It is truly amazing how quickly the internet changes its
tune.
When Ben Affleck was first cast as Batman over three
years ago, the anger from people online was palpable. The overwhelming
consensus coming from the internet was that Affleck would not only ruin the
character, but also the movie in which he was to debut, Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice. Then the movie came out. And
while it received incredibly negative reviews (I personally see it as an extremely
flawed but ambitious film), Affleck’s portrayal of the character was almost
universally praised. The internet had gone from
thinking his casting was an omen to believing his Batman was a metaphorical
second coming of Christ.
Now, I get it. This is how internet fandom operates,
and Ben Affleck should accept the situation if he really wants to participate
in this franchise. Of course, Batman is a very popular, viable character and
any movie featuring him is going to be highly anticipated. However, I believe
that Warner Bros. (the film studio that produces the Batman films) should
really be trying to take control of the situation, and not leave Affleck to seemingly
deal with it on his own, especially if there is a tipping point at which he
decides to not make the movie. There have been many rumors as of late about how Affleck is unhappy with both the project and the environment surrounding it, and is considering abandoning it altogether. Warner Bros. should use its social media resources
to try and control the narrative, making it clear when certain rumors are flat out
untrue while trying to make sure that both the media and the fans are on the same
page. I by no means believe that Warner Bros. should deal with every rumor that gains even a modicum of traction, but it should consider addressing fairly popular rumors that are trying to portray the studio's plans in a completely negative light. The studio has several places from which it reports news regarding its DC Comics
properties, whether it be Facebook pages or YouTube channels, and it would be
nice to see them take advantage of these platforms to keep fans properly
informed.
I may be asking for the impossible, but I really would
like for the internet to just relax about The
Batman, at least until it is officially announced. Ben Affleck should just
be allowed to work on the script in peace, but alas, as anyone familiar with the internet knows, it can be a volatile and sometimes unforgiving place.
I totally agree that people are quick to jump onto Ben Affleck and pretty much anyone that dares go into these superhero movies. But since Warner Bros likely has tons of people to worry about, how would they help Affleck? I guess if they cared enough and if Affleck was getting such negative reviews people weren't seeing the movies they may step in but otherwise isn't all press good press? Regardless of if it tramples onto Affleck? Again, if it destroyed his brand and made him blacklisted in Hollywood that may sour Warner Bros and his relationship but otherwise, I think Affleck may just need to work on having a better spin team (and getting back with Jennifer tbh).
ReplyDeleteThe Internet/Social Media, and media in general are so volatile when it comes to any particular celebrity. This happens a lot in sports (most recently with Ronda Rousey) in which positions quickly switch. People love you when you're on top, and degrade you when your performance is less than stellar.
ReplyDeleteTo some degree, I think you're right about Warner Bros. having a great chance to silence some of these rumors. However, assuming this won't make Ben Affleck mad enough to quit the film, I think it can be quite good for the film. "What actually is going to happen," some may wonder about the film. Are the rumors true? It may draw more people into the theaters. The newer Star Wars movies have been under this kind of microscope and well, and have done quite well. I understand your concern with Affleck, but for the general well being of the film, it may be best if he plays along.
This is a very interesting perspective that you have to share! Social Media seems to have changed almost every aspect of the world we live in and Hollywood is not an exception. Honestly, I can't imagine having to deal with the kind of social pressure that people like Ben Affleck have to deal with on the regular.
ReplyDeleteI like your take on this issue. Everyone is going to complain and talk about anything that they can. Social media is great and there are numerous pros, but there is a price to pay. People can say whatever they want while hiding behind a screen. I would argue that it is also the price to pay to be famous. Celebrities are going to be in the spotlight and aren't always going to get good press and the higher you rise, the farther you fall.
ReplyDeleteAffleck definitley picked up a lot of backlash from his Batman role. It's funny how something slightly unimportant like this can become something so large. Social media is changing more rapidly everyday and celebrities get some of the worst publicity because of it.
ReplyDelete