Essentially, the end of the franchise

Rating: 8/10 (3 August 1999)

Batman Returns marks the end of one of the most potentially profitable franchises for Warner Bros. While the character development may not have been as stylish as the first, the somber tone that the series is known for remains intact (aided by Danny Elfman's spectacular score). This sequel narrowly edges out the original as my favorite in the series. Perhaps the fact that this film deals primarily with the "dark side" of human nature is why it did not appeal to most audiences. It's a shame that Joel Schumacher sold out the series by slowly replacing the drama behind the Batman story with the cartoonish claptrap that puts merchandise revenue in W.B.'s pockets. If they choose to do a fifth, it would probably be best to use Tim Burton's "gothic" Gotham City and the "Batman: Year One" plot line. If not, way to go Warner Bros. for destroying the Dark Knight.