Quick Read
- Danny DeVito praised Michelle Pfeiffer as a ‘goddess’ in Batman Returns.
- He humorously shared how her presence on set ‘flushed’ him.
- DeVito expressed a desire to reprise his role as Penguin, especially alongside Catwoman.
- Batman Returns remains a landmark in superhero cinema, blending operatic storytelling with unforgettable performances.
Danny DeVito, the celebrated actor who brought the Penguin to life in Tim Burton’s Batman Returns, has recently opened up about his experience working alongside Michelle Pfeiffer, who played the sultry and complex Catwoman in the 1992 film. In a candid conversation with Colin Farrell during Variety’s Actors on Actors series, DeVito shared heartwarming and humorous insights about their time on set.
Danny DeVito Calls Michelle Pfeiffer a ‘Goddess’
Recalling his collaboration with Pfeiffer, DeVito didn’t hold back his admiration, calling her a “goddess” and admitting to feeling flushed whenever she was around. “She was just mesmerizing,” he shared, with his signature humor and sincerity. He recounted how his character, Oswald Cobblepot, would become giddy during their shared scenes, jokingly adding, “I’d ask for another pound of makeup just to get through it!”
While the Penguin’s infatuation with Catwoman was an integral part of the movie’s narrative, DeVito clarified that much of this intensity stemmed from his character rather than his own feelings. “I kind of feel like she liked it — Oswald’s quirky advances,” he quipped. In Batman Returns, Pfeiffer’s Catwoman ultimately rejects the Penguin, but the chemistry between the two actors left a lasting impression on fans and critics alike.
Colin Farrell and DeVito Discuss the Legacy of the Penguin
During the interview, Colin Farrell, who portrays the Penguin in the upcoming HBO series The Penguin, seized the opportunity to ask DeVito about his iconic portrayal. Farrell expressed his admiration for DeVito’s nuanced performance, which combined humor, menace, and heartbreak in a way that still resonates decades later. “Did you ever think Oswald would live on like this?” Farrell asked.
DeVito, ever the enthusiast, said he’d “absolutely” reprise the role if given the chance. He highlighted the operatic and Shakespearean qualities of Batman Returns, calling it “a playground for actors.” Reflecting on his character’s minions, realm, and twisted passion, DeVito added, “As long as I could get Catwoman to visit me every once in a while: Be still my beating Penguin heart.”
Why Batman Returns Remains a Superhero Classic
Released in 1992, Batman Returns was a bold departure from traditional superhero films of its time. Directed by Tim Burton, the movie combined gothic visuals, complex characters, and dark humor to create a cinematic experience that defied genre norms. While Michael Keaton’s portrayal of Batman was the anchor, the film’s standout performances came from its villains — DeVito’s Penguin and Pfeiffer’s Catwoman.
Pfeiffer’s transformation into Catwoman, with her razor-sharp wit and acrobatic prowess, became a cultural phenomenon. Similarly, DeVito’s grotesque yet oddly sympathetic Penguin redefined what a comic book villain could be. Together, their dynamic brought a unique blend of tension and dark comedy to the screen, cementing the film as a masterpiece in superhero storytelling.
The Enduring Appeal of Pfeiffer and DeVito’s Characters
Despite their fictional rivalry in Batman Returns, Pfeiffer and DeVito’s off-screen camaraderie has always been evident. Their mutual respect and playful banter during interviews have delighted fans for years. DeVito’s recent comments have reignited interest in the possibility of these characters crossing paths again, even if just in a hypothetical storyline.
Interestingly, DeVito himself contributed to expanding this narrative. In a short story for DC Comics’ Gotham City Villains, he explored a romantic relationship between Catwoman and the Penguin, offering fans a glimpse of what could have been. While the story exists outside of the film’s canon, it underscores the enduring fascination with these characters and their unique dynamic.
The Legacy of Batman Returns in Modern Cinema
Three decades later, Batman Returns continues to influence contemporary superhero films. Its operatic storytelling, moral ambiguity, and visually arresting style have inspired filmmakers and actors alike. DeVito’s performance as the Penguin set a high bar for future portrayals, as evidenced by Farrell’s approach in HBO’s upcoming series.
For DeVito, the legacy of Batman Returns is not just about the film’s impact but also the personal connections it fostered. “Working with Tim Burton and Michelle Pfeiffer was a dream,” he said. “It’s rare to find projects that resonate on so many levels — artistically, emotionally, and culturally.”
As Hollywood continues to revisit and reimagine iconic characters, the timeless allure of DeVito’s Penguin and Pfeiffer’s Catwoman serves as a reminder of the power of great storytelling. Their contributions to the Batman legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of filmmakers and fans alike.