Jonah Hill as Riddler in Matt Reeves' 'The Batman' is a terrible idea but he will make a fab Penguin
Matt Reeves' 'The Batman', starring Robert Pattinson, may have just found its second cast member in 'Maniac' star Jonah Hill. The 35-year-old actor is reportedly being considered for a part in the upcoming movie as a villain. This is the first bit of casting news to surface for the movie since Pattinson's casting as the Dark Knight was announced back in May.
Variety reports that the movie's producers have wanted Hill for the project for a long time but casting decisions were put on hold until the lead role of Bruce Wayne/Batman was filled. The deal is reportedly not yet finalized but Hill is expected to play one of the villains, of which 'The Batman' has plenty.
Rumors have suggested that 'The Batman' may feature multiple villains from the Caped Crusader's rogues gallery including the Penguin, the Riddler, Catwoman and more. The news of Hill's casting has led to fans suggesting the actor could either play Oswald Cobblepot aka the Penguin or Edward Nigma/The Riddler.
If the plan really is to cast Hill as the Riddler, then that might be a bit of a letdown. While Hill has certainly proved his mettle as an actor over the years, the Riddler is a criminal mastermind who has a certain menacing air that we just can't see Hill pulling off.
Though some might see the Riddler as a funny character and think Hill's background in comedy would make him perfect for the role, the actual Riddler in the comics is no joker and his association with comedy primarily stems from Jim Carrey's ultra-campy rendition of the character in the 1995 movie 'Batman Forever', widely regarded as one of the worst Batman films ever.
Considering Reeves reportedly plans to focus on Batman's detective side, the Penguin is the villain that makes the most sense. Not only is Cobblepot a devious mob boss with plenty of potential in a crime-noir setting, but he would also be the perfect role for Hill to take up if he does join the project. Not only does Hill have the comedic skill to pull off some of the more ridiculous aspects of the character (like his waddling walk), but he also has enough acting ability to provide a memorably villainous performance as the Gentleman of Crime.
'The Batman' is scheduled for release on June 25, 2021.