9. The Father Figure Commissioner: Martin Sheen
Sticking with the idea of a much older Gordon, the concept of Gordon as part of Batman's moral compass can be easily used. Never one to back down from telling the World's Greatest Detective when he's being too analytical and not doing his job well enough, Gordon can provide a much needed example of positive parenting. After all, Man of Steel seemed to go out of its way to undermine Clark Kent's traditional moral center. Jonathan Kent was reduced to an uncharitable, possessive coward, unable to accept that his adopted son may have more to offer the world than just hiding away in Kansas. Perry White was hardly concerned with the truth at all costs, and didn't seem the kind of man who might inspire a hero to greatness in pursuit of Truth, Justice and the American Way. Sheen's got previous experience here, however; he was a commissioner in The Departed and even the President in The West Wing, and both showed how he could bring a steely firmness to a role whilst still maintaining the charm and warmth of a kindly grandfather. So, there's an opening for the kind of homespun wisdom that Sheen is perfect at delivering. As the success of the Spider-Man franchise has shown us, a hero is only as good as his values. As Uncle Ben in The Amazing Spider-Manm he lit up the screen, and he could do a perfect job reminding Batman of why he continues to fight, even against the overwhelming odds of a Kryptonian space God.