The Batman sequel starring Robert Pattinson is set to start filming in March 2024. The rumor mill has already begun churning. The latest bit is the introduction of Dick Grayson aka the first Robin.
Is it too Early?
Yes, it is too early for Robin, but maybe not so much for Dick himself. Bruce is still fleshing out his Bat-persona and his Bat-world. Robin needs to come into a more seasoned Batman. That doesn’t mean we need to wait for Robert to catch up to Ben, but rather have grown more into the role. At this point he would not want to bring anyone else into this world.
So then How?
Dick and his family need to be introduced in the second installment. The Grayson’s could meet Bruce and fascinate him with the acrobatic skills. Skills he could use. As the friendship blossoms, we as the audience will develop a relationship as well with the flying family.
The final showdown should be at the circus, where the villain or villains enter and kill the Grayson in front of Dick and Bruce. And sure, Bruce puts on the cowl and saves the day. But later returns at the very end to adopt Dick.
It not a complicated arc, but one that allows us the audience to not only mourn the loss but feel, really feel Dick’s pain. Robin and his lust for vengeance can be born and quelled in the third movie (you know there will be one)
Sweet and Slow
We have had a Robin and half in previous movies. And while we got a decent Robin in Batman Forever, we were too caught in the awe of having a Live Action Robin to realize his story did not have heart. Then Not-so-Robin came along with so much potential, and it all ended.
We need a slow burn, Robin. Someone we can grow with. Again, introducing him early as just a person gives us the chance to view his change into the hero. It also allows Bruce to develop some normal human connections, only to have them stripped away.
This will allow to Bruce to question if what he is doing is the right thing. Is he helping Gotham or is he turning it into a bigger nightmare? With Bigger and more bad villains.
Villains
The villain who kills the Grayson is important. Freeze is being pegged to return to the big screen. His greyness in his villainy will be refreshing and take the Dark Knight in a very different path. It will force Bruce to review how he sees villains and be the reason why he spares so many in future.
It is also why he cannot be the only villain. There must be another. A much more linear big bad. One who we can direct our anger to without remorse. The dual dynamic will make for some interesting viewing as Batman and Bruce must fight to very different threats simultaneously. The emotional journey that he must go through will further forge his destiny…
