As a long-time admirer of Michael Keaton and his illustrious career, I find myself continually inspired by his pragmatic approach to Hollywood. His unwavering understanding that it’s all a business first is a refreshing perspective, especially in an industry where emotions often run high.
Michael Keaton, in an interview with GQ magazine, expressed that he wasn’t extremely displeased when Warner Bros. cancelled the release of “Batgirl,” where he reprised his famous role as Batman alongside Leslie Grace in the lead character. The studio put the film on hold in August 2022 as a cost-saving measure. The movie, which had a budget of $90 million, was already filmed and in post-production when the call was made, surprising many in the industry. According to EbMaster’s report, the decision to scrap “Batgirl” was primarily driven by a tax incentive.
“Keaton expressed indifference about the film’s cancellation, saying, ‘I didn’t care one way or another. It was a big, fun project and I got a good paycheck,'”
He expressed his fondness for the directors Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah of “Batgirl,” stating, “They’re great people.” He also shared that he supports them, wishes them success, and believes they were upset, which in turn made him feel empathetic. In simpler terms, he likes them and hopes they do well.
The movie titled “Batgirl,” initially planned as one of two major comic book adaptations, had been earmarked for the comeback of Michael Keaton’s portrayal of Bruce Wayne/Batman, a character he originally played in Tim Burton’s 1989 “Batman” and later reprised in “Batman Returns” (1992). The other anticipated release was “The Flash,” which debuted theatrically by Warner Bros. in July 2023 but underperformed financially, earning just $271 million globally. Keaton shared his thoughts on the criticism that arose when he was cast as Batman back in the late ’80s, in an interview with GQ earlier this year. Reportedly, around 50,000 letters of disapproval were sent to Warner Bros. regarding the choice.
“At that moment, Tim expressed, ‘I want that man,’ and it’s still hard to comprehend the intensity of the reactions this simple statement elicited. However, Keaton noted, such boldness was indeed characteristic of him.”
In a recent interview with GQ, Keaton once more commended Burton as they collaborated again on the upcoming “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” movie, a highly anticipated sequel to the original 1988 film.
“Keaton praised Tim, stating he made an immense impact. Essentially, it’s hard to put into words, but it’s quite likely that the Marvel and DC universes wouldn’t exist as we know them today without Tim Burton. Despite facing skepticism and questioning along the way.”
It might come as a surprise to some of Keaton’s fans that he’s set to play Batman again in “Batgirl,” given his role was apparently driven by financial reasons. However, it aligns with his long-held view in Hollywood that it’s primarily a business. This perspective also explains why he wasn’t particularly enthused about the portrayal of his Oscar-nominated performance in “Birdman” (2014) as a career resurgence by the media.
“A truly brilliant individual, someone I held in high regard, commented, ‘The return is the essence,'” Keaton shared with GQ. However, my response was, ‘ frankly, it’s just not convincing.'”
Keaton, as mentioned earlier, continued his acting career unabated, consistently taking on roles to ensure a steady income. By the time “Birdman” hit theaters, he had already released four consecutive films over four years, with titles such as “RoboCop” and “Need for Speed”. Thus, it’s clear that he was neither absent nor out of public attention when “Birdman” garnered him Oscar recognition and applause.
“Keaton admitted that he considered fabricating a ‘return’ tale, but realized he would be lying whenever he discussed it. By the way, I should clarify that I understand business well, and I find it interesting. When people say, ‘This is a business,’ I don’t mind at all.”
“Keaton emphasized his career approach by saying, ‘I never feel panicked.’ He warned against the perils of becoming desperate in your pursuits, stating firmly, ‘Never be desperate. Desperation can lead to trouble. You might feel anxious and worried, thinking, ‘Gee, I’m not doing so well at the moment.’ But once you become desperate, it’s game over.”
Head over to GQ’s website to read Keaton’s latest profile in its entirety.
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2024-08-19 17:17