Review of Batman: Under the Red Hood (2010) by Matt P — 06 Dec 2010

It would appear that every time a successful Batman movie is released in Hollywood and turns out to be a smash hit, there's destined to be a follow up, straight to video animated movie. Under the Red Hood is just that.

But don't let the fact that this is animated fool you. This one sort of breaks tradition of the older features(Mask of Phantasm, SubZero), and goes for an entirely new look. From the opening credits with dark and quick-pacing sinister music it's obvious the inspiration was sparked by Christopher Nolan's dark masterpieces.

In this sense it serves as a spin-off. That is, if the spin off had several plot-holes and random characters. I find that The Red Hood is more of a lose adaptation of several accounts derived from the comic books.

Such stories like 'The Joker'(voiced very well by John DiMaggio), beating Robin to death were only heard of in the comics, but never realized and brought to life. Here it seems all to real, as the events are transformed with smooth, 2D animation that looks pretty awesome.

It's not as polished as the animated series nor any big-budget theater release film, but then again the crudeness matches the style. The characters get sweaty, dirty, and even bloody to where we can truly see it.

The story is also very gripping and seems like a combination of Nolan's genial work and the classic text of Bob Kane. The result is an all out-smashing hit movie with great voice talents(like whoever voiced Black Mask brilliantly),and a sinister story only a true Batman fan could love.

Now this movie is not for everyone, and I'm sure some people probably haven't even heard of it. But whatever, their loss. The Red Hood is better then half the animated crap-fests featured today.