Now that Star Wars: The Force Awakens has hit theaters, fans are turning to the next highly anticipated blockbuster, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. The film could possibly be a huge step forward for DC Comics which has, until now, played second fiddle to Marvel’s Cinematic Universe. In the past, we’ve discussed both the possibilities for the film’s success or failure, and fans will have the chance to decide for themselves come March.

DC has pulled out all the stops for their Extended Universe, and plans have already formed for the first Justice League film, which, like Batman v Superman, will be directed by Zack Snyder. So far, the only film in the cinematic universe is Man of Steel, featuring Superman. Batman v Superman will introduce Batman and Wonder Woman, but we may also see other members of the Justice League, such as Aquaman, the Flash, and Cyborg. But just how will these people join together?

Recently, in EW’s newest print issue, Ben Affleck shared some thoughts on the future of Batman, including his relationship with the rest of the Justice League, and the possibility of him assuming a leadership role with the team.

Traditionally, Superman is often the leader of the Justice League, due to his strength as a superhero, but Batman has always been the strategist, which allows him to be the only core member of the team without superhuman abilities. While most versions of Batman have portrayed him as a loner and not exactly leadership material, it’s not too far of a stretch if he ends up leading the team in Justice League, Part 1.

“Batman represents human beings, mortal men. In a world of Flashes and Aquamen and Supermen, there needs to be that guy. It’s interesting that he became the leader of the Justice League in the books - I’m not sure how that will play out here - but his humanity is also an asset.”

UPDATE: EW has posted a new Batman v Superman image featuring Ben Affleck and Jeremy Irons, along with concept art of the Batcave in the film:

We’ve heard rumors that Darkseid will be the primary threat in Justice League. Darkseid’s powers are often greater than Superman’s, which means that Batman likely won’t go toe to toe with the villain. It’s more likely that Batman will invent and delegate the plans to take Darkseid down, and perhaps Superman will take the lead when the punches start flying.

In the same article, Jeremy Irons (Alfred) also shared some thoughts on the differences between his version of Alfred, compared to past iterations.

This certainly fits what we’ve seen of Alfred in the Batman v Superman trailers. In the past, Alfred has usually acted as a background character, who only shows up when Batman needs fatherly guidance. It sounds like Jeremy Iron’s Alfred will have much more direct involvement, which could be a refreshing change from what we’ve seen in the past.

“Alfred is a lot more hands on in our film that he has previously been. He’s a bit of a grease monkey, and he’s very involved in the decisions Bruce makes.”

Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice opens on March 25, 2016, followed by Suicide Squad on August 5, 2016;Wonder Woman on June 23, 2017; Justice League Part One on November 17, 2017; The Flash on March 23, 2018;Aquaman on July 27, 2018; Shazam on April 5, 2019; Justice League Part Two on June 14, 2019; Cyborg on April 3, 2020; and Green Lantern on June 19, 2020. The Superman and Batman solo films have release dates TBD.

Source: EW [2]