Review of Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker (2000) by Sam R — 16 Aug 2015

"Oh you must mean Junior!".

"This is Spider-Man" was my first reaction to seeing the new look 'Batman' in the 'Batman Beyond return Of The Joker'. Cocky and quipy isn't something I'd describe 'Batman' as usually, but with Bruce's protege 'Terry' it works. Beyond was a new take on 'Batman' so a new, different personality in the suit makes sense. But there's still some of that classic 'Batman' in there and that's what makes it works so well.

The jarring personality in the suit couldn't be more different than Bruce's grounded serious outlook. it doesn't start too hot with bar bones backgrounds and some rather lacklustre villains in 'The Jokers'. It didn't seem to jive with the generally well thought-out style of the Beyond series. But it quickly (to my surprise) sets things in the right motion. Given the title it's obvious in Batman Beyond Joker's gone and though bits and pieces it reveals that he's dead so when someone 'claiming' to be the 'Joker' turns up it has 'Bruce' perplexed and scared.

It's a more grown up Batman tale that falls in the line of adults and kids, there's not blood as such and it's full of bright and colourful character designs. Yet has a well thought out story, bringing in an older 'Batgirl' now commissioner and 'Robin'. As she explains the story of the Joker to 'Terry'. Which could have been bland but it's a fantastic flashback showing all the signs of classic 'Joker' with his patented psychological damage and playful acts of violence. Its strength really is the story (when it starts) making it more adult (Even if the way the Joker is brought back is a little off and easy.) without alienating it's younger audience.

The background can be a little flat, the start and teh night club being two that stick out like a sore thumb but the animation quality is nice and the futuristic city makes the unique look of the new Batsuit fit - akin to a flying squirrel. Like the series simple but effective.

'The Return Of Joker' does get off to a shaky start with some dull background design and 'The Jokers' are a bit boring. But when it sets the real one up it comes into its own. Bringing the old 'Gotham' of 'Bruce', Barbara, Tim and the joker as the central point of this new version and new Batman works well - utilising some fantastic flashbacks scenes showing the Joker at his most psychotic. 'Terry' being different rather than the same old serious 'Batman' makes it feel like he is a different breed but cut from a similar cloth.