BATMAN

(June 1989, U.S.)

In the Spring of 1989, just like many other anticipating fans, I was shocked and outraged to hear that a silly comedian like Michael Keaton whose best work had been in NIGHT SHIFT (1982) and MR. MOM (1983) was going to play the dark caped crusader. Like many of those same fans, I was also shocked and pleasantly surprised to find that the man was actually able to pull it off. To this day, Keaton remains the second best Batman, in my opinion (after Christian Bale).

BATMAN was the first version to finally show the dark knight in a closer version to what Bob Kane had originally created. He wore a black costume, he was brooding, vengeful, he was finally without Robin, and he kicked ass! But the real indulgence in watching Tim Burton's first film is none other than Jack Nicholson as the Joker. Watching Jack in almost everything he does means you're going to be entertained by his outrageous, over-the-top antics and performances. Now just imagine all of that talent in the hands of a character like the Joker! It's unbelievable to watch and even more fun to listen to.

In thinking of BATMAN, I recall the Summer of 1989 and all of the hardcore action that was on the movie screen the summer. Along side Batman, there was Indiana Jones, James Bond, Star Trek, Ghostbusters and Lethal Weapon. BATMAN also ushered in a new era of superhero films that hadn't seen much action since two preceding Superman sequels that are considered too shameful to even talk about.

It seems that Batman has come a long, long way since 1989. That doesn't mean that the first isn't just as much fun as it used to be. However, if there is a flaw in BATMAN, it's having to listen to any music by Prince following the "Purple Rain" album (back when he was the artist formerly known as the artist formerly known as...ah, whatever!).

Favorite line or dialogue:

Joker: "Tell me something, my friend. You ever dance with the devil in the pale moonlight?"
Bruce Wayne: "What?"
Joker: "I always ask that of all my prey. I just like the sound of it."