While actor Christian Bale says that playing Batman requires a lot of agility, Katie Holmes’ character Rachel is a girl who is on top of things. By Team Viva
What is your take on the role of Batman? How did you feel playing it?
Christian Bale: We did the screen test and I thought that I don’t want to make this like other Batman films I’ve seen before as that won’t be an interesting way to play. I wanted to think about the unhealthy state of mind that he found himself in, in terms of his need for vengeance and at the same time the battle within himself. He’s got an incredible amount of rage but at the same time he’s influenced by his father, who was a great philanthropist.
Batman is the only superhero without any special superpowers. He is just a man and Chris came up with nice ways on how Batman comes across the various gadgets and all the cool stuff he has. He came up with really cool and believable way on how Bruce Wayne can get his hands on all these things.
Additionally, playing Batman requires a lot of agility and another level of fitness.
How did you create a contrast between Batman and Bruce Wayne?
Christian: Batman has to be someone who is intimidating to the criminals and tough guys. He also has to disguise himself because I didn’t want the voice to be like Bruce Wayne’s. He really kind of channels the other character which he uses to vent his anger and also to get that energy for maintaining that anger since he goes night by night for this.
What went inside making the Batman as interesting as the villains?
Christian: Batman to me, was by far the most interesting character. There are of course great villains around him but he was the real interesting one. I had never seen him play interesting given the opportunity. It always seemed that the opportunity was given to the villains of being the fascinating and dangerous ones. And I had never seen Bruce and Batman being given that before this film.
Tell us more about the Batmobile?
Christian: The Batmobile is in line with what Chris wants to do with the whole film, that is make it more practical and utilitarian. This was a car which really could be used militarily. It looked to me as a hybrid of Hummer and a Lamborghini. It is a monstrous looking vehicle with all kinds of stealth technology for disguise. The design is much more gritty and practical and is something that you can actually see could have a good use.
Katie Holmes: This car is so cool. I finally understood men’s fascination with cars when I saw this thing move. I do have the privilege of riding it in the film and it’s even better on the inside.
Tell us about Rachel.
Katie: Rachel is a girl who is on top of things. She has a ‘Go get it’ approach. She knows what she wants, and keeps on doing it. She has weird relations with her friends, but they still share that childhood bond.
How was it working with Christopher Nolan?
Katie: Chris is phenomenal. Every day he was so focused and professional. He is kind and knows what he wants. We started at the same time every day and finished at the same time. It is smooth but you have to bring in your game to do your best. I really enjoyed working with him. He is very inspiring and talented.
(The film airs on June 29 at 9 pm on Sony PIX.)
