You Won’t Believe What Happens in This Disturbing Batman Returns Scene

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Among the various live-action Batman films, Tim Burton’s Batman Returns is particularly distinctive in its genre. While some may think that the sequel to Burton’s successful 1989 blockbuster hasn’t received as much appreciation as its predecessor, it remains an engaging movie (with elements that influenced Robert Eggers’ Nosferatu). However, there is one specific scene in this film that is exceptionally unsettling – even for Burton’s standards. After revisiting the movie, I find myself continually haunted by that particular moment.

What’s The Batman Returns Scene, And Why Is It Disturbing?

To put it simply, Tim Burton’s films are known for their unique and eerie scenes that often leave an impact. Even his Batman movies have instances that might catch you off guard. For example, the Smylex commercial from the 1989 film is genuinely unsettling. The main antagonist in Burton’s 1992 superhero movie was Oswald Cobblepot, better known as Penguin, portrayed by Danny DeVito. Unlike his comic book counterpart, this Penguin isn’t a sophisticated gangster. Instead, he’s a grotesque and crude character with a bird-like appearance.

Halfway through the movie, the repulsive antagonist, who appeared to have just eaten raw fish, left me breathless. In this particular scene, a shady businessman named Max Shreck persuades Oswald to run for mayor. At first, Shreck presents Oswald to his two image consultants, Jen and Josh. During their conversation with Cobblepot, Josh makes a rude comment about the lack of mirrors in the sewer, which Penguin initially dismisses with a laugh, stating that his nose could be bleeding profusely. However, he soon attacks Josh and bites him.

This incident is quite disturbing and gory. Just the sight of blood spurting from Josh’s nose would make anyone with a weak stomach feel uncomfortable. What makes it even more bizarre is that Cobblepot seems unfazed by it all, and within minutes he makes an inappropriate advance towards Jen while she attends to Josh. Danny DeVito and Steve Witting (as Josh) deliver the scene flawlessly, and the makeup artists have done a commendable job. However, despite the excellent execution, this scene sends shivers down my spine.

There Are Other Crazy Moments In Batman Returns

More on Batman Returns

Batman Returns: 10 Behind-The-Scenes Facts About Tim Burton’s DC Movie Sequel

Historically, Gotham City in the DC Universe has been portrayed as having a significantly higher crime rate compared to other cities. However, I believe Tim Burton’s interpretation of it can be quite disturbingly dark at times. This is evident from the beginning of Batman Returns, where the Red Triangle gang brutally assault citizens during a ceremony. The film also contains a very grim scene where the Penguin pushes the Ice Princess to her death, and viewers even witness her body hitting the ground. Furthermore, Catwoman (Michelle Pfeiffer) shockingly electrocutes Shreck, leaving his charred remains later on in the movie.

It’s likely that spectators will realize, if anything, that the director of Beetlejuice didn’t sacrifice his artistic principles while making these blockbusters. Both of his Batman films align perfectly with his inventive spirit, a fact he can certainly take pride in despite having to address executives.

To this day, I can’t help but be astounded that Daniel Waters truly included the gruesome nose-biting scene in the movie. Yet, my admiration for the film remains undiminished, and I’m thrilled to see it being reevaluated by some audiences years after the controversy surrounding it and its creators has subsided. If you’re a bit squeamish, don’t worry – just remember to shield your eyes when Penguin goes for the unfortunate character’s nose in a particularly uncomfortable moment. And with a Max subscription, you can easily stream this intriguing film whenever you’d like!

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2025-02-16 00:07