Val Kilmer reported to be a top contender, though just days after Keaton dropped out, Kilmer was cast. Kilmer took the role without even knowing who the new director was and without reading the script. Released in June 1995, "Batman Forever" was a success at the box office, despite receiving mixed reviews from critics. There was debate about Kilmer's performance: some critics, like "The New York Times" Janet Maslin, thought Kilmer was a poor successor to Keaton in the part; while others, such as Roger Ebert, had kind words for Kilmer. "Batman" creator Bob Kane said in a "Cinescape" interview that of
Val Kilmer actress Joanne Whalley from March 1988 to February 1996. The two met while working together on the film "Willow". The couple had two children: a daughter, Mercedes (b. October 29, 1991), and a son, Jack (b. June 6, 1995). Kilmer has gotten into feuds with some of the actors with whom he has worked, notably "The Island of Dr. Moreau" co-star Marlon Brando and "Red Planet" and "Heat" co-star Tom Sizemore. Other actors have noted that he prepares for his roles extensively and meticulously. Irwin Winkler (director of "At First Sight") talked about his decision to hire Kilmer. "I'd heard