Dan Fogler, known for his role in the Fantastic Beasts franchise, is set to portray Michael Uslan in a stage play based on Uslan's memoir, The Boy Who Loved Batman. The play is backed by Nederlander Worldwide Productions and is scheduled to run from October 1 to November 10 at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa, Florida, with hopes of eventually reaching Broadway.
Michael Uslan's memoir, published in 2019, delves into his journey from being a comic book enthusiast to becoming a key figure in the Batman film franchise. Uslan's involvement in the Batman universe dates back to 1979 when he and Benjamin Melniker secured the film rights to Batman, a move that was initially overlooked by Warner Bros.
Uslan has been a driving force behind every Batman-related movie since Tim Burton's 1989 original, including films like Joker and Justice League. His story highlights his evolution from teaching a comic book class at Indiana University to working at DC Comics and eventually shaping the landscape of comic book movies.
Dan Fogler's casting as Michael Uslan is praised by Uslan himself, who commends Fogler's talent, stage presence, and genuine passion for the subject matter. Fogler, a Tony award-winning actor with Broadway experience, expresses his excitement to bring Uslan's story to life on stage.
Fogler's personal connection to Batman, having been deeply impacted by the character's portrayal in the 1989 film, adds an extra layer of authenticity to his portrayal of Uslan. The play promises to offer a blend of humor, emotion, and a deep dive into the world of Batman, appealing to fans and newcomers alike.
With its focus on the origins of the Batman film franchise and Uslan's pivotal role in its development, The Boy Who Loved Batman is poised to captivate audiences with its exploration of pop culture history and the enduring legacy of the Dark Knight.
