How Director James Watkins Redefines Gotham City in His Latest Film

Director James Watkins is redefining Gotham City in his latest film by moving away from traditional superhero tropes. He emphasizes a grounded, realistic portrayal of the city, collaborating with production designer James Price to create an authentic urban atmosphere. Filming on location in Liverpool, Watkins captures the gritty essence of the environment, enhancing the narrative's psychological depth. The casting of Tom Rhys Harries as the lead character adds to the film's success, showcasing a complex transformation throughout the story. With a focus on character-driven narratives and body horror elements, Watkins explores the darker aspects of Gotham, ensuring a unique cinematic experience that prioritizes human emotion over spectacle.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 27, 2026, 23:35 IST

A Fresh Take on Gotham

Director James Watkins has shared insights into his innovative vision for Gotham City, aiming to create a version that diverges from the typical superhero narratives commonly found in the DC universe. By emphasizing a sense of raw reality, Watkins portrays a city that appears indifferent to its residents, marked by a pervasive absence of justice and gritty, unrefined streets. To achieve this unique look, he collaborated with production designer James Price, drawing inspiration from the cinematographic styles of New York during the 1960s to the 1990s, as well as the imposing architecture seen in German expressionist films.

Authenticity Through Location

Instead of relying on studio sets, Watkins chose to film in Liverpool, capturing an authentic urban vibe. By using vintage lenses and emphasizing how the environment dwarfs the characters, the production aimed to create a visceral and immersive experience. This stylistic decision was meant to root the narrative in a world that feels lived-in and harsh, contrasting sharply with the more stylized portrayals of Gotham typically found in mainstream comic adaptations.

Tom Rhys Harries Takes Center Stage

Key to the film's success was the casting of Tom Rhys Harries in the role of Matt. Watkins explained that finding the right lead was a thorough process, involving numerous auditions and an essential chemistry read with co-star Naomi. The director emphasized the need for an actor who could balance the character's initial relatability and vulnerability with the darker transformation that unfolds throughout the story. Watkins expressed great pride in Harries' performance, highlighting his ability to convey both empathy and a chilling sense of dark glee as his character delves into more extreme situations.

Breaking Away from Superhero Norms

Watkins noted that he was given significant creative freedom to interpret Gotham on his own terms, without the constraints of established Batman lore. By concentrating on body horror elements and a character-driven storyline, the production team aimed to delve into the psychological impact of the city's environment on its inhabitants. This approach allowed for a distinctive exploration of the source material, prioritizing the human experience over spectacle and ensuring that the audience remains engaged in the protagonist's journey, even as he navigates increasingly disturbing and complex moral dilemmas.