Dream Casting: The Batman

Dream Casting is an imaginative look at the casting process of potential Hollywood projects based on comics and other media. This isn't just about what is being made; this is about what should be made, and who we think should be the stars.

We recently learned that the next Batman movie, The Batman, will be out in 2021, and that Ben Affleck is definitely not starring in it. Beyond that, we don't know much. So I've decided to start from scratch and cast my idea of a great Batman movie.

One thing I wanted to do is give Batman an adopted family of younger crimefighters, since that's one of the things fans like about the comics that has never really made it to a movie. I also recast the Joker, Alfred, and Jim Gordon because I think that makes sense if you're replacing Bruce, but I didn't cast a new Harley Quinn because it seems like Margot Robbie owns that part now.

Here we go.

Oscar Isaac (Ex Machina, Star Wars: The Last Jedi) has the perfect look for Bruce Wayne, he's experienced with action, and he's one of the best actors working today. He's hands-down the best possible Batman pick.

Jacob Anderson (Game of Thrones) might have to work on his American accent, but he can match the physicality and charisma of Dick Grayson like few actors of his generation could.

It's about time there was a Batman movie with Robin in it, and Lachlan Watson (Chilling Adventures of Sabrina) will put a new spin on the character while simultaneously looking exactly like the classic version.

Kevin Doyle (Downton Abbey) has experience playing a butler and the acting skills to play one as well-developed as Alfred.

I'm standing by the choice of Emma Roberts (American Horror Story) from when I cast the Batgirl movie, a project we sadly haven't heard much about since Joss Whedon quit.

Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad) is so perfect on every level for the part of Jim Gordon that it's a crying shame he hasn't played him in live action yet.

Zachary Quinto (Star Trek Beyond) has the good lucks and easy charisma to play Harvey Dent, and he can also be terrifying as Two-Face in a sequel.

Ansel Elgort (Baby Driver) will be perfect as the bitter, alienated former Robin who's since become a much more dangerous vigilante.

Micheal Pitt (Funny Games) has built a career playing creepy, off-balance, and dangerous characters, and I think he's ready to play the ultimate version of that archetype as the Joker.

Stephanie Beatriz (Brooklyn Nine-Nine) seems more than ready to make the transition to movie star, and she'll be an absolutely perfect Selina Kyle.

Danny Glover (Sorry to Bother You) has an inherently trustworthy quality that will serve him well as Bruce's closest confidante at the Wayne company. He's also just a cool guy who's great in everything.