Andy Serkis is in talks to play Alfred Pennyworth in Matt Reeves’ “The Batman,” an individual with knowledge of the project exclusively told TheWrap.
Robert Pattinson is set to star as the Dark Knight. Reeves took over the directing gig after Ben Affleck stepped away from the role. Affleck was also expected to play Batman again but then said he would be hanging up the cape for good. Reeves has since described the film as a “defining” and “very personal” story about the Dark Knight, rather than an origin story in the vein of Frank Miller’s beloved “Year One” series.
Serkis would join the cast which includes Zoe Kravitz who has been cast as Selina Kyle, a.k.a. Catwoman and Paul Dano who has been cast as Edward Nashton, also known as the Riddler. In recent adaptations, actors like William Austin, Michael Gough, Michael Caine and Jeremy Irons have played Bruce Wayne’s loyal butler, legal guardian, best friend and moral compass. Ralph Fiennes voiced Alfred in two animated films.
Reeves’ credits include the last two “Planet of the Apes” movies. Serkis played Caesar for Reeves in the “Planet of the Apes” trilogy. Reeves and Mattson Tomlin wrote the screenplay for “The Batman,” and the film is being produced by Reeves and “Planet of the Apes” collaborator Dylan Clark. Michael E. Uslan is executive producing. It is set to start filming in January in the U.K.
Serkis’ other credits include “The Lord of the Rings,” “The Escapist,” “King Kong,” “The Prestige,” “The Hobbit,” “Godzilla,” “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” “Black Panther,” “Breathe,” “The Ritual,” “Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle,” and most recently, “Long Shot.” He is next set to direct “Venom 2” for Sony Pictures. Serkis is repped by CAA and Principal Entertainment.
“The Batman” will be released on June 25, 2021.