The Batman Part II Could Introduce a Surprise Villain (And May Reveal Who Scarlett Johansson Is Playing)

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After several setbacks, production for The Batman Part II is starting to come together. Director Matt Reeves intends to begin filming next year, with the movie currently set to release in 2027. This means casting is a major focus right now. While stars like Robert Pattinson, Colin Farrell, and Andy Serkis are returning, the film will also introduce new characters. Recently, Scarlett Johansson, known for her role in the Marvel universe, joined the cast in an undisclosed role, sparking fan speculation about who she might play. New details about The Batman Part II could offer some hints.

Jeff Sneider, a well-connected industry source, recently shared news about The Batman Part II in his newsletter. He says details about Johansson’s character are still being kept secret. While some speculate she might be a new love interest for Robert Pattinson’s Bruce Wayne, especially with Zoë Kravitz not returning, most believe she’ll be playing a villain.

Regarding villains, Sneider hinted at another male antagonist, potentially Doctor Arkham, though he stressed this is currently just speculation. If the rumor about Doctor Arkham is accurate, it might clarify who Johansson’s character is.

Is Scarlett Johansson Playing the Arkham Knight in The Batman Part II?

If a character named Doctor Arkham appears in The Batman Part II, it could allow the filmmakers to introduce Astrid Arkham. In the comics, Astrid is the daughter of two doctors who worked at Arkham Asylum, treating Gotham’s most dangerous criminals. Sadly, her mother died shortly after Astrid was born, accidentally hit by a Batarang during a prison riot. As she grew up, Astrid wrongly believed Batman was responsible for her mother’s death and dedicated her life to defeating him, eventually becoming the Arkham Knight.

Details about the plot of The Batman Part II are currently secret, but director Matt Reeves has suggested he’s interested in featuring a villain who hasn’t been in a movie before. Because so many of Batman’s classic enemies have already appeared on film, the options are limited. Astrid Arkham is a possibility, as she’s never been the main villain in a Batman movie. Introducing her would be a fresh approach and introduce the character to a broader audience. Using Astrid could also allow Reeves to explore Gotham’s criminal world in a new way – in the comics, she sympathized with the inmates of Arkham Asylum and viewed Batman as the true villain.

I’m so excited for The Batman Part II! Robert Pattinson has mentioned he really wants to explore Bruce Wayne’s personal life in this next film, and that the villain will somehow be connected to his past. That got a lot of us fans thinking maybe Hush will be the big bad, since he and Bruce were childhood friends before things went wrong. There’s also been talk about Arkham Knight, but that villain’s story is more focused on Batman himself, so they’d have to change things around. Honestly, based on what the director has said about wanting a villain with a personal connection to Bruce, I’m starting to think Phantasm is more likely. She’s actually an old flame of his, which would make for a really interesting story!

The Arkham Knight could be a compelling villain for The Batman Part II. While many know him from the Batman: Arkham Knight video game as a vengeful version of Jason Todd, the character has different interpretations in Batman’s history. A film version that sticks closer to the comic books could be surprising – and potentially divisive – for gamers familiar with the video game portrayal. It would be helpful if those involved with the film addressed the rumors before production begins.

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2025-12-04 22:40