Batman Returns: The Bat, the Cat, and the Penguin

In Gotham City, a deformed man abandoned at birth, Oswald Cobblepot (The Penguin), is taken in by circus outcasts. Years later, he forms an alliance with corrupt businessman Max Shreck to become the Penguin and reclaim his birthright. Meanwhile, Selina Kyle, Shreck's wronged secretary, is resurrected as the vengeful Catwoman. Both villains emerge to challenge Batman, leading to a dark and chaotic confrontation that tests the limits of heroism and villainy.

Batman Returns was met with mixed to positive reviews, praised for its dark gothic aesthetic, Burton's distinctive directorial style, and the performances of its cast, particularly Michelle Pfeiffer as Catwoman and Danny DeVito as Penguin. However, some critics found the film to be overly dark, violent, and thematically muddled compared to its predecessor, leading to a somewhat divisive reception among audiences and a decline in box office performance relative to the first film.

• Praised for its striking visual design and Burton's unique gothic sensibility.

• Michelle Pfeiffer's performance as Catwoman was widely lauded as a standout.

• Criticized by some for its excessive violence and grim tone, alienating a younger audience.

Google audience: Audience reviews generally appreciate the film's dark fantasy elements, strong visual style, and compelling villain performances, especially Catwoman. However, some viewers found the plot convoluted and the tone excessively bleak.

Nominated for two Academy Awards (Best Visual Effects, Best Makeup).

Michelle Pfeiffer's Catwoman costume was so form-fitting and difficult to wear that she had to be assisted by a dedicated 'cat wrangler' to help her move and manage the suit between takes.