Even before The Batman had Robin to depend on, as his sidekick – the caped crusader always had his tactical assault vehicle to assist him during his crime-fighting nights in Gotham City. Similarly, the recently released DC flick introduces a brand new Batmobile based on a muscle car instead of the usual militarized mode of transportation. Yet, that seems to be what director Matt Reeves and his long-time collaborator, Production designer James Chinlund had in mind.
From gothic architecture to the grim skyline, Reeves’s world-building in Robert Pattinson starrer The Batman has been exceptionally well-received by critics and fans alike. Unlike past incarnations – the design structure has heavily leaned towards classical adaptation rather than modernity. So when the time came to create a new Batmobile blueprint, Chinlund knew it couldn’t be a high-tech influenced military vehicle.
“It wasn’t going to be like a tank or a specialized weapon,” Chinlund said speaking to Variety. Echoing previous statements that Bruce Wayne liked repurposing from scraps rather than depending on Wayne Tech. “He was not James Bond, he was a singular vigilante.”
Past iterations such as Ben Affleck‘s Batman and Christian Bale‘s Dark Knight used tactical batmobiles with enough firepower to fight an army. In fact, Christopher Nolan‘s Batman Begins even describes the tumbler as a “black tank”. But the new DC film team had a different idea.
Reeves’ initial notes for the batmobile to Chinlund, “relentless [and] motivated by a mission” seems to be the major influence behind its design. Added, it shouldn’t dismiss the vehicle’s ability to mow down anything in its path.
“Every design choice you see in the car is born out of the function required,” Chinlund explained. In particular, the engine rearing front has a reinforced steel bumper and frame “because he needed to be able to push his way through any obstacle,” the back of the car was left open because they didn’t need to protect that area.
Since the film portrayed a Year Two Batman in his formative years, it’s understandable to see the Dark Knight trust his own skills as a lone vigilante. Perhaps a sequel could mean some much-needed Batmobile upgrades? especially to the rear end.
The Batman is currently in theaters.
