The internet almost went into meltdown last week when Ben Affleck was confirmed as the face behind the cowl in future Batman movies, starting with 2015’s Batman vs. Superman. So to commemorate this news, we thought we’d look at some of the best films from the actors who have become Bruce Wayne on film. So as usual, if you’re at a loose end this weekend, why not try one of these:
3:10 to Yuma
Christian Bale brought Batman back to the screen in the now legendary Dark Knight Trilogy. One of his less well known films from recent years is the 3:10 to Yuma, a western directed by James Mangold (whose Wolverine is currently in cinemas) and starring Russell Crowe as an outlaw alongside Bale’s small-time rancher. Bale has to deliver Crowe to the titular 3:10 train to court in Yuma, and a battle of wills between the two men takes centre stage. Commentaries and making-of documentaries complete the Blu-ray package.
Beetlejuice
The original big screen Batman is Michael Keaton, and arguably his next most famous role is Beetlejuice, a devious “bio-exorcist” who advises a recently deceased couple (played by Alec Baldwin and Geena Davis) on how to rid their former home of its new inhabitants. Directed by Tim Burton, Beetlejuice is a firm fan favourite whose bold visuals hold up well on Blu-ray. Talk of a possible sequel continues, so this might not be the last you see of Beetlejuice…
Argo
With apologies to other Batman alumni Val Kilmer and George Clooney, we felt Ben Affleck’s Argo had to be the final inclusion in this week’s list. Showered with critical acclaim and lots of awards, including this year’s Oscar for Best Picture, Argo tells the tale of six Americans stuck in Iran during the 1979 revolution. CIA exfiltration expert Tony Mendez (Affleck) devises a cunning plot to get them out of the country – pose as a Canadian film crew scouting locations for a new science fiction film called Argo. If you haven’t seen it yet, the Blu-ray is the perfect way to experience it – with an exclusive longer cut of the film featuring scenes cut from the theatrical release. Let’s hope Affleck has the same success in his role as the Caped Crusader.
