Review of Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 1 (2012) by Sidney S — 23 Jun 2013

This is a review for both parts 1&2 (since flixster does not seem to have Part 2 in its database?) The Dark Knight Returns is a genius adaption of what is quite possibly the definitive Batman story, and no doubt one of the darkest. A Batman that is very different then what you are used to, he's older and much more brutal then ever, haunted by a city that seems to get worse he is forced back into action against the laws of the president that are enforced by a now government employed Superman. 55 year old Bruce Wayne takes the law into his own hands in Gotham once again to ensure that his city is once again safe. Gotham is now a crime ridden city like never before and is gang territory over run by the "mutants.".

The animation is excellent and the voice acting specifically by Peter Weller as Batman is perfect. The story is just an awesome story of our hero and is quite dark and very personal. The first half showing Batman's triumphant return and stand against the group of mutants which divides the city whether or not thinking Batman's return is good or not. Part 1 has a shocking cliffhanger ending where a catatonic Joker reawakens after hearing of Batman's return.

Part 2 is purely amazing showing the operatic finale and very personal conflicts between Batman and his ultimate foe the Joker, a rivalry that comes to a fiery end. Batman's fight with Superman is very well done. Bruce's plan itself is genius upon film's end which will make the Dark Knight legacy live on. the Dark Knight Returns not only is one of the character's defining moments in the comics but is as well a greatly adapted animated film. Very well done by Warners and DC.