Director: Sam Liu
Writers: Brian Azzarello, Brian Bolland (based on the graphic novel illustrated by)
Stars: Kevin Conroy, Mark Hamill, Tara Strong

“Adapted from the graphic novel of the same title, ‘Batman: The Killing Joke’ delves into The Dark Knight’s relentless pursuit of The Joker. As the notorious villain escapes Arkham Asylum, he kidnaps, humiliates, and inflicts torment upon Commissioner Gordon. Despite not having previously delved into the graphic novel, I initially had reservations about comprehending the intricate relationship between Batman and The Joker at this juncture. Nevertheless, approaching the film with an open mind, I was pleasantly surprised by my overall experience with this animated feature.

It is worth noting that ‘Batman: The Killing Joke’ did not fully meet the expectations of devoted fans of the graphic novel. Paradoxically, for many, the film seemed to be a faithful adaptation of the iconic work, adding an element of ambiguity to the situation.

Running at a concise 72 minutes, the film allocates a significant portion of its initial half to the character of Barbara Gordon and her struggles as Batgirl. While the intention here is clear – to establish character dynamics and provide insight into their daily lives, particularly their nocturnal crime-fighting routines – the pacing felt somewhat sluggish until we are finally introduced to The Joker around the 30-minute mark.

One standout aspect of the film is the masterful use of interspersed flashback scenes that explore The Joker’s descent into madness and malevolence. These flashbacks seamlessly integrate with the primary narrative, enhancing the viewer’s understanding without disrupting the central plot. Surprisingly, The Joker emerges as the most well-developed character in the film. Mark Hamill’s impeccable voice acting brings this iconic character to life, crafting the quintessential comic book antagonist. Hamill’s sheer energy breathes vitality into the chaotic clown.

Conversely, Batman appears more subdued and, frankly, less engaging. During the first 30 minutes, his dialogue is sparse, and when he does speak, it often veers towards condescension, particularly directed at Barbara Gordon. This underutilization of Kevin Conroy’s talents feels like a missed opportunity. While it’s evident that the film prioritizes The Joker, Batman’s character depth seems lacking.

In terms of visuals, ‘Batman: The Killing Joke’ excels in capturing the essence of a living, breathing comic book. The filmmakers adeptly translate the feel and aesthetics, embracing the darker, grittier tones of the source material. Sam Liu deserves commendation for successfully translating this visual appeal to the screen. The film’s appearance is a highlight, though the script leaves something to be desired. It’s Mark Hamill and Kevin Conroy who elevate the film, rescuing it from its narrative shortcomings.

In conclusion, ‘Batman: The Killing Joke’ offers a mostly enjoyable experience, despite its imperfections. While it has its flaws, it is far from a subpar movie. I would still recommend giving it a watch, particularly for those intrigued by the compelling dynamic between Batman and The Joker, brought to life by the talented voices of Hamill and Conroy.”

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