Review- Batman: The Killing Joke (6/10)

Let's get something straight here: I enjoyed this film simply because it's Batman. I've always been a DC fan, and will always have a soft spot for the world's greatest detective. That being said, I feel like Batman: The Killing Joke works better on the printed page than on screen.

The animation was top notch, and the voice actors were superb. Total callback to the animated series from the 90's. Kevin Conroy, Tara Strong, and Mark Hamill were absolutely stunning! They made the whole piece come together. Without them the film would not have held together.

Speaking of Tara Strong, I really liked the inclusion of Batgirl's story line and the first half of the film. I felt that it fleshed out her character rather well and made people who aren't as familiar with the comics feel a connection to her that they normally wouldn't have felt.

Now the second half could have been better. Plot-wise, the Joker's trying to prove something by bringing a sane man down to his level? I get it. But it also feels kind of low key for the theatricality of the supervillain and also leaves quite a few questions unanswered. How did he escape from Arkham? Why is he all of a sudden trying to prove something to Gordon? I could have used more plot from him and less backstory.

I think because the Joker was voiced my Hamill, I anticipated more action and over the top situations that we've grown accustomed to from the animated series and video game portrayals. He was excellent, but I think his involvment made expectations too high for this feature film.

Like an A-List actor in a B-Budget movie, Mark, Kevin and Tara shine like stars in the night sky. I would completely recommend this film for all DC fans and comic geeks alike. Is it the best DC animated movie out there? No. But it's a great watch from beginning to end.