Margot Robbie, known for her iconic portrayal of Harley Quinn, recently revealed a fascinating tidbit about the development of ‘Birds of Prey.’ Originally, the villain set to challenge Harley and her crew was none other than the Penguin. However, plans changed when Matt Reeves, director of ‘The Batman,’ expressed his desire to use the character in his own project. This behind-the-scenes shuffle highlights the interconnected nature of the DC universe and the creative decisions that shape its films.
The decision to pivot from the Penguin to Black Mask had significant implications for the film’s narrative and tone. While the Penguin represents a more established and recognizable Batman villain, Black Mask offered a different kind of threat, one that allowed ‘Birds of Prey’ to carve out its own unique identity within the DC canon. This article delves into Robbie’s revelation, exploring the potential impact of the Penguin’s inclusion and the ultimate success of the film’s chosen antagonist.
The Penguin’s Near Miss in ‘Birds of Prey’
In an interview with Colin Farrell for Entertainment Weekly, Margot Robbie disclosed that the first draft of ‘Birds of Prey,’ penned by Christina Hodson, featured the Penguin as the primary antagonist. “The first draft that Christina wrote of ‘Birds of Prey,’ the villain was Penguin,” Robbie stated. This revelation offers a glimpse into the early stages of the film’s development and the creative considerations that ultimately led to a different direction.
The Penguin, also known as Oswald Cobblepot, is one of Batman’s most enduring adversaries, characterized by his cunning intellect, criminal empire, and distinctive appearance. Had he been included in ‘Birds of Prey,’ the film would have likely taken on a different tone, perhaps delving deeper into the gritty underworld of Gotham City. The dynamic between Harley Quinn and the Penguin would have been a fascinating clash of personalities, with Harley’s chaotic energy juxtaposed against the Penguin’s calculated demeanor.
Matt Reeves’ Intervention: A Change of Plans
The Penguin’s inclusion in ‘Birds of Prey’ was ultimately thwarted by Matt Reeves, who was developing ‘The Batman’ at the time. According to Robbie, Reeves contacted the ‘Birds of Prey’ team and requested that the Penguin be reserved for his own project. “And then [The Batman director/writer] Matt Reeves said, ‘Don’t use the Penguin. I’m gonna use him in my thing.’ And so we swapped it to Black Mask,” Robbie explained.
Reeves’ vision for ‘The Batman’ involved a grounded and realistic take on Gotham City, and the Penguin played a significant role in that vision. By reserving the character for his own project, Reeves ensured that he could fully explore the Penguin’s potential within the context of his film’s narrative and themes. This decision, while altering the course of ‘Birds of Prey,’ ultimately served the larger interests of the DC universe, allowing for a more cohesive and interconnected storytelling experience.
The Rise of Black Mask: A New Villain Emerges
With the Penguin off the table, the ‘Birds of Prey’ team turned their attention to Black Mask, a Gotham City crime lord known for his sadistic tendencies and penchant for wearing a skull-like mask. Played by Ewan McGregor, Black Mask proved to be a formidable antagonist for Harley Quinn and her team of female vigilantes. His brutal methods and control made him a worthy adversary, pushing the Birds of Prey to their limits.
Black Mask’s inclusion in ‘Birds of Prey’ allowed the film to explore themes of female empowerment and resilience in the face of male violence. His misogynistic worldview and abusive behavior served as a catalyst for the Birds of Prey to unite and fight back, reclaiming their agency and challenging the patriarchal structures that oppress them. While the Penguin might have offered a more familiar villainous presence, Black Mask provided a thematic resonance that aligned perfectly with the film’s core message.
Impact on the DC Universe: Interconnected Storytelling
The decision to swap the Penguin for Black Mask in ‘Birds of Prey’ exemplifies the interconnected nature of the DC universe and the collaborative efforts that shape its films. While individual filmmakers have their own creative visions, they also work within a larger framework, ensuring that their stories complement and enhance the overall narrative landscape.
Matt Reeves’ use of the Penguin in ‘The Batman’ further solidified the character’s status as a major player in Gotham City’s criminal underworld. Colin Farrell’s portrayal of the Penguin was widely praised, and the character’s popularity led to the development of a spin-off television series, ‘The Penguin,’ which delves deeper into his rise to power. This interconnected storytelling approach allows for a more immersive and rewarding experience for fans, who can follow their favorite characters and storylines across multiple platforms.
The Future of Harley Quinn and the DCU
Following her appearance in ‘The Suicide Squad’ (2021), Margot Robbie’s future as Harley Quinn in the DCU remains uncertain. DC Studios boss James Gunn has stated that Robbie’s future as the character will be “interesting,” suggesting that there are plans in place for her return. However, the exact nature of those plans remains a mystery.
With James Gunn’s ‘Superman’ launching a new DCU separate from Reeves’ ‘Batman Epic Crime Saga’, the possibilities for Harley Quinn’s future are endless. Whether she continues to operate within the established Batman universe or ventures into new territories, one thing is certain: Harley Quinn will remain a central figure in the DC landscape, captivating audiences with her unique blend of chaos and charm.
Conclusion: A Twist of Fate and a Universe of Possibilities
The story of how Matt Reeves prevented the Penguin from appearing in ‘Birds of Prey’ is a testament to the collaborative nature of filmmaking and the ever-evolving landscape of the DC universe. While the Penguin’s inclusion might have altered the course of ‘Birds of Prey,’ the film ultimately found success with Black Mask as its antagonist, delivering a powerful message of female empowerment and resilience.
As the DCU continues to expand and evolve, the possibilities for future stories and character interactions are endless. Whether it’s the return of Harley Quinn, the further exploration of the Penguin’s criminal empire, or the emergence of new heroes and villains, the DC universe promises to deliver a constant stream of surprises and excitement for fans around the world.
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