The Flash director Andy Muschietti has revealed a first look at the Batman logo. The familiar costume is sported by Michael Keaton who returns to the role of DC's Caped Crusader for the first time since 1992's Batman Returns.
We're wondering what the blood splattering indicates for Keaton's aged Bruce Wayne. His casting has been the subject of much speculation – is The Flash movie about to draw on the power of the 'multiverse'? Given that the movie also features Ben Affleck's Batman, seen recently in the Zack Snyder cut of Justice League, it seems highly likely that the film will mash up different iterations of the Batman mythology.
Muschietti confirmed that the movie will incorporate elements of the popular 'Flashpoint' comic book arc. Barry Allen aka The Flash wakes up to discover he's now part of an alternate universe. He's been stripped of his lightning-fast abilities, and there have been monumental changes elsewhere within the DC comic book canon. Significant changes include the presence of Thomas Wayne (Bruce's father) as Batman, the complete absence of the Justice League, and an ongoing, devastating conflict between Wonder Woman and Aquaman.
On a more personal level, Barry must go back in time to save the life of his mother who was murdered when he was young. In the process, Barry messes up the time-space continuum, which may well explain the presence of two Batmen from other DC universes.
The film will be the first solo showcase for Ezra Miller's Barry, who also played a key role in both cuts of Justice League (the initial theatrical edit and Snyder's take). Kiersey Clemons also stars as Iris West and newcomer Sasha Calle as Supergirl.
Muschietti transformed the first of his two IT adaptations, based on Stephen King's novel, into the highest-grossing horror film of all time. Can he triumph again with his first venture into the realm of comic book cinema? We'll find out when The Flash is released on 4th November 2022.