So, which of the modern men best portrays the Dark Knight on screen? Between Michael Keaton, Val Kilmer, George Clooney, and Christian Bale, who best fills the Caped Crusader’s shoes? 

Michael Keaton was the first in the modern grouping to play Batman. Many people were disappointed when they first found out that he was cast as the lead in the 1989 film. At that point Keaton had starred in mostly comedic roles, and many felt he lacked the credibility to play the dark hero. But after film fans saw trailers of his capabilities under the mask, their attitudes changed. Though he is a funny man, Keaton possesses a dark side, evident through the nasty villain he played in Desperate Measures. His comedic background helped him bring a playful aspect to Batman, without venturing into campy territory. Unfortunately, he’s not as smooth as other Batmans, looking out of place in the Wayne mansion, he makes a crack about Vicky Vale’s weight, and he lets Catwoman cloud his judgment, apologizing for hitting her, which leads to getting claws in his ribcage.

When Keaton decided not to reprise the role of Batman in Batman Forever (1995), the fair haired Val Kilmer took his place. Kilmer was definitely the best choice to play Batman when Robin was introduced into the series. His natural warmth led Bruce Wayne into a sympathetic, brotherly relationship with the newly orphaned Dick Grayson. He also gives the most intelligent portrayal of Batman solving problems with the Riddler by using his brain as much as his fists. However, along with that natural warmth, Kilmer made Batman more vulnerable. He was scarred by the death of his parents, and played it with more sympathy than vengeance.

Next up was George Clooney in the critically cold shouldered Batman & Robin (1997). Clooney was the best at playing Bruce Wayne. His natural charisma wafts through all of his characters like Poison Ivy’s pheromone dust. And, while he may be the oldest looking Batman with his peppered gray hair, Clooney’s natural playboy persona shone through, making the character of Bruce Wayne feel younger and livelier. Unfortunately, this also led to his greatest downfall. The boyishness gives Clooney charm, but it led to school yard fights with Robin over Poison Ivy. He also wasn’t as enveloped by Batman’s past, as the other actors, taking away from the symbolism of who Batman is.

That brings us to the most recent Batman, Christian Bale. After the campy Batman & Robin, the team of Bale and director Christopher Nolan in Batman Begins (2005) was a welcome refresher for fans of the Dark Knight. As a very serious actor, Bale makes for an impressive Batman. Physically speaking, he is the toughest Batman, leading to some really powerful onscreen fight scenes. He plays the most brooding Bruce Wayne, combining a need for vengeance from his past with a genuine desire to protect Gotham City. However, his commitment to the dark side of the Dark Knight makes him less likeable. He’s definitely the guy you want protecting you, but not the one you’ll feel empathetic toward. 

All four men gave something great to Bruce Wayne, the man, and Batman, the hero. Check out these videos of Michael Keaton, Val Kilmer, George Clooney, and Christian Bale as the Caped Crusader. Then watch this Batman vs. Batman fan video and decide who the best Batman is. 

Once you’ve decided who your favorite is, email samanda@gemstonepub.com to let us know who, and why. 

The newest installment in the Batman lexicon, The Dark Knight, premieres in theaters next Friday, July 18, 2008. Directed by Christopher Nolan, the film stars Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, Aaron Eckhart, and Maggie Gyllenhaal.