FRANCESCO VIOLA III

Ever since the Batman and Superman crossover film was announced at the San Diego Comic-Con. Fans have anxiously waited to see what actor would be announced to fill the shoes of former Batman, Christian Bale.

Finally, the wait is over, and Academy Award winning director Ben Affleck has been cast as Batman.

This announcement comes from divisional executives Greg Silverman and Sue Kroll of Warner Bros. Pictures.

“We knew we needed an extraordinary actor to take on one of DC Comics’ most enduringly popular superheroes,” Silverman said, “And Ben Affleck certainly fits that bill.”

The director of the film, Zack Snyder, shared Silverman’s enthusiasm.

“Ben provides an interesting counterbalance to Henry’s (Cavill) Superman,” Snyder said, “I can’t wait to work with him.”

Despite the excitement from those involved, many fans have objected to the casting, with a petition to remove the actor nearing 70 Thousand.

Many have cited that Affleck isn’t a good enough actor for the role, such as Junior Sean Donahue.

“Ben Affleck is very monotone, and Batman requires a lot of emotional depth,” Donahue said, “Plus, he just isn’t a very good actor.”

Some have also cited that Affleck doesn’t look the part, including Junior Sami Palma.

“He is too old and too small. Especially coming off of Christian Bale,” Palma said.

Regardless of the reactions, the film is slated to open July 17th, 2015, and will also star Henry Cavill, returning as Superman, along with Amy Adams as Lois Lane.