‘There’s No Thought Put Into The Human Being’: Ben Affleck Explains Why He ‘Hated’ Wearing His Batman Costumes

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To date, Ben Affleck has held the longest role as Batman in live-action films, appearing as the Caped Crusader in “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice”, both versions of “Justice League”, “The Flash” (as well as a cameo in “Suicide Squad”). Recently, Affleck spoke candidly about his experience playing Batman in the DC Extended Universe, and today we’re focusing on the downsides. Specifically, Affleck discussed why he disliked wearing the Batsuits, which makes me empathize with him as he elaborated on this difficult aspect of the job.

During an interview for GQ, Affleck was asked about his favorite movie roles, and specifically mentioned the Batsuit he wore in “The Flash” (available for streaming with a Max subscription). This question sparked him to express his frustration over having to wear these costumes, starting by discussing his discomfort while donning them.

I found the Batsuits unbearable. They’re not only uncomfortable but also lack proper ventilation, making them extremely hot to wear. It seems like their appearance is prioritized over practicality, with little consideration given to the person wearing them. Consequently, I would end up sweating profusely in this suit, especially since I tend to get warm easily. The cowl, which covers the head, doesn’t help matters as it further traps heat, making the situation even more uncomfortable. It’s one thing to wear the suit, but once the headpiece is added, the heat seems to escape, amplifying the discomfort.

Absolutely, it doesn’t seem enjoyable at all. Just imagining myself donning that bulky Batman suit makes me feel a bit warm. You see, Ben Affleck would have sweated profusely just wearing the Batsuit casually. However, the Batman we’re discussing isn’t just walking around; he’s running and punching, which undoubtedly intensifies the perspiration. Affleck further added:

In simpler terms, even the most skilled athletes such as stunt performers, parkour artists, and action heroes could only perform for about 45-50 minutes before risking heatstroke. This made filming challenging because of the intense heat.

I’m genuinely concerned about Ben Affleck’s stunt doubles during those DC films. Let’s hope there were people ready with water to keep everyone in the Batman suit well-hydrated, and medical personnel on standby, in case anyone fainted or needed immediate attention. In closing, Affleck mentioned:

Even though I’d love to feel heroic in this moment, exhaustion and sweat quickly take over, leaving me longing for a break. It feels more like, ‘No, let’s continue, I’m fine, everything’s good.’ And then my brow seems to be streaming with sweat, as if black eyeliner has been running down my face.

Later on, Ben Affleck reflected that his fellow Batman actors, Christian Bale and Robert Pattinson, seemed to handle the Batsuit better than him. He admitted that he found wearing the suit to be the least enjoyable aspect of portraying the character. His Batman costume was noticeably larger and bulkier compared to the suits worn by his predecessors and Pattinson, which might have made the experience less comfortable for him. While I can’t confirm if it led to more sweating, the size difference likely added to the discomfort.

Lucky for Ben Affleck, he won’t have to put on the Batman suit anymore… unless he chooses to revisit the character later in life like Michael Keaton did in The Flash, but let’s worry about that when it happens. For now, Robert Pattinson is our big-screen Batman, and another actor will step into the role for the DC Universe film The Brave and the Bold. As a dedicated cinema enthusiast, I can’t wait to see who takes on this iconic character next!

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2025-04-18 01:43