Well, this is certainly interesting…

Remember how last month saw Ben Affleck say a few things that would have had Warner Brothers a tad worried? Such as how his upcoming solo Caped Crusader movie – tentatively titled The Batman – wasn’t set in stone and that he wouldn’t do it if it wasn’t “great”? Well now comes news that Affleck will no longer be directing the film.

Previously, Affleck was set to helm the movie, star in it, and pen the screenplay alongside DC’s Geoff Johns. Speaking to Variety, though, the star has revealed that he has decided to step away from the director’s chair.

Affleck explained, “There are certain characters who hold a special place in the hearts of millions. Performing this role demands focus, passion and the very best performance I can give. It has become clear that I cannot do both jobs to the level they require. Together with the studio, I have decided to find a partner in a director who will collaborate with me on this massive film. I am still in this, and we are making it, but we are currently looking for a director. I remain extremely committed to this project, and look forward to bringing this to life for fans around the world.”

Given how The WB’s Zack Snyder-driven DCEU has been a bit of a mess so far in its two outings – Man of Steel and Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice – there’s been a whole host of optimism surrounding The Batman. After all, Affleck’s Dark Knight was the true highlight of the flawed Batman v Superman, and his directing work on the excellent trio of Gone Baby Gone, The Town and Argo had fans hoping he could bring something special to The Batman. Added to that, Affleck has been a longstanding fan of the World’s Greatest Detective since his childhood.

Additionally, in place of Affleck, it’s being reported that Cloverfield, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes and War for the Planet of the Apes’ Matt Reeves is one of those being looked at by Warners when it comes to directing The Batman.

Whilst this new film has yet to be given a release date, we do know that Joe Manganiello has been cast as the villainous Slade Wilson, aka Deathstroke, and that The Batman will also feature J.K. Simmons as Jim Gordon and Jeremy Irons as Alfred.

Expect more on all of this as it develops.