The Secret Batsuit Fans Of The Tim Burton Batman Movies Missed
Warner Bros.
Tim Burton's Batman films were a labor of love, and their impact on the genre is undeniable. From the iconic Batsuits to the dark and twisted storytelling, Burton's vision left an indelible mark on the Batman franchise. Among the many memorable suits, one particular creation by artist Steve Wang stands out as a hidden gem that even the most dedicated fans might have missed.
In 1989, Tim Burton's 'Batman' film reignited the popularity of the Dark Knight, shedding the kitschy camp of the 1960s TV series and introducing a darker, more menacing Batman. The film's success sparked 'Bat-mania,' and the world fell in love with Burton's unique interpretation. However, the journey to this iconic portrayal was not without its challenges, especially regarding the casting of Michael Keaton as Batman.
The Batsuit, a crucial element in any Batman film, underwent a transformation in 'Batman Returns.' Bob Ringwood's design, a departure from the spandex and underwear style, introduced a more primal and dangerous aesthetic. The suit's jankiness, with its rough texture and imperfect cowl fit, added to the character's mystique. Ringwood's accomplishment was remarkable, as he managed to enhance the original suit while creating something fresh and evocative.
But there's a twist to this tale. Between the iconic suits of 'Batman' and 'Batman Returns,' a third version existed, appearing briefly in the sequel. This secret suit, crafted by Steve Wang, was designed to be the main suit but ultimately ended up in a blink-and-you'll-miss-it shot. It featured a distinctive cowl with a protruding brow, part of a costume that was never fully utilized beyond this single scene and some promotional photos.
The suit's significance lies in its unique blend of the original '89 suit's elemental style and the streamlined, Art-Deco inspired design of 'Batman Returns.' It made Michael Keaton's Batman feel like an extension of Gotham City itself, with its clean lines and angles complementing Tim Burton's expressionist visuals. However, this suit's brief appearance left fans wondering about the potential impact it could have had on the film's overall narrative.
The story behind the secret suit involves a collaboration between Tim Burton and Steve Wang. Wang was tasked with creating a new cowl based on Bob Ringwood's illustrations, with a focus on making the neck slimmer for better flexibility. However, the final version of the cowl, crafted by Jose Fernandez, became the one used in the film. Interestingly, the lack of a strong neck was a criticism of the suit in 'The Dark Knight,' highlighting the evolution of Batman's costume design.
Despite its limited appearance, Wang's original cowl design has left a lasting impression. It was used in promotional materials, including a Warner Bros. Studio tour poster and by Keaton's stunt double, David Lea. The suit's unique features and the artist's dedication to creating a visually stunning Batsuit have made it a favorite among fans, even if its full potential was not realized in the final film.
