The Batman fans need not fear Ben Affleck’s return as Gotham’s caped crusader, as it won't affect Robert Pattinson’s version of the character. Pattinson was cast by Matt Reeves to play the classic hero in the upcoming DC Extended Universe film. The movie has been described as a film noir and will show Batman’s detective work in Gotham. Though Affleck has starred as the most recent version of Batman, many assumed Pattinson was the future of the franchise after Affleck's exit.

However, it was just revealed Affleck will be returning as Batman in the upcoming The Flash movie, which has brought up the question of whether this will affect Pattinson's Batman. In The Flash, Affleck will be joined by Michael Keaton, who played the character in the late '80s and early '90s. Their returns will be explained by the Flashpoint storyline director Andy Muschietti plans to adapt. In it, Barry Allen travels back in time to try to save his mother, only to create an alternate timeline. When Keaton's return was announced, most assumed it wouldn't affect Pattinson's Batman. However, as Affleck's portrayal is so recent (and takes place within the DCEU) his return is a little different.

Related:  Every Upcoming Ben Affleck Movie

Luckily, per The Wrap, The Batman won't be affected by Affleck's return in The Flash movie. What's more, Pattinson's take on the character is still seen as the future of the DCEU. This should reassure those excited about seeing Pattinson as Batman for years to come.

The Batman Robert Pattinson Batsuit Cape

This is a smart move on DC's part. Affleck’s Batman focuses mainly on the traditional aspects of the character, such as his ability to work with other superheroes and save the world. This version of Batman is different from what's known of Pattinson's take on the character. The Batman will diverge from traditional Batman films by focusing on the character’s detective work, showing a side of Bruce Wayne often only present in the comic books.

As such, Pattinson’s Batman could offer audiences a side of the hero not regularly seen. The fact that Batman is DC’s greatest detective is usually overlooked. For this reason, Pattinson’s Batman promises to be an entirely new take on the character. It makes sense DC doesn't want to throw that potential away, especially after multiple films already starring Affleck. It's also helpful viewers are aware of this now, as they'll be able to enjoy Affleck's return in The Flash while also looking forward to the future of Pattinson's Batman in the DCEU. Plus, The Batman has an exciting cast even apart from Pattinson that will ensure the movie isn't overshadowed by Affleck's upcoming return.

More: Casting a New Joker for Robert Pattinson's Batman

Source: The Wrap

Key Release Dates