The Batman was recently delayed to 2022, but that hasn't stopped the production of the film which has been chugging away yet again ever since star Robert Pattinson received a clean bill of health after contracting COVID-19 in September.
The movie, which is shooting in Liverpool, England, has had a bit of a busy week as evidenced by multiple photos from the set making there way online. Amongst others, we've seen a large meeting featurning numerous characters , the aftermath of a car crash, and the Bat himself (or at least a stunt double) standing atop a tall building
NEWS
Now, another piece of media has leaked from the set: A video captured by Twitter user sculptureartman of a motion billboard displayed an ad from the Gotham City Health Department.
The text on the billboard reads: "Addiction to drops is on the rise. Stop drops. Need help? Call us (221)164-6999." while a blood drop symbol with a sinister-looking face hangs in the background.
WHAT THIS MEANS
The overall presentation of the billboard seems to potentially imply that something sinister is afoot, what with the mention of addiction to "drops". Could this be a ploy by one of Gotham's criminal underworld?
Additionally, the red figure on the billboard does look a little like a jack-lantern or a frightening looking mask.
Now typically, a jack-o-lantern would be seen as being fairly innocuous, but this is a Batman movie they're making here. Which member of Bats' rouges gallery is typically associated with horror-themed imagery and in fact is often depicted as wearing a jack-o-lantern inspired mask? None other than Dr. Jonathan Crane, aka Scarecrow.
Could this be a fleeting hint at Scarecrow's involvement? If not in this film, then in a potential sequel? Maybe not. This is far from concrete, but that likely won't stop fans from having a little fun and speculating.
Scarecrow would be a keen fit for this grounded, gritty Batman universe that director Matt Reeves appears to be building out. After all, Christopher Nolan used him as the villain in his 2005 film, Batman Begins which is widely regarded as a more grounded, down-to-earth take on the character.
Whatever the case may be, we'll find out for sure when The Batman hits theaters on March 4, 2022.
