Insights from Akiva Goldsman on the Original Cut of Batman Forever reveals intriguing details about Joel Schumacher’s initial vision for the DC superhero film. The late Val Kilmer, who portrayed the Dark Knight in the film, succeeded Michael Keaton after Tim Burton’s Batman Returns, before George Clooney took over the role in Batman & Robin.

Despite Batman Forever achieving commercial success with a worldwide box office gross of $336.9 million, the film originally had a much darker tone. Fans have been actively campaigning for the release of Schumacher’s original cut, and a screening of this version almost took place earlier this year.

In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Goldsman candidly discussed his efforts to persuade Warner Bros. to unveil Schumacher’s original Batman Forever cut. He shared the challenges he faced in getting the studio’s cooperation, stating:

After Joel’s passing, I contacted Warner Bros. and mentioned, “There’s a darker version of this movie.” We discovered that it exists and, while incomplete, it is more complete than one might expect. Today, many of the special effects would remain unfinished. However, back then, a significant portion was crafted using miniatures and practical effects — and those were completed. We attempted to revive it, but then interest waned. Nonetheless, I continue to advocate for it.

When asked about the key differences between Schumacher’s Batman Forever cut and the version familiar to audiences, Goldsman noted that the original had a much stronger emphasis on Bruce Wayne’s recurring visions of a red book, which actually represents Thomas Wayne’s diary:

In the original vision, Bruce experiences recurring visions of a red book, which ultimately turns out to be his father’s diary. One entry states, “Martha and I want to stay home tonight. Bruce wants to see a movie, so we’re going to take him out.” This revelation leads Bruce to feel a sense of guilt and responsibility. In one segment, he suffers a head injury, causing him to forget his identity as Batman, and he returns to the cave, where he faces a now-iconic Rick Baker bat.

It’s important to acknowledge that following the release of Batman Returns, the film was criticized for its darkness, prompting a shift towards a lighter tone for Batman Forever. Although Schumacher’s original cut remains intact, there are concerns regarding the financial implications of its release.

The prospect of screening Schumacher’s Batman Forever cut is further complicated by the recent establishment of the DC Universe timeline. With the release of the new Superman movie paving the way for this franchise, the time elapsed since Batman Forever debuted in 1995 may also diminish the appeal for Warner Bros. to pursue a re-release.

Currently, the release of the Schumacher cut appears unlikely, as DC Studios and Warner Bros. Discovery are focusing their efforts on the DCU and ongoing Elseworlds projects, including Matt Reeves’ The Batman series. Launching Schumacher’s Batman Forever cut at this time could cause confusion among the general audience.

However, as the DCU timeline continues to evolve, the possibility of releasing Schumacher’s Batman Forever cut may become more feasible. For now, fans can revisit the theatrical version of Batman Forever through various home media options and streaming services.

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