Critics Applaud Robert Pattinson's Chemistry With Zoë Kravitz In 'The Batman'

Before its official debut in theaters on Friday, the first reviews for Robert Pattinson's "The Batman" are in already, with critics having a field day discussing the several highlights in the film. The film stars Pattison for the first time, following Ben Affleck's departure from the caped crusader role after almost a decade.

Having gotten a first look at the film, critics are now applauding the movie's darker tone, which interfaced with its enthralling gritty scenes. Additionally, they have called fans' attention to the onscreen chemistry between Pattinson and Zoe Kravitz, who portrays the anti-hero Catwoman in the blockbuster.

Read below for more details about the reviews.

According to Alex Stedman, Pattinson's performance is "crushingly painful," alongside costar Kravitz as his female nemesis in the flick.

"Kravitz's layered portrayal of the cat-burglar clawed past even my high expectations. She's got all the slinkiness and slyness you could hope for, but, like Pattinson's Bruce, she's also incredibly vulnerable while selling an insatiable need for revenge," penned Stedman.

"Pattinson may be the one screaming 'I am vengeance!' but it's Kravitz who simmers with a need for payback. Plus, the two actors' chemistry is undeniable. Whether they're trading fists or information, it's all very hot."

Stedman also stated that Paul Dano's feature as the Riddler added an exciting take into the new installment.

Variety's Peter Debruge commented, "This grounded, frequently brutal and nearly three-hour film-noir registers among the best of the genre, even if — or more aptly, because — what makes the film so great is its willingness to dismantle and interrogate the very concept of superheroes."

Further reviews came from critics like Beyond the Trailer's Grace Randolph, A.V. Club's A.A. Dowd, and David Rooney of The Hollywood Reporter.

Rodney praised Pattison's performance for its magnetic intensity, which was prevalent throughout the film. At the same time, Dowd spoke about Kravitz's feature as "an uncommon emotional realism to Cat woman" and highlighted the amount of work put into place in setting up Colin Farrell for the Penguin role.

Randolph penned her view that "Batman is "not a perfect movie, but it's darn close." She further buttressed that the flick was arguably the best Batman movie to date, with Robert Pattinson portraying the vigilante role effortlessly.

Critics were not the only ones who could see the chemistry between Pattinson and Kravitz. Director Matt Reeves also gave his take on their connection, saying "everyone could see there was something really special between them."

Kravitz herself also spoke about the onscreen relationship with her costar, "There could be a lot going on in a scene, but if I were able to connect with Rob and look into his eyes, it would immediately bring me into the moment. I saw a look in his eye that I hadn't seen before. Seeing something new and very vulnerable as well was really beautiful."

Given the glowing reviews about the cast performance, it is safe to assume fans would be in for a thrill when they visit the theater on its debut date.

The new "The Batman" blockbuster will not only introduce Pattison to the role but also serve as the origin story for Kravitz's character known as Selina. The movie will set a precedent for two more sequels in a shared universe separate from the DCEU.

Pattinson and Reeves have shown interest in adding Robin and renowned villains such as the Court of Owls, Calendar Man, and Mr. Freeze to the upcoming sequels, which further promises more allure for the franchise in the future.

Additionally, the showrunners have disclosed plans to introduce some spinoff series inspired by "The Batman." The leading concept is a spinoff centered on the Gotham City Police Department series and another show about the criminal kingpin Penguin.

"The Batman" premieres in theaters this Friday.