Introduction

In the DC Extended Universe (DCEU), Batman and Superman's conflict is a deep and complex one, rooted in differing philosophies and concerns about power and responsibility. This article will explore the key points and nuances that highlight their disagreements, inspired by the works of Frank Miller and the film Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice and the comic series The Dark Knight Returns.

Power and Accountability

Batman, portrayed by Ben Affleck, is deeply concerned about Superman's immense power and the potential for abuse. He fears that Superman's god-like abilities could become a threat if left unchecked, especially after the catastrophic events that occurred. As a symbol of human resilience and a fighter against corruption, Batman has dedicated his life to fighting against injustice and protecting the world from harm. This concern is amplified by his personal loss, as he lost his parents to crime and has seen the chaos that can result from vigilante actions and unbridled power.

Human vs. Alien Perspective

Batman and Superman's conflict is further fueled by their differing perspectives on humanity and justice. Batman represents humanity's vulnerabilities and moral complexities, struggling to understand Superman’s altruism and faith in humanity, which he sees as naive. In contrast, Superman embodies a more idealistic and hopeful perspective, viewing the world through an alien's lens. This philosophical divide leads to mistrust and conflict, as Superman’s goals and methods often diverge from those of Batman.

Personal Loss and Moral Divergence

Die-hard fans of Batman and Superman often highlight the personal tragedy that drives Batman's actions. During his confrontation with Superman, Batman represents the struggle of an individual who would do anything to stop another child from losing their parents, like he did. The chaos caused by Superman’s battles often brings back painful memories and reinforces Batman’s belief that Superman poses a danger to the world.

Manipulation by Lex Luthor and Legislative Battles

Lex Luthor, the classic nemesis of Batman, plays a significant role in exacerbating their conflict. Luthor manipulates both figures, using their differences to further his own agenda. Additionally, their conflict is not just a personal battle but also part of a larger legislative struggle. In Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice, the government forces Superman to retire, stripping the Justice League of its rights to vigilantism. This leaves Superman under government oversight, sacrificing his privacy to continue helping the world, while Batman remains distrustful of external control and continues as a lone vigilante.

The Dark Knight Returns as Inspiration

Frank Miller’s seminal comic series The Dark Knight Returns provides a perfect illustration of the complex philosophy behind Batman's actions. In this story, Batman is a 55-year-old retired billionaire, but after experiencing a powerful flashback to the death of his parents, he returns to vigilantism. Miller portrays Batman's actions as a drug, an addictive release from his childhood trauma that gives him life and a reason to continue. His love for fighting is insatiable, and he has to force himself to adapt to the limits of his aging body, as seen in his close confrontation with a generic supervillain.

Philosophical and Personal Conflict

Miller's series also highlights the personal and philosophical conflict between Batman and Superman. Superman, under government oversight, represents the idea that superheroes should work within established rules to ensure their safety and the safety of the world. Batman, on the other hand, refuses to submit to a government he distrusts, believing in the effectiveness and necessity of his own methods, even if they are illegal. This fundamental disagreement leads to frequent clashes, as seen in their many on-screen and off-screen battles.

The Perfect Resolution

Miller's resolution in The Dark Knight Returns is the perfect way to put Batman and Superman at odds. It portrays a dynamic where Batman fakes his death to avoid conflict with Superman, while the situation is resolved without interference. To me, this is the perfect resolution, as it shows that despite their differences, the two can find a way to coexist. Superman wants Batman to be happy and help the world, but he needs that help to be in a way that won’t rob the world of the superhero's assistance.

In summary, the conflict between Batman and Superman in the DCEU is complex and multifaceted, driven by personal loss, differing philosophical views, legislative pressures, and a deep-seated mistrust of external authority. Whether in the context of Frank Miller’s The Dark Knight Returns or in contemporary films, the dynamic between these two iconic heroes provides a rich narrative thread that continues to captivate audiences.

Conclusion

While Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice did not always receive the highest praise, its inspiration from Miller's seminal work The Dark Knight Returns offers a window into the complex philosophical and personal conflict between these two superheroes. As the DCEU continues to evolve, the relationship between Batman and Superman remains a central narrative thread, offering endless possibilities for exploration and cinematic storytelling.