The Catwoman Comeback? Halle Berry Reflects on the Film’s Legacy and Potential Sequel
Twenty years ago, the world was introduced to a new iteration of the iconic DC Comics character, Catwoman. Starring Halle Berry in the titular role, the film was poised to make a significant impact at the box office. However, the 2004 Catwoman movie was far from the success everyone expected. Despite the star power and the character’s popularity, the film was a commercial and critical failure. Now, two decades later, Halle Berry is considering a return to the role, but with a twist.
The Original Catwoman Movie: A Box Office Flop
When Catwoman was released in 2004, it was met with harsh criticism. The movie, which deviated significantly from the source material, was widely panned for its weak storyline, poor dialogue, and underwhelming special effects. The plot revolved around Patience Phillips (Berry), a meek graphic designer who gains superhuman abilities after being resurrected by an Egyptian cat. Unlike the traditional Catwoman character, who is often portrayed as Selina Kyle, a morally ambiguous antihero in Gotham City, Patience was a completely new creation for the film.
Critics and fans alike were disappointed with the movie’s departure from the established lore of Catwoman. The film struggled to find an audience and ended up grossing only $82 million worldwide against a $100 million budget. It was a far cry from the success of other superhero films of the time, such as Spider-Man 2 and X-Men. Halle Berry’s performance, although praised for her commitment, could not save the film from its fate. The movie even earned her a Razzie Award for Worst Actress, which she accepted in person with good humor, famously joking, “I want to thank Warner Bros. for casting me in this piece of s***.”
A Surprising Resurgence
Fast forward twenty years, and it seems Catwoman has found a new audience—one that wasn’t even born when the movie was first released. During a recent appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Halle Berry reflected on how the film has gained a cult following among younger viewers. “What I’m happy about is that the children have found it now on the internet, and they love it,” Berry said. “So, it’s so vindicating. Because now they’re saying it’s cool and what the heck was everybody’s problem with it.”
This resurgence is not uncommon in the world of cinema. Many films that were initially considered flops have found new life years later, thanks to the internet, streaming services, and social media. These platforms allow younger generations to discover and appreciate movies that may have been overlooked or misunderstood when they were first released. Catwoman seems to have benefited from this trend, with a new generation of fans who appreciate its unique take on the character.
Halle Berry’s Vision for Catwoman 2
Given the renewed interest in the film, the question arises: Could there be a Catwoman 2? When Jimmy Fallon asked Berry if she would consider reprising her role, the actress teased the possibility. “Maybe…if I could direct it. Maybe,” she said. This isn’t the first time Berry has hinted at a potential sequel. In 2021, while promoting her directorial debut Bruised, she expressed interest in reimagining the Catwoman narrative. Berry envisioned a story where the character saves the world, aligning more closely with traditional superhero arcs.
Halle Berry stepping into the director’s chair for a Catwoman sequel could be an exciting prospect. Her experience directing Bruised was met with positive reviews, showcasing her talent behind the camera. If she were to direct a new Catwoman film, it’s likely that she would bring a fresh perspective to the character, one that could resonate with both old fans and new.
The Future of Catwoman
While there are no concrete plans for Catwoman 2, the possibility remains intriguing. In a world where superhero films dominate the box office, a reimagined Catwoman could be just what audiences need—a blend of nostalgia and modern storytelling. Berry’s interest in directing the sequel indicates that she sees potential in the character and the story that was left unfinished in 2004.
In the end, Catwoman serves as a reminder that not all films are judged by their initial success. Sometimes, it takes years for a movie to find its audience and be appreciated for what it is. Whether or not we see a Catwoman 2, the legacy of the 2004 film has certainly evolved, proving that every film has its moment, even if it comes two decades later.
