Batman returns, sort of.

Rating: 7/10 (14 June 2007)

This is the first sequel to "Batman," and Michael Keaton's last outing as the Caped Crusader thus far. With this film, the mood is as eerie as the original film, this time starring Danny DeVito as the Penquin and Michelle Pfieffer as the Catwoman. Here, a corrupted businessman named Max Schreck (Christopher Walken) helps the Penquin to become the mayor of Gotham City; Max also wants to build a power plant that would steal Gotham's electricity. In the mix is Selina Kyle, who ultimately turns into Catwoman. The results lead to a dramatic performance by the tragic, yet frightful Penquin, and the sexy and luring Catwoman. Michael Keaton returns as Batman, and delivered a somber, yet powerful performance, just as he did in the first film. Keaton is, I think, the best of the three actors to play Batman in the first 4 films.
The story is great, with plenty of action and great on-screen comprehension between Batman and Catwoman. She is an anti-hero of some sort, crafty and cunning, yet confused and apologetic. Out of all Batman's villains, Catwoman remains my favorite. Also, I enjoyed the music score by Danny Elfman - catchy, eerie and haunting.
Some downsides are that some of the actions are a little overkill, like the part where one of the Penquin's goons attack the plaza during the Christmas tree lighting ceremony-a little too intense for a holiday scene. And, I think the movie should have focused more on Batman, since he does have the title-role and it would have been great to have his origins and background elaborated more. Batman just appeared on cue and didn't have a really intriguing introduction. And, Penquin took too much screen time; too much emphasis were placed on him.
But overall, a pretty good sequel. Plenty of action!
Grade B-