Batman Returns
Batman Returns

Batman Returns

1992Movie126 minEnglish

The monstrous Penguin, who dwells in the sewers beneath Gotham, joins up with corrupt mayoral candidate Max Shreck to topple the Batman once and for all. But when Shreck's timid assistant Selina Kyle finds out, and Shreck tries to kill her, she's transformed into the sexy Catwoman. She teams up with the Penguin and Shreck to destroy Batman, but sparks fly unexpectedly when she confronts the caped crusader.

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Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes75%
Metacritic62/100
Google Users77%
Director: Tim BurtonGenres: Action, Crime, Fantasy

Plot Summary

In Gotham City, the wealthy and eccentric businessman Max Shreck is about to complete a power plant deal. When he's seemingly murdered by the Penguin, a deformed man raised in the sewers, Batman is implicated. However, the Penguin, with Shreck's manipulative aid, becomes a public figure and mayoral candidate, while Shreck's equally sinister associate, Selina Kyle, is transformed into the vengeful Catwoman after a fall from a window. Both Catwoman and the Penguin plot their revenge against Gotham's elite and Batman himself.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, 'Batman Returns' garnered a mixed-to-positive reception from critics, often praised for its dark, gothic aesthetic and strong performances, particularly from Michelle Pfeiffer and Danny DeVito. However, some critics found the film's tone too dark and violent for a mainstream superhero movie, and the plot was considered by some to be overly convoluted. Audiences were divided, with some appreciating its unique artistic vision and others finding it too grim.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its striking visuals and Tim Burton's distinct gothic style.
  • Michelle Pfeiffer's performance as Catwoman was a standout, lauded for its complexity and intensity.
  • Criticized by some for its overly dark themes and perceived lack of a clear narrative focus.

Google audience: Google users generally appreciated the film's distinctive visual style and the compelling performances, particularly Pfeiffer's. However, many found the story to be excessively dark and somewhat disjointed, leading to mixed feelings about its overall entertainment value.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for two Academy Awards: Best Visual Effects and Best Makeup. Also received Saturn Award nominations for Best Costume Design and Best Fantasy Film.

Fun Fact

Michelle Pfeiffer famously used a leather costume that was so tight, she could barely move and had to be assisted to the restroom by crew members.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

3 reviews
Rob

Rob

Tim Burton's original Batman definitely deserved a worthy sequel. Unfortunately, this just doesn't cut it. Keaton's Batman deserved more grit and drama, not corny comical antics. It's worth a look, but keep your expectations low.
Andre Gonzales

Andre Gonzales

The only other great batman movie. Not as much action but still was a really good movie.
The Movie Mob

The Movie Mob

**Batman Returns overplays the comic book campiness of the decade and Burton's strange style but is balanced by astonishing performances and a more contained superhero story.** Warner Bros was quick to begin production on a sequel to Bat...