Release date: June 23, 1989 (United States)
Runtime: 126 minutes
Rating: MPAA – PG-13
Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures
Director: Tim Burton
Writers: Sam Hamm, Warren Skaaren; based on characters by Bob Kane & Bill Finger
Producers: Jon Peters, Peter Guber
Executive Producers: Benjamin Melniker, Michael E. Uslan
Lead Roles:
- Michael Keaton (Bruce Wayne / Batman)
- Jack Nicholson (Jack Napier / The Joker)
- Kim Basinger (Vicki Vale)
Supporting Cast (Key):
- Robert Wuhl (Alexander Knox)
- Pat Hingle (Commissioner Gordon)
- Billy Dee Williams (Harvey Dent)
- Michael Gough (Alfred Pennyworth)
- Jack Palance (Carl Grissom)
Review Summary
Tim Burton’s Batman modernized the world’s perception of the iconic Caped Crusader while still staying true at heart to the long-running television series’ style of portrayal. While catching up to the contemporary comic market with a more morose depiction of Gotham City, it maintained the humorous tone that audiences had grown up with.
Ignoring the obvious flaws in costume design—such as the immovable neck piece—the role was carried out flawlessly by actor Michael Keaton, both as Batman and Bruce Wayne.
Jack Nicholson’s persona was perfectly conducive to the Joker’s insane mentality and seemed to naturally assume the character’s essence from Cesar Romero’s Joker without overembellishing or outright mirroring his performance.
Commissioner Gordon was cast perfectly, and new fans were introduced to Vicki Vale by the lovely Kim Basinger.
Danny Elfman’s original score carried forward a new musical legacy later adopted by the highly successful Batman: The Animated Series. And, of course, an original soundtrack by Prince rounded out one of the best comic-to-movie adaptations of all time.
Formal Critique
Spoiler
In review….
Prime Video: Batman (1989)
IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/title/batman
Rotten Tomatoes: https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/batman
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