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Messages - The Dark Knight

#1
Graphic Novels / Re: Batman: Year Two
Fri, 28 Mar 2025, 21:17
Quote from: Slash Man on Fri, 21 Mar  2025, 00:00Specifically relating to this topic, I thought it was crazy that Bruce kept Joe Chill's gun from the crime scene in Year Two, but that was already explained in this issue that it was thrown through a fence.
I don't mind that. It's in character for Batman to keep mementos of tragedy. It doesn't get any bigger than Chill's gun in term of motivation. Actually using it is another matter.
#2
Graphic Novels / Re: Batman: Year Two
Tue, 18 Mar 2025, 08:23
Exactly. The Reaper concept has a lot of potential but it's not explored in an interesting or even logical way. I think the better story would've been Batman beating The Reaper in all of their encounters with the latter becoming more desperate and increasing his methods, frustrated that the gun-less rival is holding his own. Reaper eventually fades away into irrelevance with Batman's modus operandi validated. Batman grabbing a gun after getting bested by the Reaper feels random and extreme considering what preceded the story.
#3
Graphic Novels / Re: Batman: Year Two
Mon, 17 Mar 2025, 09:13
I'd need to read the story again but I don't like the way the ideas were presented. I can buy Batman deciding to use Venom in his early years to compensate for a lack of strength in saving people. I don't have a problem with Batman being more ferocious in combat, or simply defending himself and manslaughter happens as a result. But holstering a gun?

I like what Batman Beyond does with firearms, with their possible use being a very last resort when Batman is vulnerable and at risk of serious damage. But even then it's something he hates doing. Take away the 'no guns' argument for a second, it's also an admission he's not intimidating enough or physically capable without them. He's disgusted with himself and decides to retire.
#4
Animated Batman / Re: Batman Beyond
Fri, 14 Mar 2025, 13:55
Quote from: Travesty on Fri, 14 Mar  2025, 13:24It's been a long time since I've watched it. I bought it on blu-ray, but never got around to watching it. I should get around to it soon.
I recently finished season one. The amalgamation of moods is what keeps reeling me in. Terry gets to be a Spider-Man like character of a younger kid juggling school and crime fighting, being the age of a typical sidekick like Robin. Then we have Bruce still down in the cave, when Barbara and the others have long moved on. The mission never ends and the flashes of his Batman charisma can't help but make you smile.

It's still pretty clear that Bruce IS Batman and the red suit which amplifies strength and makes the job easier is required for Terry to operate at this level, despite the skill he naturally possesses. I like that. Both old Bruce and young Terry needed an advantage.

The show was also wise to give brand new villains to demonstrate the world went on, and the likes of Freeze and Bane suffered the consequences. Just very well thought out all around. Interesting and fun.
#5
Animated Batman / Re: Batman Beyond
Tue, 11 Mar 2025, 08:54
I've been going through Beyond again and have been enjoying myself immensely.

Apart from appreciating The Matrix and Blade Runner, Beyond taps into something I've felt for a long time now: the best has already been and it's just a memory. People aren't coming back and you're alone. But nonetheless, we carry on.

Bruce's biggest weapon has always been his mind, and Beyond proves it when his body is no longer as able. The show never discounted what Bruce could do while still giving Terry his time to shine. There's a really nice balance in that regard. I also like the fact Bruce actually wore the red futuristic suit for a period of time before retiring. It somehow softens the blow that a younger replacement has assumed the public image and title of Batman, having earned permission to use the suit from the man himself rather than making his own.

I love TDK Returns, but Beyond is how I envision Bruce's story reaching its end. At some point he would reach an age where he can no longer fight. There's a fitting full circle beauty that he essentially becomes an Alfred figure with unlimited on the job experience to provide a new Batman.

In short, it holds up and it's awesome.

#6
I'm less excited about this compared to Resurrection, but I'll probably get it.

The first book was a good Batman story (despite aspects not feeling pure Burton) and the Easter eggs were pretty fun. The synopsis for Revolution seems to be The Batman inspired, but with Riddler being jealous of Batman from the outset rather than in awe. I find myself connecting with Riddler quite a lot with the general modus operandi of exposing dirty secrets, which blurs the lines between hero and villain.

If this is Miller's last book I'm interested to see how he wraps up characters like Knox and sets the stage for Returns. I imagine the Strongman or other gang members could make more appearances. Riddler obtaining the Batmobile blueprints and passing them on would be a neat touch.
#7
Other DC Films & TV / Re: RIP Gene Hackman
Fri, 28 Feb 2025, 10:17
I haven't seen a Hackman film in quite so time, but I remember him having a commanding presence and masculine charisma akin to Harrison Ford and Bruce Willis. Seeing the last photo of him from last year was a stark reminder about the reality of old age. It didn't even look like him. The circumstances around his death seem odd, but it seems to me he could've had a fall and the wife committed suicide upon discovering his body. In any case, Hackman was a very strong actor and my favorite Lex. I sincerely hope he had a peaceful life after his retirement from acting. RIP.
#8
I'll need to do more research about the plans for the reboot but after consideration I like the suit, and I'd be fine with something like that appearing in live action. The logo isn't my favorite or anything but I can appreciate it's a new design that still keeps the general aesthetic. If you're going for a relaunch make clear points of difference.

The recent Batman comics haven't been my thing so fingers crossed the relaunch is better. Killing Alfred was a mistake, so that going out the window would be very welcome. That was the only believable way the character was coming back after what happened with Bane. Alfred should be a mainstay in the mythos IMO - I wouldn't support that being a fixed canon event that eventually pops up in continuity, like Batman's back break. 
#9
This movie rubs me the wrong way. They've had a couple of attempts with Fantastic Four and all have failed. They're trying again but admitting defeat with a contemporary setting and going into the past. I'm hoping it's another box office flop. Superman isn't a sure thing either. The dumb thing is that I actually think Jurassic World Rebirth could end up making more than either of them.
#10
It was the right move to take a break after Clooney even if they wanted to go darker right then and there. Triumphant without him could've been reworked to be less of a Burton/Schumacher era finale, but chances are the new actor would've also been one and done. That would have been three actors in a row with that tag, which isn't a good look. Bale gave the franchise a better chance for long term stability with a cleaner foundation to start again.