Less than two weeks after Warner Bros released its first cinematic trailer for The Batman, filming has been put on pause again. The anticipated DC film has stopped production because its lead actor, Robert Pattinson, has tested positive for COVID-19. Most of the project has not yet been filmed due to the 2020 COVID-19 crisis. Film and television productions had shut down across the industry earlier this year with concerns over health safety. Per Reuters, filming of The Batman began ramping up production a few days ago.
Vanity Fair broke the news early Thursday and reported that Pattinson is “isolating in accordance with established protocols“. The film’s first trailer debuted on August 22 and created mass excitement for fans of the Caped Crusader.
The Batman Likely Will Be Delayed Again
Pattinson’s positive COVID-19 test is an upsetting and noteworthy reminder that we aren’t out of the woods. COVID-19 is still an extreme problem globally and it can affect anyone and any project. While many countries around the world have begun the climb back from COVID-19, many others are still struggling. Countries like the United States (Warner Bros home) and England (The Batman’s filming location) are two such countries.
Earlier this year, The Batman’s release date had been pushed back. Originally slated to release in June 2021, the film’s recent debut trailer only provided a vague “2021” release window. Though, back in April, it was reported that Warner Bros, The Batman, and Pattinson were aiming for October 2021. The most recent delay, in addition to the film trailer’s vagueness, is cause for uncertainty surrounding the film’s actual theatrical release.
The Rest of Hollywood
Pattinson’s positive test result doesn’t just impact The Batman exclusively. Rather, the news raises questions about the rest of Hollywood. The positive COVID-19 test came just days after filming resumed. Fans and journalists will be feverishly watching the productions of other high-profile projects. Thankfully, the team working on The Batman has responded responsibly and provided faith that other teams will follow suit if need be.
