Is Superman in “The Dark Knight Rises”?

By on Thursday, December 15th, 2011

So everyone’s touting “The Dark Knight Rises” as the end of the Bat-verse…but what does that mean? A lot of people have interpreted that as an allusion to Batman’s death or his resignation, but I have a different idea. I think Nolan will open up the world of Batman to the greater pantheon of DC heroes, and most importantly Superman. I know that seems weird, but just hear me out…

As reported by our friends at comicbook.com a few days ago, it seems like the Superman “S” symbol appears in the teaser poster for The Dark Knight Rises released months ago. Look closely near the left wing:

 
Here’s a loser look:

Looks like it couldn’t really be mistaken as a coincidence. The only real question is, why? Are WB/DC teasing us for a Man of Steel trailer, or is it something much more exciting and crazy/awesome?

Maybe Bruce Wayne could simply read something in the news about the alien in Metropolis? Or, even though this against comic canon, Supes’ quest could be one result of Bats’ inspiration to make the world a better place?

All I know is, it would be terrible from a financial and artistic standpoint not to use TDKR as a link to the rest of the DC Movie Universe. With Marvel’s astounding success in that regard, how could DC not use their giant success with Batman films to introduce us to the Last Son of Krypton. And since this is the final Batflick, this is for all the marbles.  With Christopher Nolan also producing the next Superman movie, doesn’t it make sense that he might include Superman? I’m convinced that there will be some terrific surprises in The Dark Knight Rises, whether it be Robin, unused Heath Ledger as Joker footage, or even an appearance by Kal-El.

Got any thoughts on the conspiracy theories revolving around next summer’s highly-anticipated movie? Sound off in the comments below.

S#!T Talking Central

  • Ryan

    I think an appearance by superman would be too big to hide. However, I do expect some kind of refernce to him i think the theory that he will be read about in the paper by bruce or be a result of Batman’s inspiration would be the most likely way to tie in Supes with the movie.

    • Steve Lemlek

      I agree. I think that whenever they say “The end of Bat-verse” or however they phrase it, they’re really alluding to this great easter-egg that Nolan’s managed to keep quiet. That easter egg being a reference to MOS. I’m really excited for it, but in a way it cheapens the Batman mythology…but in some ways it’s too damn great to pass up.

      Thanks for commenting!

  • mark

    This rumor is like 4 months old.

    • Steve Lemlek

      The rumor’s even more than 4 months old…I believe. I think it’s been in discussion since Nolan first signed on as producer for MOS, but it was rekindled with TDKR poster that was released a while back. But new speculation, on the heels of new interviews, is far more indicative of what’s to come IMO. And I think we’ll see the Last Son of Krypton…or an allustion to him.

      What do you think? You think he’ll show up?

  • scm

    I HIGHLY doubt Supes gets anywhere near this movie. That rock is now doubt the “S” shield, but that’s just a treat for the fan boys. And not linking TDKR to other DC movies is not a bad idea at all. Trust me, people are gonna go see TDKR. If word of mouth gets around that MOS and any other DC project is good enough, people wil go see those too. WB doesn’t need to copy every little thing Marvel does. Most of these Marvel movies haven’t been that great anyway. Iron Man & Captain America are of coure the exceptions. Even the ones in 3D didn’t get to the billion $ box office point. Come on now.

    • Steve Lemlek

      I agree man….I don’t want Supes to appear and belittle Batman’s importance, because that would send them off in a completely different tangent. But….seeing Superman would still be pretty damn cool, and a huge surprise to us Nolanites.

      BTW, I understand Marvel’s strategy. Those superheroes aren’t iconic enough to support thei rown movies wihtout acknowledging each other. That’s kinda the problem that Fox had with their properties. But at the same time, it trivializes their importance.

      But!!!!!….I also think that Nolan’s Batman isn’t really that much like the DC Batman. He seems a bit more James Bond like…you know, if Bond wore a cowl and had a disgustingly misshaped voice box. I feel like Nolan’s movies are almost how I’d imagine a Nick Fury flick to turn out. If Marvel didn’t already butcher the tone of the films, that is.

  • http://www.quarterstonecomics.com David LeVack

    I see a face on mars. Not a Superman symbol. Come on.

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