The character Batman, celebrated for his heroic attributes, sometimes engages in actions that align closely with villainy. Since his debut in 1939, Batman has evolved into a formidable icon of popular culture, with various actors portraying him in live-action adaptations, each providing their unique interpretation. Despite these variations, one constant remains: Batman is generally viewed as a protector and champion of justice.
Nonetheless, Batman’s journey often leads him down morally ambiguous paths, presenting him with dilemmas that can color him in shades of gray. Almost every film featuring Batman presents a scenario where he takes a questionable action, prompting discussions about his true nature. Here, we delve into ten of the most dubious decisions Batman has made throughout his cinematic appearances.
8
Leaving Ra’s Al Ghul to Die
Batman Begins (2005)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TItECLahsLQ
In Christopher Nolan’s inaugural Batman film, Batman Begins, we witness Bruce Wayne’s transformation as he dons the cape and cowl to confront Gotham’s rampant crime. Nevertheless, this origin story also highlights instances of questionable morality. In a pivotal moment, Batman confronts his former mentor, Ra’s al Ghul, on a train rigged with a device to unleash chaos in Gotham. Rather than saving Ra’s as he had previously done, he opts to leave him to perish. This choice to forsake his own no-kill principles presents a dark side of his character.
7
Allowing Alfred to Believe He Was Dead
The Dark Knight Rises (2012)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LYj4Aq5fdjk
The Dark Knight trilogy culminates in an emotionally charged conclusion with The Dark Knight Rises, where Batman faces off against foes like Bane. In a heroic sacrifice meant to galvanize the citizens of Gotham, he fakes his own death. However, he chooses not to inform Alfred, his loyal confidant and father figure. This act of omission is cruel and serves no substantial purpose other than to deepen Alfred’s despair.
6
Trying to Kill Joe Chill
Batman Begins (2005)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=syttFv6XkWI
Batman’s origin consistently involves the murder of his parents, motivating him to take up the mantle of heroism. Batman Begins not only illustrates this pivotal moment but also explores its aftermath. When Joe Chill, the murderer, is released from prison, Bruce Wayne is driven to confront him with the intent to kill. Though stopped, he demonstrates a readiness to abandon his moral code. This willingness to resort to murder taints his heroic aspirations.
5
Branded Criminals with Bat Symbols
Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Af7KOZ3nRm8
The introduction of Batman in the DCEU marked a stark shift from the traditional hero to a more jaded and ruthless version of the character. In a particularly alarming scene, he thwarts a human trafficking ring with brutal efficiency, branding captured criminals with his symbol. While this brutality sets the tone for his dark portrayal, it raises significant concerns regarding his approach to justice.
4
Hacking All of Gotham’s Phones
The Dark Knight (2008)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IRELLH86Edo
In The Dark Knight, Bruce Wayne reveals his capacity for moral ambiguity when he uses advanced surveillance technology to invade the privacy of all Gotham’s citizens, ostensibly to locate the Joker. This act, despite being driven by noble intentions, represents a profound violation of civil liberties and reflects a troubling misuse of his powers.
3
Made Two-Face Fall to His Death
Batman Forever (1995)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mjOcYSzGMD4
In Batman Forever, Batman’s interactions with the villain Two-Face reveal a darker side. In their final showdown, he manipulates Two-Face’s coin obsession to engineer his fall from a great height. This premeditated action, exploiting the very nature of his opponent, underscores a calculated and villainous turn in Batman’s character.
2
Strapping a Live Bomb to a Henchman
Batman Returns (1992)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JdxkKvJIUz8
Tim Burton’s Batman Returns presents a more whimsical yet dark take on the character. In a strikingly brutal scene, Batman incapacitates a thug by attaching a bomb to him and throwing him away, relishing the ensuing horror. Such a display is not only violent but starkly contradicts his no-kill ethos, marking a particularly dark moment in his narrative.
1
Deciding to Kill Superman
Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ixaEnZHtH8
In Batman v Superman, the DCEU takes one of its most controversial turns yet with Batman contemplating the murder of Superman based on a singular scenario of potential threat. He insists that even the slightest chance of Superman becoming their enemy justifies lethal action. This moment epitomizes Batman’s moral descent, positioning him perilously close to outright villainy within the DC Universe.