We’ve all seen the new costume designs for Batman v. Superman by now but I personally wanted to take a moment to really admire these works of art. No shade to the renditions we have seen in the past of these characters, but there is such a detail and homage to these suits that I really wanted to pick them apart.
Batman
This is the character we obviously have seen the most of but this is the first time in live-action where he will actually be sporting a grey and black suit. I remember there was so much conversation in regards to thinking that all black was the only acceptable method to bring this character to life. Fortunately, with the superhero film golden age upon us, there has been a higher demand for more faithful costumes (just look at Deadpool and Psylocke).
I’m remembering back to some years ago (can’t believe it’s been that long) when Ben Affleck was announced as Batman. There was so much haterade on the internet and I remember my thoughts being: there has never been an actor more suited to play Bruce Wayne. Matt Damon said it best when he voiced support for his friend, “Batman is easy. Bruce Wayne is the challenge.” Yes, he didn’t do the best job for Daredevil but my God if anyone has that untraceable factor needed to portray Bruce Wayne, it’s this guy.
Wilkinson has given us a faithful rendition to Frank Miller’s Dark Knight Returns. The cowl will have full mobility allowing this Batman to actually turn his head and fun fact- it appears that a good portion of Batman’s stunts are done in CGI. The reason for this being, they wanted to give Ben the ability for full ranger motion to give Batman that speed and power. Can’t wait- love it.
Superman
We saw the suit in Man of Steel so of course this doesn’t draw as much awe and attention. That being said, there is still so much to admire about this suit. First off, so glad the underwear is gone.
Both Batman and Superman in essence have very cheesy uniforms. What I admire about Superman’s is that they really worked hard to justify every element of it. The shield on his chest is in fact his family coat of arms. The wrists, torso, and belt have a design that could be interpreted as alien which he in fact is. I also admire the small detail (probably not too visible to us fans without being pointed out) but their are quotes around the suit inscribed in Kryptonian. The whole ensemble is a tribute to Superman’s origin rather than a suit of pure heroism. It’s really one of a kind.
Wonder Woman
Where to even F#&%# begin. I was so nervous about this uniform. Out of the three I would say it’s probably the most difficult to adapt without losing the heart of the character. Were they going to include the star-spangled underwear? Was it going to be very colorful and lazy?
Fortunately, like Superman, Wilkinson paid tribute to the origin of the princess. What we have is a legitimate warrior with a suit bringing an ancient greek feel while leaving no doubt that what we’re getting is Wonder Woman in her entirety.
I love the choice to give her a skirt instead of underwear or pants. Some might think that pants make more sense but this is the princess of Themyscira. There is such an ancient greek inspiration to the character that it only makes sense that her uniform should resemble something of a legitimate gladiator. I also applaud the choice to give her a shield and sword as we have been seeing her wield in recent years.
The only thing that pinches me just a bit is the presence of the wedge heel. I remember when the Dark Knight Rises released and we saw that Selina Kyle was indeed sporting her infamous stilettos. The film went as far as to justify them by showing they were more a weapon than any fashion statement.
I don’t see why an amazon warrior would take to the field in a wedge heel though. It’s only a minor pinch compared to the absolute amazing that is the rest of the ensemble.
Aquaman
Very little has been shown of the costume and what we have seen is primarily through toys. That being said, we at least have an overall idea of what we’re going to get and I’m pleased.
When they announced Jason Momoa as Aquaman I immediately dismissed the chances of getting a New 52 style of the character. My guess was that we’d get something more along the lines of the 90’s version. Of course, that was pretty on point.
Wilkinson confirms that the design for this Aquaman was really focused around Momoa himself. Using the tattoos as scales, gold plated armor, green pants with the familiar A insignia on the belt- amazing.Something that is featured on a toy (and something I hope will be present on the actual suit) is the fins on the boots. It’s a really great touch to the character.
Flash/ Green Lantern/Cyborg
We have not seen anything yet for these characters but if the concepts for the others is any clue, we can definitely expect something faithful to the comics.
I’m sure many super fans have read about that rogue review that was posted on reddit for the movie. There is nor confirmation nor denial about the validity of it but some of the things mentioned in there regarding costumes are actually things that we have already been informed of. So, no spoilers really.
It has been mentioned that the Flash will sport something similar to his costume from the video game Injustice: Gods Among Us. If that’s the case, wonderful. Full speed ahead.
The Green Lantern will not wear a completely CG suit (thank the stars) but will have some CG elements. Allegedly the black and green with the white gloves are present along with the domino mask. I’m curious to see the details to these suits and what unique elements they’ve brought to them.
As for Cyborg, we still have heard absolutely nothing. I have no idea what to expect here. Time will tell.
Regardless, it is safe to say….
We’ve come a loooooong way!
Gabriel A. Pino 