When Matt Reeves unleashed The Batman in 2022, it wasn't just another comic book movie—it was a full-blown crime epic that redefined Gotham City. Drenched in rain, shadow, and psychological torment, the film gave DC one of its most compelling big-screen worlds, anchored by Robert Pattinson's brooding Bruce Wayne and a rogues' gallery of unforgettable villains. Chief among them was Paul Dano's Edward Nashton, aka the Riddler, whose chilling, methodical unraveling of Gotham's corruption left audiences both horrified and mesmerized. Now, as anticipation builds for The Batman Part II, Dano has offered a tantalizing glimpse into what might be in store.
In a recent interview with Collider for his film The Wizard of the Kremlin, Dano was asked about his potential involvement in the sequel. While he remained characteristically tight-lipped, his enthusiasm for Reeves' vision was unmistakable. “I don’t know. Matt is so caring and obsessive in bringing such a point of view to that film, and I think he is going to again,” Dano said. “I could not be more excited to see what he does, and I hope maybe I’ll get to dance again.” That last line—'I hope maybe I’ll get to dance again'—has fans buzzing, especially since the Riddler survived the events of the first film, ending up imprisoned at Arkham Asylum and seemingly forging a connection with Barry Keoghan's Joker.
What Dano Knows About the Script
When pressed on whether Reeves had shared any part of the script with him, Dano gave a careful but promising answer: “I know a very little bit about it, but what I do know, I am excited by, for sure, and I would be surprised if you wouldn’t be as well.” That's not a confirmation, but it strongly suggests that Dano is at least in the loop—and that whatever Reeves has cooked up is worth getting excited about. Given the Riddler's arc in the first film, which ended with him orchestrating a flood and being locked away, his return could explore the aftermath of his actions and his uneasy alliance with the Joker.
For those who need a refresher, The Batman cast also included Zoë Kravitz as Selina Kyle/Catwoman, Jeffrey Wright as James Gordon, Andy Serkis as Alfred Pennyworth, Colin Farrell as Oz Cobb/The Penguin (who's getting his own spin-off series), John Turturro as Carmine Falcone, and Keoghan as the Joker. The sequel's full cast has yet to be announced, but filming is expected to begin soon, with a theatrical release date set for October 1, 2027.
What to Expect from The Batman Part II
While plot details remain under wraps, Reeves has hinted that the sequel will delve deeper into Gotham's underworld and the psychological toll of Batman's war on crime. With the Riddler's influence still lingering and the Joker lurking in the shadows, the stage is set for a darker, more complex narrative. Dano's potential return could tie these threads together, offering a villain who is both a mastermind and a broken soul. If you're craving more gritty superhero action, check out our coverage of Karl Urban's Johnny Cage stealing the show in 'Mortal Kombat II'—a bloody, charismatic sequel that's equally intense.
For now, fans will have to wait for official confirmation, but Dano's comments are a promising sign. As he put it, he's excited by what he knows, and we'd be surprised if you weren't too. Stay tuned for more updates on The Batman Part II and other upcoming blockbusters. In the meantime, catch Dano in The Wizard of the Kremlin, in theaters May 15.
