INTRODUCTION:

Going with the popular cast of Javier Bardem as the herculean BANE. Not only does Bardem has that rough tough look, but a deep and strong voice, and taking into consideration how actors have been able to gain a build so incredible that you'd think it must be some kind of special effects (300, our own Christian Bale, Jake Gyllenhaal). Being one of the hispanic actors with great presence right now in the spotlight (thanks mainly to "No Country for Old Men") it's not too farfetched if Christopher Nolan decides to use the bat-breaking behemoth in a sequel, that Bardem will be at the top of the casting list. BANE would not only be a physical threat to the caped crusader, but also a mental one, being not only a mass of muscle and knowledgeable in Martial Arts, but a tactical genius. Will we have the bout of the century?

DESIGN:
As one of the few villains in Batman's Rogue Gallery who has been consistent in his Modus Operandi as well in his intentions and look, this interpretation will be really close to it's source. Physically, he'll still be a tall and really strong man. His characterization and story would be exactly as in his first appearance, but I integrated a lucha libre angle, being proud of his damned heritage and taking his mask as a symbol, although this sounds really analogous to Batman, the execution will be handled differently to avoid this (as in JOKER's lack of origin, BANE's story will NOT be thoroughly explained).


DESCRIPTION:

I visualize BANE arriving just as in BATMAN: The Vengeance of Bane. Looking for an outstanding match, looking to conquer Batman himself, and assuming the mission of being Batman's defeat. It can work as an introduction to Bane, and another one being the main villain(ess) while Riddler as a supporting role (like in my Riddler poster). One of the most promising escenarios would be a triple threat match between BANE, DEATHSTROKE and BATMAN. The sheer greatness of the fight wouldn't even need an explanation nor story, but we certainly want it to have one. To visualize BANE in a real world situation as I intended, I pictured him as a (lethal) MMA/Lucha Libre fighter, I was inspired by DOS CARAS JR., who's not only a real luchador, but a promising MMA Fighter, and a really tall S.O.B., put him in a muscle-gaining routine and you have your BANE.

LOOK:

His main attractiveness is his mask. With contrasting colors black, white and red, not even doubting his not a good guy. Looking like a lucha libre mask, and taking into account his hispanic heritage, one would not be able to refrain from putting one and one together. The mask used here, is none other than the one of legendary mexican icon and superstar, BLUE DEMON (Jr.). The hand is from a MMA bandages glove, as I really think that short weightlifting or biker gloves look cheesy on a monster like him.

The full series of "Shadow of The Bat" Posters:
BANE - [link]
THE RIDDLER - [link]
BLACK MASK - [link]
DEATHSTROKE - [link]
MR. FREEZE - [link]

Comments and critiques are welcomed!