Do you agree that Tim Burton's Batman movies are the best or that Michael Keaton is the most iconic Batman? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
