As a lifelong fan of Batman comics and films, I can confidently say that Roger Ebert missed the mark with his assessment of Tim Burton’s 1989 Batman film. While it’s true that he was renowned for his keen eye for cinema, even the greatest critics have their blind spots.
Movie enthusiasts may have differing opinions on numerous topics, but there’s a general agreement among them when it comes to the greatest American film critic: Roger Ebert. Over a decade since his passing, the Chicago Sun-Times columnist is still fondly remembered for his profound insights into cinema. Unlike many critics who adjusted their praise or criticism based on popular opinion, Ebert never held back in expressing his views. He would occasionally extol films that were panned by the public or his peers, or criticize those that were widely loved or admired.
Ebert’s diligent work significantly paid off, and halfway through his career, he would become the inaugural film critic to receive the Pulitzer Prize for Criticism. Furthermore, he was the first non-industry figure to be featured in the in-memoriam montage during the Academy Awards.
As any critic should, Ebert loved all genres equally, but he appeared to have a fondness for superhero films. He was impressed by the work done in Blade II, Superman, and Spider-Man 2, among others. Surprisingly, he rebuked Tim Burton’s Batman, balking at the performances and the dark tone it had introduced.
The Joker Runs Circles Around Batman in Batman ’89
In a manner reminiscent of the somber detective comics from early 20th century, Batman is portrayed surrounded by a motley crew consisting of petty thieves, mobsters, women of questionable virtue, cunning peasants, law enforcement, and aristocrats. Notably, Tim Burton’s interpretation primarily revolves around a fresh take on the Joker character, Jack Napier. It’s been observed that the most compelling Batman narratives are those where the villain poses a significant challenge to him. In this story, Napier is an underling of Gotham crime boss Carl Grissom, but their bond has deteriorated due to mutual disdain. Grissom, aware of this, assigns Napier to rob Axis Chemicals for incriminating evidence. However, it’s hinted that Grissom secretly wants Napier dead, as he was involved with his mistress, Alicia Hunt.
In an unusual turn of events, the mischief of the mob gains an extra layer when Batman and Commissioner Gordon, who seems disorganized and distant, make their appearance. Later, Napier falls from a balcony and lands in a tank filled with chemicals. Remarkably, he lives but is left scarred, with pale skin and bright green hair. Despite medical intervention, he ends up with a permanent, wide grin. The narrative then takes an unforeseen turn as Napier undergoes a profound realization, a revelation that forms the foundation of the story in the hands of Burton.
Overwhelmed by madness, he embarks on a criminal spree, earning the nickname “the Joker.” He murders Grissom and his accomplices, then torments Gotham citizens by contaminating personal care items with a lethal substance known as “Smylex.” This toxin induces hysterical laughter that ultimately leads to death. Fortunately, Batman intervenes.
As a movie enthusiast, let me tell you, I was thrilled to witness a tale that Todd Phillips had hinted at but never delivered – and boy, did Tim Burton deliver! In this film, the epic clashes between Batman and the Joker left an indelible mark. One such exchange, “Have you ever danced with the devil in the pale moonlight?” will live on as a legendary quote. Even when Batman is absent, the Joker continues to taunt him, leaving us with the memorable line, “He’s at home… washing his tights.” Unfortunately, Roger Ebert didn’t seem to share our enthusiasm.
Roger Ebert Felt Tim Burton’s Batman Was a Classic Case of Style over Substance
Roger Ebert didn’t hold back when reviewing Batman, giving it just two out of four stars. Instead of a glowing, effusive critique as you might expect, he immediately launched into a scathing analysis. It seemed like his opening was setting up a praise-filled review, but instead, he began to criticize the film.
In the fictional city of Gotham from the Batman series, I’ve encountered one of the most unique and moody settings in films. It’s disappointing that something more impactful doesn’t transpire within it. The film is a brilliant showcase of visual and aesthetic elements, but its narrative and emotional depth leave much to be desired. In essence, Batman delivers an impressive visual spectacle, yet the storyline may not resonate deeply with viewers.
Quite brutal.
As a movie enthusiast, I found myself quite underwhelmed by almost everything in this film. I couldn’t help but lament over the ear-splitting sound effects and the frantic editing pace that often felt more like a distraction than an enhancement to the narrative. Suspense was noticeably absent, and it seemed as though Jack Nicholson’s powerful performance completely overshadowed that of Michael Keaton’s character. A sentiment I believe many of us can share.
The critic additionally pointed out that the movie failed to cover essential aspects. Notably, he referenced a scene where Vicki Vale is escorted to the Batcave by Alfred, only to discover Bruce Wayne is Batman. Yet, she remains unresponsive in this situation. Furthermore, he drew parallels between the film and both Superman and Indiana Jones, ultimately finding that it didn’t provoke the same level of exhilaration as those iconic characters did.
Time Has Proved Roger Ebert Wrong
Roger Ebert may have accurately predicted the fate of Batman if it had followed the path of the Joel Schumacher films, fading into obscurity. However, contrary to Ebert’s assessment, this particular version of Batman is still fondly remembered by many franchise enthusiasts. Ebert believed that Michael Keaton’s portrayal of Batman was unimpressive, but this interpretation is often considered the best. The excitement among fans when it was announced that Keaton would be reprising his role in “The Flash” demonstrates that the character has been missed with affection.
Moreover, the impact of Batman is still being widely noticed. The movie’s success led to Warner Bros. Animation creating the critically acclaimed Batman: The Animated Series. As a result, the long-lasting DC Animated Universe came into existence. To date, DC’s animated productions have garnered more praise from critics, delivering better narratives and character portrayals than their live-action counterparts.
Primarily, nearly every significant Batman movie or TV series has consistently upheld the brooding atmosphere established by Tim Burton’s Batman. Previously, Batman was often portrayed as a comical character due to shows like the Adam West series and certain comics that strayed from the 1940s noir style. However, after this film, Gotham was no longer a playground. Instead, it became a decaying metropolis in dire need of rehabilitation, a depiction that has persisted ever since.
Speaking to the Los Angeles Times, Tim Burton joked:
After playing Batman, it seems I paved the way for the era of dark and serious comic book movies. It appears my work has influenced others to follow suit with this trend.
Going beyond just its narrative and cinematic quality, the release of Batman significantly influenced the film industry in various ways. For instance, it prompted the British Board of Film Classification to introduce the “12” age rating because its content didn’t quite fit the criteria for either a “PG” or a “15.” Furthermore, it played a crucial role in emphasizing the importance of box office opening weekend figures. Additionally, Batman is credited with popularizing against-the-type casting, as Michael Keaton was initially considered an unconventional choice for the role. Lastly, it contributed to shortening the gap between a movie’s theater release and its availability on video.
Currently, comic writers can’t help but draw inspiration from ’80s movies. In early 2024, John Jackson Miller’s novel Batman: Resurrection hit the shelves. This book serves as a follow-up to the film, unfolding amidst the narrative gaps between Batman and Batman Returns. The Dark Knight is seen working diligently to dismantle what remains of the Joker’s organization, while simultaneously uncovering hints that suggest the Joker may not have perished after all. Prior to this, a limited comic series titled Batman ’89 was launched.
It’s clear that Tim Burton’s Batman wasn’t as ordinary as Roger Ebert initially perceived it to be. Fortunately, his views evolved over time, and he eventually came to admire Batman, starting with Batman Begins before showering The Dark Knight with praise at a later stage.
Batman
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2024-11-10 22:32