Can’t wait for ‘Batman v Superman’

Let me start off by saying that I have never realized how much of a comic book nerd I am until the announcement of the “Batman v Superman” movie was made official. This is such a monumental moment in my life. I’d like to thank my family and friends for supporting me (or at least hiding their judgement) in my everlasting Batman obsession, Zack Snyder for making this film possible and for all the comic fans around the world who pushed for this movie to happen.

This movie, released March 25, is significant in many ways. Not only does it continue the Man of Steel series, but it also brings to life the new, or should I say “older” Batman series. In this movie, Batman has been around for decades (as seen through the easter egg appearance of Jason Todd’s Robin costume, Bruce Wayne’s obvious gray hair and more). This Batman, played by Ben Affleck, is more experienced and has a bleaker view of life. This is not your Adam West nor Christian Bale’s (insert raspy/strangled voice here) Batman.

Allow me to digress for a minute. I was a little apprehensive about Ben Affleck being Batman for a while. I trusted Zack Snyder, but was completely afraid that his Batman would be George Clooney’s reincarnated. But if Ryan Reynolds can right his horrible… horrible… horrible superhero ship by transforming from “Green Lantern” to “Deadpool,” why can’t Ben Affleck?

Back to my point. Batman and Superman also set up something that comic book fans have been desperately wanting for years, even before the “Avengers – The Justice League.” Rumors have been flying over which Justice Leaguers have been confirmed in this specific film. So far, we have Cyborg, Wonder Woman, the Flash, AND Aquaman to make appearances in Batman vs Superman. In some way, shape, or form, these heroes will be united to take on a larger threat — specifically Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman.

One of the largest setups of this movie is the introduction of Wonder Woman. The No. 1-selling superheroine will finally have her debut on the silver screen. Gal Gadot will be starring in the first major solo superheroine movie, something that has been long overdue. Originally, reviewers expected Wonder Woman to have a small role, possible only a cameo, in the “Dawn of Justice,” but directors and producers of the movie have suggested that viewers will see everything that the Amazonian Princess has to offer.

“Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” is just the continuation of greatness that superhero nerds have to look forward to in 2016. It started with “Deadpool,” the mercenary we fell in love with. It continues with “Daredevil Season 2” being released on Netflix, “Batman v Superman,” “Captain America’s Civil War,” “X-Men: Apocalypse,” “Luke Cage” on Netflix, “Suicide Squad,” and wrapping it up with “Doctor Strange.” The greatness of 2016 just doesn’t seem to end.

Christian Gray is a senior majoring in marketing with a focus in promotion and communications and a minor in economics. He is president of the Student Activities Board. When he’s not planning events or doing schoolwork, you’ll catch him watching something sports related (#KOBE) or vibing out to music. His career goal growing up was to be Batman. He won’t tell you if he was successful on that mission, but let’s be real ­– have you ever seen him and Batman in the same place before?