The Dark Knight

New details about Ben Affleck's abandoned solo Batman film suggest the project was far darker and more troubled than fans realized. Reports describe a bleak take on the Dark Knight that never made it past development before Affleck stepped away from the role. The revelations have reignited debate among fans about what might have been in the DC universe.

Heath Ledger's name is circulating again, tied to discussion of villains who are completely unapologetic on screen. Ledger's Joker in The Dark Knight remains the reference point for this kind of character, and commentary about why audiences enjoy such roles has brought his performance back into the conversation. No new project, anniversary or statement has been confirmed as the trigger.