Batman (1989) Movie Review

In the 1989 Batman movie, a vigilante exacts his justice upon criminals in the fictional Gotham City. However, a crazy clown comes to match him, leaving the vigilante to stop his plan of chemical warfare. 

The film is a bit narratively lax, unfortunately. The film rarely has a central character; bouncing back between the titular character and the clown antagonist and the human journalists without much care. 

The film is undeniably visually effective though; the production design and matte paintings are top notch. Despite the narrative problems mentioned earlier, the film does feature some surprising acting performances (Michael Keaton appears miscast at first glance, but does a solid job, and Jack Nicholson is great as always). 

The narrative problems might be enough to dissuade most serious cinema experts, but the brand of Batman might arguably be enough to carry it. It does also deviate from it's source material if only mildly (Batman's a killer here) but again, the brand is strong here. 

Despite some narrative problems and small source deviations, the film is still delightful fodder for fans of the Batman character in any form. And, going even further, can elicit nostalgia for those old enough (or young enough) to remember it. 

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