BATMAN BEYOND:RETURN OF THE JOKER

 This new Batman animated feature is terrific!  Anyone, disinterested in seeing animated film versions of “Batman” will immediately become a fan after viewing “BATMAN BEYOND: RETURN OF THE JOKER”.  The “Batman” legend has been re-examined here, and there are new characters, intelligent twists, and great dialogue throughout the film. 

Taking place in the future, Bruce Wayne has to deal with old age and the greedy partner he now has in Wayne Industries, trying to oust him out.  When a kid stumbles on the Batcave, the “Batman” identity is assumed by him.  While Wayne is taken aback at first, he sees the importance of the gauntlet being passed, and this new kid, Terry, makes for a great “Batman”!  To begin with, his bat suit is far more advanced than Wayne’s original one.  Now, “Batman” can fly, swim, and much more, all with staggering affect!  Furthermore, this “Batman” has a slicker “air” about him. He dispatches villains with a “James Bond” like style and wit!  There’s nothing “pansy-ish” about this Batman, and if you’re on the wrong side, you have a lot of reason to be afraid from him!  Mark Hamill supplies the voice of the Joker, and he too, is wonderful!  The sub-plots involving the Joker and knowledge of various identities, all somehow come together, to make this a thoroughly engrossing tale that can be enjoyed by viewers, young and old.  The only warning:  WARNER BROS previously released an “edited” version of “RETURN OF THE JOKER”.  This is the “un-edited” version and there’s a “torture” sequence that’s surprisingly graphic to watch! It may be too intense for younger viewers! 

Although the box states the film is in full-screen, it actually has been preserved with its correct 1.85:1 aspect ratio.  It isn’t enhanced with 16:9, however, it looks great! 
Even with the “darker” look that the film intentionally has, there is an elaborate color scheme throughout the film, and colors have sensational clarity.  There’s terrific depth to every scene, and this transfer perfectly compliments the 3 dimensional “design” of the film.  Contrast is excellent, and the blacks and grays are sensational here! 

WARNER BROS. has presented this release in DOLBY DIGITAL 5.1!  It’s an aggressive soundmix, and the surrounds are used effectively throughout!  The musical score is also impressive, and boosts the film’s tension at appropriate moments. 

WARNER BROS. has gone overboard here and even offered a commentary with the film’s creators, Paul Dini, Bruce Timm and Glen Murakami.  Although the “edited” version also had a commentary, this one is different, and offers more revelation about the “Batman” legend, and the creative process in general. It’s a terrific commentary!

“BEYOND BATMAN BEYOND DOCUMENTARY” is a mini-documentary, consisting of interviews, offering more insight into the “BATMAN:Beyond” legend. 

 A segment offering storyboards is offered, as well as a music video, and character bios.