No matter when the films hit theaters, Warner aims to make them as contemporary as possible. By tapping younger directors, the source says, the studio hopes to reinvigorate the superhero for a post- ''Matrix'' audience eager for up to date effects.

Indeed, Aronofsky plans to retain ''the street edge that often gets lost with such big budgets'' -- meaning comics fans who rolled their eyes at the overblown Bat merchandising blitzes will feel more at home with this low kitsch Gotham.

The studio's approach to the Bat material (including the dynamic directorial duo) is already earning props from the always fickle comics community. ''It feels as if someone has finally listened to comic book fans and said, 'We'll try it your way,''' says director and comics aficionado Kevin Smith (''Dogma''), who worked with Warner in a failed effort to revitalize the Superman franchise. ''Because the last two they certainly did their way.''

Still, purists shouldn't expect a miracle. Batman two timer Joel Schumacher recently congratulated Aronofsky on the ''Year One'' concept, but offered this warning based on his experience: ''Be prepared to sell toys.'' Just no nipple suits.

Originally posted Jan 04, 2001
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