Batman - The Dark Knight Returns (Part II)

Original graphic novel by Frank Miller & Klaus Janson
Directed by Jay Olivia
Written for film format by Bob Goodman

With the aftermath of the gangs ransacking Gotham, Batman has cleaned up the streets. But not without consequences, as those said gangs take up icons as protectors. Within Arkham Asylum, the "Joker" (voiced by Michael Emerson) is just released under watch from his psychiatrist (and a deal to make to the public towards his freedom). On another side of the states, a blue and red cape wearing character (voiced by Mark Valley) is offered a job to protect his home planet and country if he takes up arms against an immediate threat.


As the Joker leaves bodies behind, Batman gives chase one last time against the clown. It becomes a fight to their last breath versus Gotham's finest (and their new Commissioner). Although the classic villain was a longtime rival to the "Dark Knight" in this chapter he is playing "Cat and Mouse" with dire consequences.
Who is the victor?

After the first half, its Clark versus outside forces in a "one man armada" versus a fleet of ships and warheads. With the winning side keeping peace and freedom, outside eyes experience a massive blackout with Bruce in recovery. Battered, but for from defeated, Superman absorbs an ounce of energy from the Earth to fight again.

Remember that deal Clark made awhile ago? Promise kept, but who will win or die?

I have to admit seeing both parts I&II in a animated epic is worth the wait. The story is dark, like most Detective Comics cases, but this one is by far the roughest, and most messiest of them all. But it still holds a few strings in storytelling on how to unravel a mystery, what drives Batman to be a hero (without powers). Awhile back I read the book with fresh eyes, and it him me deep as a reader. But seeing it in motion, it plays out exactly as it did on the printed page.

Aside from the fact that all is gloom and doom, it does paint a picture in how things were when the original novel was released. And perhaps things haven't changed all that much, its just how we feel about everything in the present. Like the media, scrutiny, and politics, it all played a part in shaping DKR's storyline. Maybe we're in need of a new mini-series like it, or something that can redefine this new generation for what's to come.