Surreal and menacing, powered by a wonderful Michelle Pfeiffer

Rating: 9/10 (26 July 2008)

A terrific reply by Burton to those who thought that 'Batman' was all style no substance. Here we have a genuinely gripping story and one of the best female performances of the decade- by Michelle Pfeiffer. She is positively luminous as Catwoman and sizzles on screen. The Penguin, played by an OTT Danny deVito is less successful by comparison.
Batman Returns is surreal and menacing in equal measure. Upping the weirdo quotient is Chris Walken, who alas has little to do. The camera-work and production design are an improvement on the first film. This film has both style and substance. Only in the loud climax does Burton fall prey to commercial instincts and substitutes razzmatazz for action. Also note that the film is simply not suitable for younger children and most of its themes will simply go over their heads.
Bottomline:9/10 Brilliant Pfeiffer in vastly superior sequel