Robert Pattinson shares an amusing detail about George Clooney’s Batman suit, and a comparison of their vastly different takes on the Dark Knight.
Several talented actors have played Batman over the decades, and each had their own take on the masked vigilante of Gotham. Fans of the caped crusader would be more than eager to know a behind-the-scene tidbit involving actors who’ve donned the suit before, i.e., Robert Pattinson and George Clooney.
Robert Pattinson in The Batman | Warner Bros. Pictures
Pattinson is the latest addition to the Bat-legacy, and the actor shared one detail about Clooney that wouldn’t surprise you, but it’s interesting nonetheless. So let’s take a look at this anecdote and understand how both these actors were entrusted with different versions of the role.
Robert Pattinson shares an interesting detail about George Clooney
George Clooney in Batman & Robin | Warner Bros. Pictures
Robert Pattinson starred in 2022 The Batman helmed by Matt Reeves, and as per his interview with Esquire, the actor had to go through a grueling tradition. Basically, he had to try out Batman suits worn by actors who had portrayed Gotham’s savior before him.
When I did the audition for Batman I had to try on all the different cowls [from actors who’d played the role]. Even from 20 years ago, they all still had the scent of each individual actor. It’s kind of strange.
He highlighted that each suit had a distinct smell, and also connected it with the experience of being sealed inside a leather mask, making the actor anxious. He described it to be an “emotional scent” and revealed that George Clooney’s suit smelled the best.
Pattinson’s story offers us a humorous glimpse into the legacy of the Batman actors and also shows just how difficult it must be to wear the superhero’s outfit. The actors must the feelings of discomfort, suffocation, sweating, and sometimes even the weight of the suit.
Robert Pattinson vs. George Clooney: Two very different Batman
Robert Pattinson in The Batman | Warner Bros. Pictures
Robert Pattinson and George Clooney are two actors who’ve represented Batman in wildly different ways. Clooney starred in Batman & Robin, a film that had campy humor and a more playful tone, but the critical reception for the same was poor. From the infamous suit design to the actor’s portrayal of Batman, most things were disliked by the viewers.
On the other hand, Pattinson’s Batman was darker and grittier than ever because that’s how Reeves wanted to approach the story. His version is much younger and less evolved, one that is emotionally vulnerable and still hasn’t developed his Bruce Wayne persona.
Clooney’s Batman aimed to entertain a larger audience but Pattinson’s iteration was more about the dark side of Gotham, and its noir aesthetics. Fans resonated more with the latter, even though there were some doubts about casting the Twilight actor due to his fame from the vampire saga. But in the end, it seemed like Pattinson was tailor-made for the role.
The Batman is available to stream on HBO Max.