Maltin-style review

Rating: Null/10 (24 January 2001)

Very rarely do movie sequels ever match the grandeur of the originals. Tim Burton's BATMAN RETURNS, however, does so with gusto. Hardly standing on the shoulders of its record-breaking 1989 predecessor, this mesmerizing blend of Gothicism, film noir, and cartoon chaos is a classic in its own right. High drama, uncompromising humor, and lots of cool things to look at highlight this tale of Batman's war against The Penguin, Catwoman, and a fascist businessman (Christopher Walken). Not even a shaky plot, some absurd set-pieces, and Burton's trademark perversity (much worse here than in many of his other films) seriously mar this wildly original movie that should prove once and for all that superheroes aren't just for kids.