Review of Batman: The Killing Joke (2016) by David P — 25 May 2018

Batman: The Killing Joke is a flawed work and a bitterly divisive film among fans. I've never read the source material from which this film is based on, but from what I understand, it is a faithful adaptation.

The problem is, too faithful, and it doesn't expand upon it or bring out the source material's spirit. Many felt it was just a bland rehash. It has also been harshly criticized for the Batgirl plot, which many felt reduced her to a useless idiot.

That being said, I rather enjoyed this film. It certainly has its issues, but my issues aren't really what fans gripe out (Probably as a benefit, as, again, I've never read the source material).

The Batgirl plot feels a bit out of place in this film, as if it to increase the running time. It never gels with the main plot of the film which deals with exploring the Joker more, as well as Batman's own psyche.

I didn't hate the plot - it just felt like two films spliced together to make a more proper running time. While the film has its hiccups, I found it to be a compelling film that does a terrific job of exploring the Joker and Batman, as well as their eternal frenemy relationship in which they can't seem to function without each other.

They are forever connected, whether they like it or not. While it doesn't reach the heights of say, Batman: Mask of the Phantasm (My personal favorite of any Batman film and one of my all-time favorites of super hero films), I think The Killing Joke is a terrific film that will perhaps grow in stature in future years.

Not misunderstood classic, mind you, but perhaps enough for a solid cult following.