With the finality of Justice League Dark: Apokolips War, the DC Animated Universe (DCAU) is set for a reboot. From a new art style to story direction, there’s bound to be a few surprises in store. But wouldn’t it be cool to see director Tim Miller involved in the next animated Batman movie?
Miller is known for his directorial work on Deadpool and Terminator: Dark Fate, but he cut his teeth as a renowned visual effects artist for many years. He co-founded Blur Studio, which has been responsible for CGI cutscenes for video games such as Need for Speed: Underground and Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas.
Perhaps less publicised, Tim Miller directed the fan-favourite Batman: Arkham Origins trailer that pitted the Dark Knight against Deathstroke. The trailer has done the rounds on the internet for years as fans have clamoured for it to be used as a template for a live-action Batman film, with its intense action sequences and moments of sheer comic book splendour.
Now, imagine a new animated film about Gotham City’s protector in the same style as the Arkham Origins trailer. Especially with Miller calling the shots and bringing his unique brand of storytelling to the forefront of this new animated universe.
Yes, Tim Miller might be exploring the live-action world, but it’d be a wasted opportunity if his interpretation of Batman wasn’t explored further. Director Matt Reeves might be standing in his way on the blockbuster front, but the animated universe could allow Miller to do things that he wouldn’t be allowed to do in a live-action Batman film. More importantly, he would have a clean slate to set the tone and standard for this new universe.
Of course, it isn’t like the DCAU needed a reboot in the first place. The films have largely been warmly received by fans and critics alike, so this reboot will need to introduce something different, something fresh. Otherwise, what was the point of this reset in the first place?
Naturally, this is all hypothetical at the moment. Tim Miller has never publicly said he’d like to direct an animated film, nor is it likely that DC and Warner Bros. have reached out to him to do so. In fact, Miller’s stock has risen in Hollywood and he might be commanding a fee that’s too far out of the budget for these projects. Still, fans can dream of seeing another round of the fabled Batman and Deathstroke fight, right?