The sequel to The Batman had been long awaited and Matt Reeves finalizes the screenplay to The Batman Part II. DC Studios co-head James Gunn announced this news at a recent red carpet event as he gave a short, but positive response: "It's amazing."
Gunn's announcement gives new impetus to this film after months of speculation and inactivity. The original Batman film opened in March 2022 with Robert Pattinson's Batman presenting a darker, quasi-realistic version of Gotham City. The sequel is a titled for development quite some time and fans haven't been too patient in waiting for updates on further progress—especially as huge Hollywood disruptions from industry strikes in 2023.
Reeves co-wrote the new script with screenwriter Mattson Tomlin, who also credited with contributing to the story of the first film. The script was finished in late June 2025, according to industry sources. Gunn's approval only adds more validity to the sequel's direction, and of course requiring approval since Gunn is currently overseeing the highest level of direction of DC's film universe.
What We Know About the Sequel So Far
The Batman Part II will be released as a part of the "Elseworlds" brand for DC, which includes stories that take place "outside" of the main continuity of the DC Universe. Therefore, this Batman which is played by Pattison remains separate from the upcoming version of the character in the DCU, which will appear in The Brave and the Bold, another project overseen by Gunn.
No plot details have emerged about the sequel yet, but from what we are hearing, the second film is expected to see several main characters returning from the first film. Robert Pattinson is set to return as Bruce Wayne, while supporting cast members are also expected back as well, such as Jeffrey Wright (commissioner Gordon), Andy Serkis (Alfred) and Colin Farrell (Oswald Cobblepot/The Penguin).
There has also been speculation that Barry Keoghan, who made a brief cameo as the Joker in the first film in its post-credit scene, might have a more significant role this time; but this has yet to be officially confirmed.
The release date for the film has currently been set for October 1, 2027, after a delay that was announced in late 2024. The film is looking to start production at Leavesden Studios, in the UK in early 2026. The long period prior to production involves difficulty scheduling plus the filmmakers desire to give the script the time and attention it needs.
James Gunn on ‘The Batman Part II’ script pic.twitter.com/mGzKObkvgw
— Deadline (@DEADLINE) July 8, 2025
Gunn and Reeves Working Independently but In Accordance
Though The Batman Part II is not part of the new DC Universe James Gunn and Peter Safran are developing, the two directors seem to have respectful working relationships. Since Gunn praised the script, it is clear that he appreciates Reeves’ unique vision for the character.
This is significant because the DC Universe is simultaneously developing two different centuries of Batman - one in the more grounded and standalone world of Reeves, as well as one in the connected DCU. In addition, Gunn is developing The Brave and the Bold, which will depict a new Batman, in association with new character Damian Wayne.
While there were worries that there could be two Batmans on screen and audiences would be confused, Gunn has already laid out that there will be two versions of Batman — with each being distinct and each having its own storylines. The Batman Part II will take the same dark, cinematic and detective style that made the first film so successful.
With a script finalized and release date now taking shape, viewers who liked Reeves’ Batman are ready for the next installment of this darker vision of the Caped Crusader. More information will become available as production starts begin to kick off in early 2025.
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