James Gunn rose to fame after bringing The Guardians of the Galaxy to the big screen in 2014. At the time, the team was relatively unknown to the general audience, but the film was a major success. Gunn's popularity fluctuated over the years but gained traction when fans entrusted him with their beloved characters. This led to him directing the Guardians of the Galaxy sequel and ultimately being chosen to write and direct the third and final installment in the trilogy. However, Gunn's journey hit a snag when Disney chose to sever ties with him due to controversial tweets that resurfaced.
After working on projects for DC, Disney decided to bring back the talented director to complete the work he had started with Guardians of the Galaxy before ultimately allowing him to continue his career with DC. Now, Gunn finds himself facing criticism once again, this time for his comments about Tim Burton's 1989 Batman film. It's no secret that Batman fans are protective of their beloved superhero, so Gunn's remarks have stirred up some controversy. Notably, Gunn is currently involved in future Batman movies, which adds another layer to the situation. However, it's important to note that his opinion on the matter is not entirely unfounded.
James Gunn's Past Comments on Batman (1989)
James Gunn, the co-CEO of DC Studios, seems to have a negative opinion of Tim Burton's 1989 Batman film featuring Michael Keaton. In recently rediscovered Facebook comments, Gunn expresses some strong criticism towards the '80s comic book movie. Although the context of his comments is unclear due to the absence of the original post, his words remain unchanged.
In his initial comment, the director states:
Keaton indeed had an absurd voice. However, I would prefer enduring an absurd voice over enduring dreadful action sequences and acting that is barely deserving of the Batman TV show. It is evident that this response is in relation to the criticism faced by Christian Bale for his widely criticized voice while portraying Batman. The latter part of Gunn's statement further expounds:
I don't understand how you can believe that there are more similarities between Burton's Batman and Moore or Miller's Batman (including Joker) compared to Nolan's version. Let me make it clear, I do have issues with Nolan's films - I don't find either of them to be exceptional, and I don't even think Batman Begins is good. However, they are still much better than the original Batman.
This conversation seems to have taken place shortly after the release of The Dark Knight, with someone arguing that Keaton portrayed Batman better than Bale, and that Burton's Batman is superior to Nolan's.
Despite being the initial venture into a darker portrayal of Batman on screen, none of your arguments can diminish the fact that the movie is simply terrible. The unnecessary inclusion of Judge Dredd only adds to the confusion. Furthermore, Gunn criticized Jack Nicholson's performance in the film, suggesting that he merely replicated his character from The Shining, but with clown makeup. Gunn's most severe and thorough evaluation of Burton's film is evident in his concluding statement.
James Gunn is Entitled to His Opinion
The Tim Burton Batman is poorly written, the soundtrack is the worst work of everyone involved, and it is absolutely one of the most boring films ever. Not only that, but the reveal of the Joker as the killer of Bruce Wayne's parents spits in the face of Batman's origin, and is a nullification of the bottomless thirst for vengeance that necessarily drives Batman. It pretends not to be campy, but is completely so. And, on top of everything, the dark creature of the night can't even move his *** neck. Give me a *** break. It's a ridiculous, awful film. Burton's Planet of the Apes is genius in comparison.Rewritten content:
James Gunn is Entitled to His Opinion
This rendition of Tim Burton's Batman lacks compelling writing, and the soundtrack falls short of expectations. It ranks among the most tedious films to watch. Furthermore, the revelation that the Joker is responsible for Bruce Wayne's parents' demise contradicts Batman's iconic origin story, nullifying the relentless thirst for vengeance that drives him. It attempts to conceal its campiness but ultimately fails. Additionally, the Caped Crusader's inability to turn his *** neck further adds to the film's shortcomings. It is an absurd and dreadful piece of cinema. In comparison, Burton's Planet of the Apes is a true masterpiece.
It is crucial to bear in mind that everybody has the right to their own opinion regarding anything. James Gunn, however, distinguishes himself by substantiating his opinions with concrete examples, a skill that seems to have faded away among most social media users nowadays. Regardless of whether his views are agreeable or not, the interpretation of art remains subjective. Achieving unanimous agreement among an entire audience on matters of movies, TV shows, or comic book storylines is simply unattainable. As an illustration, there exists a significant fanbase that thoroughly enjoyed the "One More Day" storyline of Spider-Man.
James Gunn Isn't Necessarily Wrong About Batman
Gunn's past comments have caused some fans to lose faith in his role as co-CEO of DC Studios. However, these comments should actually inspire even more confidence. Gunn's critical and passionate stance on movies demonstrates his unwavering commitment to providing the best possible experience for audiences. It is far more advantageous to entrust the future of a cinematic universe to someone capable of skillfully identifying and addressing flaws in cinema, rather than simply conforming to popular opinions. DC movies are in dire need of an individual who dares to challenge conventional norms, and Gunn fits this role perfectly.
The impact of Batman '89 on many childhoods cannot be ignored, as it created a base of devoted fans for the character. Prior to Burton's depiction of Michael Keaton in the iconic suit, Batman had not been taken seriously in either film or television. The portrayals by Lewis Wilson, Robert Lowry, and Adam West were all comedic and far removed from the beloved Batman we know today. While it may be tough for fans to accept, Gunn's decade-old remarks about Keaton's Batman voice do hold some truth. It was equally as absurd as Bale's rendition.
Furthermore, Jack Nicholson's portrayal of the Joker lacks memorability, even going so far as to have the character's name be Jack. While some may find enjoyment in his performance for nostalgic reasons, it pales in comparison to the exceptional versions portrayed by Heath Ledger and Mark Hamill.
In addition, Gunn's argument about Joker's role in nullifying Batman's thirst for vengeance holds merit, as Batman ultimately kills Joker in the end. This signifies the completion of his task. Some may argue the same regarding Joe Chill in Batman Begins, but this comparison is flawed. Bruce does not personally kill Joe Chill, denying himself any personal resolution. Additionally, Nolan's film effectively explains the driving force behind Bruce's unwavering commitment to his crusade.
In comparison to Batman Begins and The Dark Knight, Batman's action sequences were lackluster, failing to portray Bruce as the master martial artist he is supposed to be. Keaton's restricted neck movement made his movements appear clumsy. Additionally, there was a noticeable campiness throughout the film, which can be attributed to Burton's style.
The fact remains that Gunn's opinion of the movie is not as far-fetched as social media is portraying it. It is important to consider that he deliberately cultivated an edgy persona in the past, and if he were to share his current opinion, it would likely be expressed more tactfully.
