Matt Reeves Explains Why Batman Isn’t In the Penguin; Discusses The Future of Gotham

Matt Reeves, the director of The Batman and an executive producer on The Penguin, explained that Batman’s absence in The Penguin series is due to its narrative focus and timing within the story’s universe. The show picks up directly after the events of The Batman, during a period of chaos and crime in Gotham following the city’s flooding. Batman is preoccupied with addressing the widespread turmoil and consequences of those events, leaving him unavailable to intervene in the Penguin’s rise to power​.

Reeves emphasized that The Penguin is designed to offer a different perspective, focusing on Oswald Cobblepot’s journey in the gritty streets of Gotham. This contrasts with Batman’s high-level view of the city. The show is meant to expand the Batman universe while keeping the presence of Batman as a looming influence, even if he doesn’t appear on screen​.

Additionally, the creators wanted to develop Penguin’s story independently, allowing his character to shine without the immediate overshadowing presence of Batman. This decision aligns with the plan to build a broader narrative framework for the Batman universe, which will continue in future projects like The Batman: Part II, set for release in 2026​

The future of Batman in Matt Reeves’ universe is shaping up to be expansive and focused on deep character exploration. Here’s what to expect:

1. The Batman: Part II (2026)
   Set for release on October 2, 2026, this sequel will delve deeper into Bruce Wayne’s evolution as the Caped Crusader. Reeves has confirmed that the film will maintain its grounded tone, avoiding more fantastical villains. Returning characters include Robert Pattinson as Batman, Zoë Kravitz as Selina Kyle/Catwoman, Andy Serkis as Alfred, and Jeffrey Wright as James Gordon​

2. Expanded Rogues’ Gallery
   The narrative continues to spotlight Gotham’s criminals, including Penguin’s ascension, as seen in The Penguin series, which sets up events leading into the sequel. While specific villains for The Batman: Part II haven’t been fully disclosed, clues from The Penguin finale hint at new antagonistic forces joining the fray​

3. Future Projects in the Batverse
   Matt Reeves has ambitious plans to expand this universe through other character-focused stories, akin to The Penguin. These projects will explore Gotham’s dysfunction and societal issues from varying perspectives, creating an “epic crime saga” that complements the main films​

4. A Long-Term Vision
   Reeves has hinted at a trilogy for his Batman narrative, with Part III potentially arriving in 2029 or 2030. This ensures ample time to develop a cohesive and interconnected universe that doesn’t rush its storytelling​

Reeve’s approach promises a rich, character-driven Batverse, balancing cinematic releases with compelling spinoffs. The emphasis on thematic depth and world-building sets this vision apart from other portrayals of the Dark Knight.

Matt Reeves’ upcoming The Batman Part II will likely explore new villains while continuing the grounded and gritty tone established in the first movie. Hush (Thomas “Tommy” Elliot) is strongly rumored to play a major role, as elements of his backstory were hinted at in the first film, particularly with the mention of “hush money” tied to the Waynes’ legacy. Reeves has expressed interest in this character, who has a deeply personal vendetta against Bruce Wayne in the comics, making him a fitting addition to the storyline’s exploration of corruption and Gotham’s dark secrets​

Other potential villains include Clayface, a shape-shifting antagonist who could be reimagined in a more grounded way for Reeves’ universe. Additionally, the return of Colin Farrell’s Penguin is confirmed, tying into his HBO Max spin-off series that will bridge the gap between the first and second films. The sequel promises to delve deeper into Gotham’s corruption and showcase new aspects of Batman as he faces these forces​