When considering the actors who have played Batman, it's important to look at the archetypal qualities that each actor brought to the role. Christian Bale's portrayal in Christopher Nolan's Dark Knight trilogy is the clear winner here, as he embodied the classic hero archetype in his intense physicality and emotional depth. His performance is a testament to the power of the hero's journey, as he transforms from a vengeful vigilante to a symbol of hope and justice.
Michael Keaton's portrayal in Tim Burton's 1989 film also deserves recognition, as he brought a sense of brooding darkness to the role that resonated with audiences at the time. However, his performance lacked the archetypal depth of Bale's, as his portrayal was more focused on his internal struggles as a character.
Adam West's portrayal in the 1960s TV series was a departure from the dark, brooding Batman of later years, but it nonetheless had its own unique appeal. West's comedic take on the character injected a sense of levity into the role, and his portrayal of Batman as a symbol of hope and justice was a nod to the hero archetype.
Ben Affleck's portrayal in the DCEU films was a departure from previous portrayals, as he focused on the character's inner turmoil and grizzled exterior. However, his performance lacked the archetypal depth of Bale's, as it felt more like a surface-level exploration of the character's flaws rather than a true hero's journey.
Kevin Conroy's voice performances in multiple animated series and films also deserve recognition, as his emotive and nuanced portrayal of Batman helped to define the character for generations of fans. However, as he has never played the role on screen, his performance lacks the physicality and depth of the other actors on this list.
George Clooney's portrayal in Batman & Robin was a misstep for the character, as it lacked the archetypal depth and gravitas of previous portrayals. His suave, debonair take on Bruce Wayne felt out of place in the dark, gritty world of Batman, and the film's overall campiness was a poor fit for the hero archetype.
Val Kilmer's portrayal in Batman Forever was forgettable at best, as he lacked the archetypal depth and physicality of previous actors who had played the character. His chemistry with love interest Nicole Kidman was lackluster, and his overall performance failed to resonate with audiences.
In conclusion, when considering the actors who have played Batman, it's important to look at how well they embody the hero archetype and the hero's journey. Bale's performance stands out as the clear winner in this regard, while the other actors on this list fall somewhere in the middle.