Batman's Failure Towards Superman in 'Dawn of Justice': A Reevaluation

In the movie Dawn of Justice, Batman's stance towards Superman is one of the most pivotal narratives, marking a significant moment in the Superman vs. Batman dynamic. The phrase 'I failed him in life. I won’t fail him in death,' spoken by Batman, is a profound statement encapsulating the depths of Batman's mistake. This article explores the key elements of Batman's failure—misunderstanding Superman's intentions, lack of communication, personal vendetta, and the ultimate resolution in death. Additionally, we will delve into why Batman's actions reflect the archetype of the audience in the movie, making him a figure that resonates with viewers.

The Key Points of Bruce Wayne's Failure

Misunderstanding Superman's Intentions

Bruce Wayne, or Batman, initially perceives Superman as a potential threat, primarily due to the chaos and destructive forces unleashed during the battle with Zod. Bruce views Superman’s actions as reckless, threatening not just Gotham but the world at large. This misunderstanding leads Batman to underestimate Superman's intentions and motivations, treating him as an adversary rather than recognizing the hero he actually is. The destruction during Zod’s conflict is seen by Batman as a harbinger of what might happen if Superman is not controlled.

Lack of Communication

The communication gap between Bruce and Clark (Superman) is another critical failure. Bruce and Clark never truly communicate their perspectives or concerns, leading to a tragic conflict rather than a potential alliance. Bruce makes decisions based on his own fears and assumptions, while Superman operates from a place of benevolence and duty. This lack of understanding and open dialogue results in a breakdown in the relationship, turning what could have been a mutual effort into a confrontation.

Personal Vendetta

Bruce's anger is fueled by his traumatic experiences, particularly the destruction of Gotham and the collateral damage that affects his city. This personal vendetta clouds his judgment and leads him to see Superman as an enemy. Bruce’s history with Luthor and the relentless pursuit of justice sometimes blurs the line between fighting crime and eliminating perceived threats. However, his personal loss in Gotham seems to be the primary emotional driver in his conflict with Superman.

Failure to Recognize Common Goals

Both Batman and Superman ultimately want to protect humanity, but their methods and approaches differ significantly. Batman's focus on vigilante justice and his distrust of institutional governance make him wary of Superman, who embodies a more idealistic and government-backed stance. Bruce fails to recognize that they could work together, hampering their potential to achieve shared goals. This misalignment in their values and methods leads to a clash that could have been avoided with better communication and understanding.

Revenge Over Redemption

Bruce’s initial motivation is revenge for the perceived threat Superman poses, rather than seeking redemption or understanding. This approach focuses on personal gain and vengeance, which ultimately leads to unnecessary conflict and tragedy. Batman’s decision to confront Superman stems from a sense of duty to protect the people of Gotham, but it also reflects a lack of trust and a deeper resentment towards Superman's existence. This mindset prioritizes his fears and assumptions over the greater good.

Resolution in Death

By stating he won’t fail Superman in death, Batman resolves to honor Clark’s legacy and protect the world in a way that aligns with the values Clark stood for. This shift from fear and vengeance to a commitment to uphold justice and safeguard humanity suggests a desire to atone for his earlier failures. Batman realizes the importance of protecting not only his city but also the world, and he recognizes his role in ensuring that Superman’s legacy lives on.

Why Batman Falls for the Assassin: Lex Luthor’s Deception

One of the most overlooked aspects of Batman's failure is the misunderstanding of Lex Luthor. Batman failed to verify Luthor's background despite the devastating consequences of his actions. Batman’s oversight shows a lapse in his usual vigilance and research, which would typically involve digging deep into Luthor's history and connections. Batman's belief in Luthor's superior detective skills, coupled with a lack of due diligence, leads him to make a grave error in judgment. This highlights a critical flaw in his approach to handling threats and challenges.

Reflection of the Audience

From the standpoint of the audience in 'Dawn of Justice,' Batman's experience of failing Superman can resonate deeply. The film's narrative structure mirrors the characters' journey, with the audience often feeling a similar frustration and misunderstanding of a hero's actions. Snyder’s approach in 'Dawn of Justice' is a commentary on these misperceptions and the failure to see a hero in their true light. The movie insinuates that just as Batman misunderstood Superman, the audience had also misunderstood the portrayal of Superman, making Batman a spokesperson for the viewer's thoughts and feelings.

In conclusion, Batman's failure towards Superman in 'Dawn of Justice' is a multifaceted issue rooted in misunderstanding, lack of communication, personal vendetta, and a misplaced sense of justice. These elements not only shape the narrative of the film but also offer a relatable perspective for the audience, making the movie a complex exploration of heroism, judgment, and redemption.