Review of Batman: The Killing Joke (2016) by Zain V — 24 Jul 2016

Batman: The Killing Joke film is an adaptation of the graphic novel of the same name written by Alan Moore. I had the great honor of actually seeing the film in theaters on the big screen and I will say, it was probably the best way to experience it! How was it though?

Alright, so I actually read the graphic novel the night before so I knew what all happens. And honestly, I think the movie holds pretty true to the original story. I also liked the added arch with Bat-Girl and Batman. Now, yes, there is a part in the film that isn't in the comic, but at the same time, some people are taking it a little too far. By this I mean they just aren't being mature about it. The part of the film I'm referring to is where Batman and Bat-Girl have what seems to be a sexual relationship at one point. Now this is only focused on 5% of the film, but it's got people talking. Myself personally, I don't think it's worth all the talk about it. I mean, yes it was a little out of nowhere and I wasn't expecting it, but at the same time in today's society, that stuff is everywhere you look now-a-days. So, yeah, it came out of nowhere and caught me off guard a little bit, but I don't feel it needs to be blown out of proportion.

It was nice to hear Mark Hamill and Kevin Conroy voicing The Joker and Batman again. I really think those two actors are the defining Batman and Joker to most Batman fans, they are to me anyways. Tara Strong was also a great treat to have back as Bat-Girl. Really all the cast members of this were great, as always. I mean, it was pretty much the team from Batman: TAS who came back.

The animation of this film was actually really well done. I got the sense of modern DC animated movies mixed with that of the Animated Series animation. It was stunning to look at and I give full props to the artists, because they really did a great job!

So this is a pretty short review compared to the others, but my overall thoughts on the film are that it was a good adaptation of the graphic novel and it actually kept me interested. People have already said that it's a huge let down and to that I say, eh not really. It's not totally perfect, no. But it's not bad or not awesome. Bottom line is this; if you want to buy this film when it comes out on Digital release tomorrow (July 26th, 2016), then do it. I feel it is worth buying. And if where you live happens to have a theater who is showing it again July 26th, then I would definitely recommend you check this out on the big screen. I really think that made the experience that much better. So overall, it's actually a decent film and it gives justice to the original comic, maybe minus the sex thing between Bat-Girl and Batman. Go see this in theaters if you can, if not, I would recommend viewing this on digital release! It is worth the watch despite what others are saying.