George Clooney's Batman performance has been famously criticized, but it turns out, even his own son isn't a fan!
Jason, an award-winning journalist with a knack for pop culture, especially anything and everything related to Batman, has penned this piece. His journey began with a childhood love for cinema, leading him to filmmaking before he found his calling in writing about his passions.
For years, George Clooney has been his own harshest critic when it comes to his portrayal of the Caped Crusader in Batman & Robin. But it seems he's not alone in his assessment.
During an interview with MovieWeb to promote his new film, George Clooney was asked about a career moment he'd like to revisit, and without hesitation, he chose Batman & Robin. This prompted a charming anecdote about his son, Alexander, and his reaction to his dad's take on Batman.
Clooney shared that his son dressed as Batman for Halloween, even though he hadn't seen the movie. When Clooney told him he was Batman, Alexander simply replied, "Not really." Clooney's response? "You have no idea how right you are."
But here's where it gets controversial...
Batman & Robin starred George Clooney as Batman, succeeding Val Kilmer, alongside Chris O'Donnell as Robin, Arnold Schwarzenegger as Mr. Freeze, Uma Thurman as Poison Ivy, and Alicia Silverstone as Batgirl. Despite earning a respectable $238 million worldwide, the film's $107.4 million gross in North America, against a budget of $125-160 million, was seen as a disappointment. Critics panned the movie for its overly cartoonish style and resemblance to a toy commercial.
Clooney continues to apologize for his performance and the film itself. However, the movie has gained a cult following, with some fans arguing that Batman & Robin is unfairly maligned. Some even appreciate its campy tone, seeing it as a tribute to the Adam West era.
Some have defended Clooney, suggesting he was a decent fit for Bruce Wayne's playboy persona. Clooney himself seems to have embraced the criticism, reprising the role in a humorous cameo in The Flash in 2023.
Batman & Robin is available to stream on HBO Max.
Director: Joel Schumacher
Runtime: 125 minutes
Writers: Peter Tomasi
Cast: George Clooney, Chris O'Donnell
Franchise: Batman
What do you think? Do you agree with George Clooney and his son? Or do you believe Batman & Robin deserves a second chance? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
