First Look: Keaton in Costume as Batman for "The Flash"

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While the movie is called The Flash, let's be honest. People are there for the return of legendary Batman actor Michael Keaton who is returning in the cowl for the film that will draw inspiration from the popular DC comic book miniseries Flashpoint. As the fastest man alive clashes through multiple universes (and Batmen as Ben Affleck is also set to return along with Michael Shannon as General Zod), a lot has been discussed. One thing that seems confirmed is that Keaton is being touted as the Nick Fury of the DCEU with the actor set to appear as well in the upcoming Batgirl film. And today, the first official image of Keaton back in costume has been released. In short, it looks like he never left the role:

Keaton was famous for dropping out of the planned third Batman film back in the 1990's which eventually became Batman Forever and starred Val Kilmer in the role. Forever was notable for being more campy in Warner Bros. attempt to make the darker hero property more accessible to younger audiences. This, however, culminated in Batman & Robin a couple years after which derailed the franchise until Christopher Nolan's more realistic take in 2005, Batman Begins. Part of Keaton's reasons for leaving was also the loss of director Tim Burton who helmed the first two films as well as Keaton's desire to explore other projects. In irony, Keaton would ultimately be nominated for his first Oscar with the 2014 film Birdman in which he played an actor that mirrored many of his own career choices. Still, despite the fact Keaton has had a career revival in the last decade with critically acclaimed movies like Spotlight and The Founder along with shows like Dopesick, it's great to see him return for fans, many of which still think he's the best Batman that ever was on the big screen.

The Flash co-stars Ezra Miller, Ron Livingston, Kiersey Clemons, and Antje Traue. It is directed by Andy Muschietti and is set to hit theaters on June 23rd, 2023.