Batman *is* a dark and tormented anti-hero.
Only Bale ever brought his soul to light.
The Batman franchise has suffered over the years from a serious case of MPD, never being able to decide whether batman is comical (West, Keaton) a sexually ambiguous narcissist (Kilmer, Clooney) or a deadly serious deeply troubled anti-hero (Bale.) The final case Bale, being the only instance of bringing really quality character acting to the role.
In choosing Affleck for the latest incarnation, the producers of Batman seem to have gone “green” choosing an “actor” whose typecast is so wooden that he could easily be mistaken for a tree.
Perhaps they will complete the meme by altering Batman’s trademark head gear to resemble that most ubiquitous of forest by-products - a paper bag.
What’s that Ben? You have a opinion about something?
(In the words of Kilmer’s Doc Holliday) I’m sorry. I forgot you were there. You may go now.
Batman *is* a dark and tormented anti-hero.
Only Bale ever brought his soul to light.