Michelle Pfeiffer calls 'Batman Returns' Catwoman role 'a dream come true'

Michelle Pfeiffer has reflected on her iconic turn as Catwoman in Tim Burton’s Batman Returns, saying the experience was both “a dream come true” and surprisingly “intimate,” despite the film being one of the defining superhero blockbusters of its era.

The 68-year-old actress played Selina Kyle/Catwoman opposite Michael Keaton in the 1992 film, which remains one of the most celebrated entries in the Batman franchise.

Speaking to Deadline, Pfeiffer said the production process felt markedly different from modern superhero films, particularly those produced under the Marvel banner.

“And a very different process than Marvel movies… Batman was actually very intimate,” she said, noting that the film relied heavily on practical sets and in-camera effects rather than digital enhancement.

“There weren’t really special effects, no CGI. It was all in real time. I don’t remember there being any green screen,” she added. “It was just like making a regular movie dressed up and weird.”

Pfeiffer said that approach created a grounded, hands-on filming environment that made the experience feel more personal than many large-scale productions today.

In Batman Returns, directed by Tim Burton, Pfeiffer’s performance as Catwoman became one of the most enduring portrayals of the character in pop culture history.

The role was originally intended for Annette Bening, who had to withdraw due to pregnancy, while other high-profile names, including Cher and Madonna, were reportedly considered before Pfeiffer was ultimately cast.

Following the film’s success, discussions emerged about a standalone Catwoman project, though it never materialized. 

Pfeiffer has previously said she would be open to reprising the role if given the opportunity.

In a past interview, she said she had been “sad” when filming ended, adding that she was just beginning to fully enjoy the character before production wrapped.

Pfeiffer currently stars in the Apple TV+ series Margo’s Got Money Troubles, where she plays Shyanne, marking her first on-screen collaboration with her husband, showrunner David E. Kelley.