The Batman's Alfred Pennyworth, Andy Serkis, hints his iteration of the character will still be ex-SAS. Matt Reeves' The Batman is perhaps one of the most anticipated DC movies currently on the release calendar, and yet it's also one that has suffered more than a few setbacks. Production began about a year ago, but due to the coronavirus pandemic, it was suspended at various points throughout the year. The Batman just wrapped filming yesterday and is currently scheduled for March 2022. This is where it stands after being delayed twice from its original June 2021 date.
Starring Robert Pattinson as the titular hero, The Batman promises to introduce a brand new iteration of the character and the people around him. In addition to starring various members of Bruce Wayne's rogues gallery, such as the Penguin (Colin Farrell) and the Riddler (Paul Dano), The Batman will introduce a new version of his loyal butler/caretaker, Alfred. The Lord of the Rings and Planet of the Apes star Serkis will step into the iconic role this time around, and it sounds like he'll have some hidden depths.
While speaking to Comic Book Movie about his new film SAS: Red Notice, Serkis was asked if his character George Clements in that movie has any common ground with his Alfred. Unsurprisingly, Serkis couldn't outright confirm such a thing, but his answer certainly feels telling. "I mean, if I get into any sort of discussion about that, I’ll get taken out by someone, I’m sure," Serkis first said. With a laugh, he then added, "Yes, I think there probably might be some little bit of crossover, yeah, for sure. I can’t tell you any more."
Comics fans know Alfred has a history as a spy, recently shown in live-action form with the Epix series Pennyworth. With so much going on in The Batman, it seems unlikely that Alfred's past will get much attention in the film. However, fans can perhaps expect some knowing winks about what the butler got up to before he joined up with the Waynes. Additionally, there could always be room to explore Alfred's SAS past in a future project. It's already been confirmed The Batman will usher in a new Gotham universe, one that's already led to an HBO Max spin-off series focused on the Gotham City Police Department. There will be plenty of opportunities in the future to explore this fascinating part of Alfred's life.
While Serkis didn't explicitly confirm his Alfred in The Batman is ex-SAS, it seems likely he'll have those ties. This could enhance his relationship with Bruce in a meaningful way, as Alfred uses his experience to aid Bruce in this pivotal time. This is just another reason for fans to look forward to The Batman, which is shaping up to be a compelling look into the Caped Crusader mythos, as well as those around him.
Source: Comic Book Movie
