Carrzinho Review of Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 1

Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 1 (2012 Video)

Disappointingly it's largely a set up for part 2

[6/10 · 6 August 2019]

Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 1 Batman returns after an absence of 10 years. Now 55 can he still cut it? The violence of the gang (mutants) is far darker and sinister than usual though mostly reported rather than seen. This I suppose begets a much more heavy handed Batman. Clashes with baddies and police leave broken bones and obvious trauma all over the place. There is little to the leader of the mutants meaning he won't be particularly memorable. Robin transforms from completely put upon teenage victim, to entirely useless Robin, to largely ineffective Robin, to taking on the Mutants, in double quick (unconvincing) time. Harvey Dent appears too, but this seems just a set up to introduce his psychologist. His story is a daily damp squib and a missed opportunity. Commissioner Gordon seems to just be setting up the new commissioner for part 2. I did like the tone and in some respects, though out of kilter with normal imaginings of Batman, I liked this version. It's probably the most credible version. Unfortunately the story doesn't share this credulity with ne'er do wells seemingly walking the streets waiting for a messiah. At 1hr 16 it's not long but doesn't really cover much ground. I felt the could have used the time better in preparing for part two. Disappointing. SIX.