Review of Batman Forever (1995) by Andy W — 20 Jan 2013

A complete opposite direction than that of Burton, but an innovative one nevertheless. This film is frequently attacked for, in a way, reverting Batman back into a campy production as it was in the 60's. I disagree wholeheartedly and see many strengths in Schumacher's Batman.

I applaud the new comic book-like atmosphere this film presents. The sets were amazing, effective, and really added to the overall mischievous mood in this film. I also feel Val Kilmer did a better job of representing Batman than Michael Keaton. Kilmer's Bruce Wayne was conflicted and tormented by the death of his parents. This provided a great deal of depth and a better-developed Bruce Wayne. Contrary to Keaton's Bruce Wayne who was constantly overshadowed by outstanding villains, Kilmer's tormented Bruce Wayne allowed him to hold his own in this film, especially when competing with talents like Jim Carrey.

I really enjoyed Tommy Lee Jones and Jim Carrey in this film. I felt their performance was outstanding albeit over-acted at times; however, their interpretations of the classic villains Riddler and Two-Face, are definitely not true to the characters presented in the comics. Going a new direction with a character is fine and I believe an actor does not have to be restricted by existing literature on the character, but Carrey and Jones were not original in their depiction of Two-Facer and Riddler, and acted in a way that called to mind the Joker. Yes, they were very entertaining and funny, but different villains should have been selected for this film to better suit Carrey and Jone's style of acting in Batman Forever. Heck, bring the Joker back if you wanna act like that boys!

Overall, I really liked this film and it was immensely entertaining. A few side notes though: the new Batmobile really sucks. What's with the Blue lights? Way too ostentatious to be a Batman vehicle. And what is up with riddler's question-mark pyjamas? Did he get those at Wal-Mart? If you can ignore those things, you'll probably really like the movie, if not at least be entertained.