Batman (US - DVD R1)
Holy Special Edition DVD, Batman!!! Dustin McNeill revisits the original film
In the long list of films that need better treatment on DVD, the Batman films ranked pretty high up for me. The previous editions were just several of many great films unlucky enough to be given standard Warner Brothers treatment. Ignoring picture quality and extras, the discs were given two of the most annoying features I can think of; double-sided discs housed in cardboard snapper cases. Released in the monstrous hype that surrounded Batman Begins, I'm expecting Warner Brothers to really deliver the goods here for making me wait so long for this special edition.
Unless you're one of those who would sooner bite off your own tongue and spit it at Joel Schumacher than buy one of his Batman films, you can purchase this flick as part of the Batman Motion Picture Anthology box set. It houses the films in a nifty Bat-logo case and is usually cheaper than buying them all separately. Other than pricing and packaging, I can't give you much else incentive to buy the box set.

Fueled by the childhood memory of his parents’ murder, billionaire Bruce Wayne is taking on the criminal underworld of Gotham City first hand. Disguised as the masked vigilante Batman, he strikes fear in the hearts of criminals. Just as this new calibre of crime fighter begins to clean up Gotham, a new calibre of criminal is rising. After a near-fatal experience with a vat of chemicals, Jack Napier is terrorizing Gotham as the homicidal clown prince of crime, the Joker. Can Batman uncover the maniacal plan the Joker is plotting to carry out? And more importantly, can he stop it?
I have to applaud the creative team here for their inclusion of one particular Batman aspect that most incarnations ignore: his detective skills. After all, the character's first appearance was in a series called Detective Comics. Despite this inclusion, I found the depiction of the Batman enjoyable in spite of two major source material deviations. Firstly, the screenwriters had Batman kill, and secondly they replaced Joe Chill with the Joker as the killer of Bruce's parents. I see now that time has washed away nearly all of the original negative response these changes brought about when the film opened in 1989.
I find these changes acceptable because of the nature of the property we're dealing with. Batman is, in my mind, the most versatile comic book character ever. It's because of this that I can deal with these changes. It's the versatility of Batman that makes the old 60s show and the recent Batman Begins both Batman and both acceptable. Come to think of it, the 'Batman killing' aspect isn't so much a change but rather a trait that certain interpretations chose to leave out.
Speaking of source material, you've got to love the visual irony of Batman vs. the Joker. In one corner on the side of good, we have a giant black bat; a symbol of fear, a creature of the night. In the opposite corner of evil, we have what appears to be a clown, an icon of harmless mirth. Not until I began to pick apart the film did I realize just how clever Bob Kane was when he created these characters nearly seventy years ago.

Of the many interpretations of the dark knight, this one remains my second favourite, right behind Batman Returns. Burton is an incredibly talented filmmaker, one with a knack for creating vivid worlds for his colourful characters to play in. Speaking of colourful characters, I could watch Jack Nicholson as the Joker for hours on end and never grow bored with it. He plays crazy very well; too much I've heard some say considering he's on-screen significantly more than Batman. Burton explains that the unbalance was intentional during a featurette on disc two, furthering my admiration for the filmmaker.
Beyond Nicholson, the rest of the cast is pitch-perfect. Surprisingly, I enjoyed Michael Keaton as Bruce Wayne/Batman. He may seem to fit the role well in retrospect, but check out his work prior to Batman. With a resume like that, I would've questioned his casting as well, but it works. Kim Basinger is as good as she possibly can be in the role of Vicki Vale, the bat-babe of the picture. Michael Gough and Pat Hingle are Alfred Pennyworth and Commissioner Gordon. Sadly, this is the first and last time we'll get to see Billy Dee Williams as district attorney Harvey Dent. He'll be replaced by Tommy Lee Jones for the characters alter-ego, Two-Face, in Batman Forever. Considering Williams accepted the role with Two-Face in mind, I mourn the re-casting as I would've enjoyed seeing Williams as a villain.
I could go on with endless praise of the film from visual effects to costumes to Danny Elfman's masterpiece of a score, but you're probably not reading this review for a critique of the film, so I'll save my typing for what this special edition offers over the previous edition.

Batman is presented in 1:85:1 anamorphic widescreen. To adequately judge this new transfer, I felt it necessary to pull out my old 1997 DVD and compare the two side by side. This new special edition looks excellent all on it's own before any comparison. Colours are particularly rich for such a dark film and black levels look great. I found little to no grain and softness only present in select matte shots near the ending.
When compared, I find the biggest difference occurs on the streets of Gotham City. The first matte shot below of the 200th Founder's Day Parade looks much better in this edition, from improved contrast to a sharper image. The second screenshot further illustrate the better level of contrast, particularly in the Joker's face. The third shot boasts that both transfers had excellent black levels so there was little room for improvement there. The biggest achievement here is the improved contrast levels. It should also be mentioned that the 1997 DVD had a faire share of dirt and artefacts scattered throughout that are nowhere to be seen here. It's not terribly distracting, but notice the framing issues between the two transfers? Where the second transfer shows more on the right side of the image, it leaves out some of what the first transfer showed on the left. A minor quarrel, however.
1997 Standard DVD

2005 Special Edition DVD

1997 Standard DVD

2005 Special Edition DVD

1997 Standard DVD

2005 Special Edition DVD

I rocked out to the Dolby Digital 5.1 track on Batman, and was pleased. This star of the track is clearly Elfman's energetic score, at times flowing from all available channels. The audio on the disc is good, but far from impressive. I'm almost certain this is the same 5.1 track from the 1997 release, which is okay because I enjoyed the previous disc's audio.
On disc one we have the film's theatrical trailer and a commentary by director Tim Burton. Burton won't win any awards for thought articulation, but if you can sit through his ramble, he offers up information you won't hear on disc two, such as fan reaction to the changes in the movie. Absent, sadly, is the humorous Diet Coke commercial from the original VHS release with a cameo by Michael Gough as Alfred.
First up on disc two is a fantastic documentary called 'Legends of the Dark Knight: The History of Batman'. Narrated by Mark Hammill (the Joker from the animated series), this look at the source material of the film clocks in at a strong forty minutes. I was very surprised at just how thorough this feature was with Frank Miller, Kevin Smith, Mike Mignola, Stan Lee, Elizabeth Sanders Kane, and even the late Bob Kane himself all speaking their minds on the character's legacy. This is not a documentary to miss.
'On the Set with Bob Kane' is an absolute gem for fans of the Dark Knight’s creator, if only it could've been longer than two and a half minutes. Kane talks about how he came up with Batman, the casting of the movie, and takes a stroll about the Gotham City set during the day time. This is clearly a promotional piece from 1989, but promoting what, I wonder?

A feature standard to all films in the box set is 'Shadows of the Bat: The Cinematic Saga of the Dark Knight'. That title is actually code for 'The greatest making-of you'll ever see for Batman'. At an hour and ten minutes, the feature is broken down into three chapters chronicling the film from conception to premiere. It's a cool mix of old/new interviews and on-set footage. This along with the above documentary would've been enough to satisfy me in the bonus materials department, but Warner Brothers has much more to offer.
Another feature standard to all four films is a heroes and villains gallery. You might expect lousy text bios, but we're given video profiles featuring several minutes of clips and interviews. Instead of just covering Batman and the Joker, the gallery covers Vicki Vale, Alexander Knox, Commissioner Gordon, Harvey Dent, and Bob the Goon. Together these bios run about twenty minutes total and feature a convenient 'Play All' feature. A surprisingly entertaining feature.
Next up is 'Beyond Batman', a series of six mini-featurettes on the film's production that can be viewed separately or all at once. Together, they run a total of fifty minutes. They cover the production design, batmobile, prop design, batsuit, Joker makeup, and music. I found these almost more entertaining than the 'Shadows of the Bat' feature. If it wouldn't have nearly doubled the running time, these could be part of it. These, like nearly everything else on this disc, are worth your attention.
A surprising inclusion on the disc is a proposed alternate ending that would've introduced Robin. Using original story-board artwork and featuring Mark Hammill as the Joker—this is a most interesting look at what could've been. I personally am glad Burton chose to scrap this ending and go in a different direction.
Finally, we have three music videos by Prince that tie directly in with the film. Never have I wanted to see a line of dancing Batmans strut their stuff alongside a line of dancing Jokers, but that's exactly what Prince gives us. He himself is split down the middle like Two-Face, with one side dressed as Batman the other as the Joker. Seeing this incredibly undignified take on Batman makes Schumacher's stuff look like noir.

It took them eight years, but Warner Brothers has finally given Batman it's due on DVD. There's absolutely no reason not to upgrade from the 1997 release to this one; unless of course you're still clinging to your pan and scan transfer which you won't find here, thankfully. Buy the set, watch the film, experience the documentaries, but please... skip the Prince videos.
Unless you're one of those who would sooner bite off your own tongue and spit it at Joel Schumacher than buy one of his Batman films, you can purchase this flick as part of the Batman Motion Picture Anthology box set. It houses the films in a nifty Bat-logo case and is usually cheaper than buying them all separately. Other than pricing and packaging, I can't give you much else incentive to buy the box set.

Feature
Fueled by the childhood memory of his parents’ murder, billionaire Bruce Wayne is taking on the criminal underworld of Gotham City first hand. Disguised as the masked vigilante Batman, he strikes fear in the hearts of criminals. Just as this new calibre of crime fighter begins to clean up Gotham, a new calibre of criminal is rising. After a near-fatal experience with a vat of chemicals, Jack Napier is terrorizing Gotham as the homicidal clown prince of crime, the Joker. Can Batman uncover the maniacal plan the Joker is plotting to carry out? And more importantly, can he stop it?
I have to applaud the creative team here for their inclusion of one particular Batman aspect that most incarnations ignore: his detective skills. After all, the character's first appearance was in a series called Detective Comics. Despite this inclusion, I found the depiction of the Batman enjoyable in spite of two major source material deviations. Firstly, the screenwriters had Batman kill, and secondly they replaced Joe Chill with the Joker as the killer of Bruce's parents. I see now that time has washed away nearly all of the original negative response these changes brought about when the film opened in 1989.
I find these changes acceptable because of the nature of the property we're dealing with. Batman is, in my mind, the most versatile comic book character ever. It's because of this that I can deal with these changes. It's the versatility of Batman that makes the old 60s show and the recent Batman Begins both Batman and both acceptable. Come to think of it, the 'Batman killing' aspect isn't so much a change but rather a trait that certain interpretations chose to leave out.
Speaking of source material, you've got to love the visual irony of Batman vs. the Joker. In one corner on the side of good, we have a giant black bat; a symbol of fear, a creature of the night. In the opposite corner of evil, we have what appears to be a clown, an icon of harmless mirth. Not until I began to pick apart the film did I realize just how clever Bob Kane was when he created these characters nearly seventy years ago.

Of the many interpretations of the dark knight, this one remains my second favourite, right behind Batman Returns. Burton is an incredibly talented filmmaker, one with a knack for creating vivid worlds for his colourful characters to play in. Speaking of colourful characters, I could watch Jack Nicholson as the Joker for hours on end and never grow bored with it. He plays crazy very well; too much I've heard some say considering he's on-screen significantly more than Batman. Burton explains that the unbalance was intentional during a featurette on disc two, furthering my admiration for the filmmaker.
Beyond Nicholson, the rest of the cast is pitch-perfect. Surprisingly, I enjoyed Michael Keaton as Bruce Wayne/Batman. He may seem to fit the role well in retrospect, but check out his work prior to Batman. With a resume like that, I would've questioned his casting as well, but it works. Kim Basinger is as good as she possibly can be in the role of Vicki Vale, the bat-babe of the picture. Michael Gough and Pat Hingle are Alfred Pennyworth and Commissioner Gordon. Sadly, this is the first and last time we'll get to see Billy Dee Williams as district attorney Harvey Dent. He'll be replaced by Tommy Lee Jones for the characters alter-ego, Two-Face, in Batman Forever. Considering Williams accepted the role with Two-Face in mind, I mourn the re-casting as I would've enjoyed seeing Williams as a villain.
I could go on with endless praise of the film from visual effects to costumes to Danny Elfman's masterpiece of a score, but you're probably not reading this review for a critique of the film, so I'll save my typing for what this special edition offers over the previous edition.

Video
Batman is presented in 1:85:1 anamorphic widescreen. To adequately judge this new transfer, I felt it necessary to pull out my old 1997 DVD and compare the two side by side. This new special edition looks excellent all on it's own before any comparison. Colours are particularly rich for such a dark film and black levels look great. I found little to no grain and softness only present in select matte shots near the ending.
When compared, I find the biggest difference occurs on the streets of Gotham City. The first matte shot below of the 200th Founder's Day Parade looks much better in this edition, from improved contrast to a sharper image. The second screenshot further illustrate the better level of contrast, particularly in the Joker's face. The third shot boasts that both transfers had excellent black levels so there was little room for improvement there. The biggest achievement here is the improved contrast levels. It should also be mentioned that the 1997 DVD had a faire share of dirt and artefacts scattered throughout that are nowhere to be seen here. It's not terribly distracting, but notice the framing issues between the two transfers? Where the second transfer shows more on the right side of the image, it leaves out some of what the first transfer showed on the left. A minor quarrel, however.
1997 Standard DVD

2005 Special Edition DVD

1997 Standard DVD

2005 Special Edition DVD

1997 Standard DVD

2005 Special Edition DVD

Audio
I rocked out to the Dolby Digital 5.1 track on Batman, and was pleased. This star of the track is clearly Elfman's energetic score, at times flowing from all available channels. The audio on the disc is good, but far from impressive. I'm almost certain this is the same 5.1 track from the 1997 release, which is okay because I enjoyed the previous disc's audio.
Extras
On disc one we have the film's theatrical trailer and a commentary by director Tim Burton. Burton won't win any awards for thought articulation, but if you can sit through his ramble, he offers up information you won't hear on disc two, such as fan reaction to the changes in the movie. Absent, sadly, is the humorous Diet Coke commercial from the original VHS release with a cameo by Michael Gough as Alfred.
First up on disc two is a fantastic documentary called 'Legends of the Dark Knight: The History of Batman'. Narrated by Mark Hammill (the Joker from the animated series), this look at the source material of the film clocks in at a strong forty minutes. I was very surprised at just how thorough this feature was with Frank Miller, Kevin Smith, Mike Mignola, Stan Lee, Elizabeth Sanders Kane, and even the late Bob Kane himself all speaking their minds on the character's legacy. This is not a documentary to miss.
'On the Set with Bob Kane' is an absolute gem for fans of the Dark Knight’s creator, if only it could've been longer than two and a half minutes. Kane talks about how he came up with Batman, the casting of the movie, and takes a stroll about the Gotham City set during the day time. This is clearly a promotional piece from 1989, but promoting what, I wonder?

A feature standard to all films in the box set is 'Shadows of the Bat: The Cinematic Saga of the Dark Knight'. That title is actually code for 'The greatest making-of you'll ever see for Batman'. At an hour and ten minutes, the feature is broken down into three chapters chronicling the film from conception to premiere. It's a cool mix of old/new interviews and on-set footage. This along with the above documentary would've been enough to satisfy me in the bonus materials department, but Warner Brothers has much more to offer.
Another feature standard to all four films is a heroes and villains gallery. You might expect lousy text bios, but we're given video profiles featuring several minutes of clips and interviews. Instead of just covering Batman and the Joker, the gallery covers Vicki Vale, Alexander Knox, Commissioner Gordon, Harvey Dent, and Bob the Goon. Together these bios run about twenty minutes total and feature a convenient 'Play All' feature. A surprisingly entertaining feature.
Next up is 'Beyond Batman', a series of six mini-featurettes on the film's production that can be viewed separately or all at once. Together, they run a total of fifty minutes. They cover the production design, batmobile, prop design, batsuit, Joker makeup, and music. I found these almost more entertaining than the 'Shadows of the Bat' feature. If it wouldn't have nearly doubled the running time, these could be part of it. These, like nearly everything else on this disc, are worth your attention.
A surprising inclusion on the disc is a proposed alternate ending that would've introduced Robin. Using original story-board artwork and featuring Mark Hammill as the Joker—this is a most interesting look at what could've been. I personally am glad Burton chose to scrap this ending and go in a different direction.
Finally, we have three music videos by Prince that tie directly in with the film. Never have I wanted to see a line of dancing Batmans strut their stuff alongside a line of dancing Jokers, but that's exactly what Prince gives us. He himself is split down the middle like Two-Face, with one side dressed as Batman the other as the Joker. Seeing this incredibly undignified take on Batman makes Schumacher's stuff look like noir.

Overall
It took them eight years, but Warner Brothers has finally given Batman it's due on DVD. There's absolutely no reason not to upgrade from the 1997 release to this one; unless of course you're still clinging to your pan and scan transfer which you won't find here, thankfully. Buy the set, watch the film, experience the documentaries, but please... skip the Prince videos.
Review by Dustin McNeill
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Existing Posts
On Keaton not participating in the extras for this disc, yeah, it's a little disappointing from a fan perspective, but I can't say I'm at all surprised really given just how badly Warners allegedly treated him during negotiations for Batman Forever, and after recasting (which, if the rumours are correct, was their real intention all along as part of their big franchise revamping) leaking stories that put all the blame on Keaton's shoulders for outrageous demands over more money...
I mean Since 'Returns, the only film that Keaton has made for Warner Brothers has been Jack Frost (which I believe was initially set up through an outside production company), and by the time he did that his career had taken a pretty steep dive, and let's face it, hasn't really resurfaced much since. Point is, I think there may still be some bad blood or unpleasant memories there with how it all ended that he didn't want to dredge up, so that may play some part in why he didn't participate.
It's kinda like the Harrison Ford with Blade Runner thing, it may be a great filmic experience for us watching it, but for him it's just a reminder of something that wasn't a very good experience for him and left a bad taste in the mouth, one that, sadly, overshadowed the final, lasting result of what the film actually was itself, and prevented him from ever being able to appreciate it in the way that others can.
In other words, I'm sure Keaton had his reasons beyond "the guy's just a prick", it's a shame, but that's life.
Sev.
I mean Since 'Returns, the only film that Keaton has made for Warner Brothers has been Jack Frost (which I believe was initially set up through an outside production company), and by the time he did that his career had taken a pretty steep dive, and let's face it, hasn't really resurfaced much since. Point is, I think there may still be some bad blood or unpleasant memories there with how it all ended that he didn't want to dredge up, so that may play some part in why he didn't participate.
It's kinda like the Harrison Ford with Blade Runner thing, it may be a great filmic experience for us watching it, but for him it's just a reminder of something that wasn't a very good experience for him and left a bad taste in the mouth, one that, sadly, overshadowed the final, lasting result of what the film actually was itself, and prevented him from ever being able to appreciate it in the way that others can.
In other words, I'm sure Keaton had his reasons beyond "the guy's just a prick", it's a shame, but that's life.

Sev.
Mclay, Burton specifically says why Batman isn't in the first two films more on the DVD commentaries for the first two films. It's highly intentional and a good reason if you wanted to them them both out.

Comparisons of Batman Begins to the first four Batman flicks are inevitable. What Dustin pointed out about Burton's flicks being gothic fairy tales is true, but I don't think Bob Kane actually wanted his gritty superhero to be shunted aside and have the villains steal the spotlight (the films' titles mention Batman and that's who I pay to see).
I saw Batman when I was younger, and it didn't impress me one bit (that was way before Begins was even greenlighted). Yet I thought Batman Begins was a refreshing take on Batman, and a Batman film that should've been done right the first time. (I have rewatched BB on DVD around eight times -- not counting the two times I saw it in theaters -- and it still impresses me. The only things that I think Batman surpasses Begins in is the Elfman score, a hotter leading lady, and Jack Nicholson's performance as the Joker.)
However, I agree that the 2-disc edition of Batman Begins should've been done in the style used for the first 4 movies (minus the garish silver borders and font). Such as easy-to-navigate menus on the second disc, a feature-length commentary (either by Christopher Nolan or David S. Goyer), a "Shadows of the Bat" part 7 featurette, "Beyond Batman" documentaries (featurettes on the musical score, editing the film, special/visual effects work, production design, and sound design) and all the trailers and TV spots used to promote BB.
However, the SE for Batman was definitely worth the purchase... I'm hoping Warner will give Batman Begins similar treatment when the sequel comes out. (I currently own the single-disc edition of BB.)
I saw Batman when I was younger, and it didn't impress me one bit (that was way before Begins was even greenlighted). Yet I thought Batman Begins was a refreshing take on Batman, and a Batman film that should've been done right the first time. (I have rewatched BB on DVD around eight times -- not counting the two times I saw it in theaters -- and it still impresses me. The only things that I think Batman surpasses Begins in is the Elfman score, a hotter leading lady, and Jack Nicholson's performance as the Joker.)
However, I agree that the 2-disc edition of Batman Begins should've been done in the style used for the first 4 movies (minus the garish silver borders and font). Such as easy-to-navigate menus on the second disc, a feature-length commentary (either by Christopher Nolan or David S. Goyer), a "Shadows of the Bat" part 7 featurette, "Beyond Batman" documentaries (featurettes on the musical score, editing the film, special/visual effects work, production design, and sound design) and all the trailers and TV spots used to promote BB.
However, the SE for Batman was definitely worth the purchase... I'm hoping Warner will give Batman Begins similar treatment when the sequel comes out. (I currently own the single-disc edition of BB.)
Burtons flicks and Begins are so incredibly different in style and approach that really you can't compare the two, it's just not fair. Begins is a more realistic take on Bats and Burtons films are more like gothic fairy tales.
It's like comparing an apple and an orange. Now if you compare Schumachers flicks, it's like comparing horse s**t with an orange. Not much of a comparison there, either.
It's like comparing an apple and an orange. Now if you compare Schumachers flicks, it's like comparing horse s**t with an orange. Not much of a comparison there, either.
David Blackwell wrote: so much love for Batman Begins. True, it blows the other four films away. I liked Batman, but Batman Returns was better. Thanks for the review.
You take Batman, Batman Returns, Batman Forever, and the one after Batman Forever, multiply them by fifty, and you are no where close to how great Batman Begins is. I still like those movies, minus the one after Forever, but Begins is by far the greatest Batman film since Batman: Mask of the Phantasm.
You take Batman, Batman Returns, Batman Forever, and the one after Batman Forever, multiply them by fifty, and you are no where close to how great Batman Begins is. I still like those movies, minus the one after Forever, but Begins is by far the greatest Batman film since Batman: Mask of the Phantasm.
David Blackwell wrote: so much love for Batman Begins. True, it blows the other four films away. I liked Batman, but Batman Returns was better. Thanks for the review.
All a matter of opinion. I don't think Batman Begins was as good as this movie. I've seen this one multiple times and never get tired of it. It's kind of amazing too because when I saw it in theaters, I sat beside some really annoying kids and it really ruined the movie to the point I never wanted to see it again. I'm glad that I gave it another try when it made it to home video. This was one of my very first DVDs when I bought the player in 1999.
All a matter of opinion. I don't think Batman Begins was as good as this movie. I've seen this one multiple times and never get tired of it. It's kind of amazing too because when I saw it in theaters, I sat beside some really annoying kids and it really ruined the movie to the point I never wanted to see it again. I'm glad that I gave it another try when it made it to home video. This was one of my very first DVDs when I bought the player in 1999.
so much love for Batman Begins. True, it blows the other four films away. I liked Batman, but Batman Returns was better. Thanks for the review.
See, I struggled with the score of Begins, it wasn't much of a.....score, LOL. I guess the problem I had with it was no sense of "theme" to it. I did however love the haunting music for the more tender moments, beautiful musical piece. there.
Kaya Savas wrote: Batman Begins all the way, people. Nicholson stole the show in this movie, so it really was more about him than Batman, and the second one was borderline comedy. After Shumacher took over things just went down the toilet. Good thing Christopher Nolan came along.
AMEN to that...
The score by Hans Zimmer and James Newton Howard is a joy to listen to as well, not saying that Danny Elfman's score for the first two aren't great, but geez...the score for Batman Begins invades my thoughts almost daily and rules over any CD that enters my car stereo...
AMEN to that...
The score by Hans Zimmer and James Newton Howard is a joy to listen to as well, not saying that Danny Elfman's score for the first two aren't great, but geez...the score for Batman Begins invades my thoughts almost daily and rules over any CD that enters my car stereo...
Dustin wrote: To put a cap on this discussion for a moment, Jett over at BOF tells me that Keaton was indeed asked. He's contacting long-time Bat producer Michael Uslan for a reason....
Well whatever the reason.... it's not because he's a jerk, I know that much. Keaton's never publicly been cruel or rude. He's consistantly been one of the nicest, more down-to-Earth people in Hollywood.
So as I said in my first post, it must've been been wanting to keep out of the loop. Sure, a little selfish, but would YOU want to participate with the thing that overshadowed your whole career? It wasn't a case of "Screw the fans, Batman ruined my career" more likely, coming from Keaton, it was a case of "I'm sorry.... I... I just don't want to." He's always said he'd "done his piece" on Batman. The man wants to move on, and no one is sorrier than I.
Well whatever the reason.... it's not because he's a jerk, I know that much. Keaton's never publicly been cruel or rude. He's consistantly been one of the nicest, more down-to-Earth people in Hollywood.
So as I said in my first post, it must've been been wanting to keep out of the loop. Sure, a little selfish, but would YOU want to participate with the thing that overshadowed your whole career? It wasn't a case of "Screw the fans, Batman ruined my career" more likely, coming from Keaton, it was a case of "I'm sorry.... I... I just don't want to." He's always said he'd "done his piece" on Batman. The man wants to move on, and no one is sorrier than I.
Even way back in '89 there were so many things about this movie that bugged me. I have watched it again recently, and tried to enjoy it as a novelty, but it just was not good for me. Each Batman movie after that went down hill by far, until Batman Begins, which was everything this movie was not.
Didn't they have problems getting Weaver for the Quadrilogy interviews for even 30min? Maybe he diodn't have time or whatever..who cares
Like this Batman-movie more then BB but the boxset is still to expansive.

Batman Begins all the way, people. Nicholson stole the show in this movie, so it really was more about him than Batman, and the second one was borderline comedy. After Shumacher took over things just went down the toilet. Good thing Christopher Nolan came along.
Duh Chris, Gav understood I meant DOLBY 5.1. Geez
Gav, Yes, I have heard both tracks and I couldn't tell a huge difference between the DOLBY and the DTS, though as usual, DTS does always seem to have a bit more clarity than the DOLBY DIGITAL track.
Which brings about another complaint about Begins, it didn't have a DTS track. I just love how it got away with being a c**p release but God forbid Star Wars not have everything it should. But I digress.
Anxious to see what the "official" reason behind why Keaton didn't participate with a recent interview. I mean they had to of been in contact with him to get his permission to use the archive footage, so the communication lines were open there. Not to mention, Warner's surely knew of the 3 men who played Batman, fans would be the most interested in new Keaton perspective.

Gav, Yes, I have heard both tracks and I couldn't tell a huge difference between the DOLBY and the DTS, though as usual, DTS does always seem to have a bit more clarity than the DOLBY DIGITAL track.
Which brings about another complaint about Begins, it didn't have a DTS track. I just love how it got away with being a c**p release but God forbid Star Wars not have everything it should. But I digress.
Anxious to see what the "official" reason behind why Keaton didn't participate with a recent interview. I mean they had to of been in contact with him to get his permission to use the archive footage, so the communication lines were open there. Not to mention, Warner's surely knew of the 3 men who played Batman, fans would be the most interested in new Keaton perspective.
Good review, but isn't it a little late in the day? Seeing as the DVD has been out for over 6 months already! Most of us Batman enthusiasts have already purchased the DVD long ago. Speedier, up to date reviews would be more helpful and relevant!
To put a cap on this discussion for a moment, Jett over at BOF tells me that Keaton was indeed asked. He's contacting long-time Bat producer Michael Uslan for a reason....
Despite Doc handing my ass to me just now... I still think Keaton's a jerk for not appearing. I highly doubt it was because of his busy career.
Why oh why wouldn't Warner Brothers have asked him? I find that incredibly surprising. And if by some chance they didn't and I'm attacking an innocent man - then my bad. But I'm very skeptical that they didn't ask him...
Why oh why wouldn't Warner Brothers have asked him? I find that incredibly surprising. And if by some chance they didn't and I'm attacking an innocent man - then my bad. But I'm very skeptical that they didn't ask him...
LLcruize wrote: The DTS has been maybe a notch better than the 5.1, both are really good. Especially compared to the previous editions.
Last time I checked DTS generally was 5.1.
Last time I checked DTS generally was 5.1.
LLcruize wrote: The DTS has been maybe a notch better than the 5.1, both are really good. Especially compared to the previous editions.
Thats good. But have your heard it yourself or just saw it in a review someplace?
Thats good. But have your heard it yourself or just saw it in a review someplace?
All in all, they did a way better job of putting together the 2nd disk of the SE's than they did for Begins. I am holding out hope they give us a beter Begins release next go around.
The DTS has been maybe a notch better than the 5.1, both are really good. Especially compared to the previous editions.
Dustin wrote:
I recall him saying in an interview recently that he never saw another Batman film after his own because he had no interest in them along with some other jerk-ish comments.
Sorry, had to chime-in. I'm a huge fan of Michael Keaton, not just from B89, though that's where I was introduced to him from. I read everything on him I can, and I've never seen anything bad written about him, or even close.
And not seeing the other Batman films... I can't say I blame him, the Schumacher films aren't worth seeing, even as good as BF is in parts. He's been quoted in ANOTHER interview saying while seeing another film at a theater in '97, he peeked his head into "Batman and Robin" for about five minutes and knew he did the right thing not coming back.
Keaton's not a Batman fan, I'm a huge one and a big fan of him, and I don't think disinterest in something you're not a fan of is being a jerk. But in that SAME interview you speak of, he talks about being highly interested in "Batman Begins" and considering seeing it. Further comments from him about Batman have left me sure that he saw it, especially when he responded to the rumors about him being the new Joker, he laughed it off and said that, while it would be interesting, this franchise is new and that his day in the franchise is done. Such comments realizing how different the new franchise is leads me to believe he saw Begins.
And trust me, the interview footage included is from 1992 on the set of "Returns," you can tell because the "Returns" version of the Gotham Cathedral is in the background. It's only some of the same stuff from the "Returns" TV special. The same session, but new parts of that session are included on the DVD set.
And trust me, he HAS aged. A little better than some, but there's definite difference to him now.
Anyway, the reason he didn't return isn't because he's a jerk in any way. Whatever his reason was, it wasn't that. He takes the Batman typecasting well, he doesn't avoid fans or Bat-mention, I personally believe the bit about his regret to not have been asked, for whatever reason.
I recall him saying in an interview recently that he never saw another Batman film after his own because he had no interest in them along with some other jerk-ish comments.
Sorry, had to chime-in. I'm a huge fan of Michael Keaton, not just from B89, though that's where I was introduced to him from. I read everything on him I can, and I've never seen anything bad written about him, or even close.
And not seeing the other Batman films... I can't say I blame him, the Schumacher films aren't worth seeing, even as good as BF is in parts. He's been quoted in ANOTHER interview saying while seeing another film at a theater in '97, he peeked his head into "Batman and Robin" for about five minutes and knew he did the right thing not coming back.
Keaton's not a Batman fan, I'm a huge one and a big fan of him, and I don't think disinterest in something you're not a fan of is being a jerk. But in that SAME interview you speak of, he talks about being highly interested in "Batman Begins" and considering seeing it. Further comments from him about Batman have left me sure that he saw it, especially when he responded to the rumors about him being the new Joker, he laughed it off and said that, while it would be interesting, this franchise is new and that his day in the franchise is done. Such comments realizing how different the new franchise is leads me to believe he saw Begins.
And trust me, the interview footage included is from 1992 on the set of "Returns," you can tell because the "Returns" version of the Gotham Cathedral is in the background. It's only some of the same stuff from the "Returns" TV special. The same session, but new parts of that session are included on the DVD set.
And trust me, he HAS aged. A little better than some, but there's definite difference to him now.
Anyway, the reason he didn't return isn't because he's a jerk in any way. Whatever his reason was, it wasn't that. He takes the Batman typecasting well, he doesn't avoid fans or Bat-mention, I personally believe the bit about his regret to not have been asked, for whatever reason.
Jersey Jedi wrote: I'm Batman...says the guy in the "MST3K" version of "Time Chasers".
What is/was the DTS like? Anyone know?
The one thing that was a downer for this release was the aforementioned lack of up to date participation by Keaton and Clooney. Especially Keaton. It is a head scratcher why he did not participate. I agree, it is a bit presumptious to say he snubbed the release, but then again, given how long these were in the works, a scheduling conflict wouldn't have been a showstopper. It would have been as simple as sending a crew to where he was working (if work was the issue) and during his time off, he record the new interview. He could have even done a commentary as well without ever having to step into a studio. It is just very conspicuous that recent footage of him is not included. The person who would probably have some insight to this is Jett over at BOF.
I really need to replace my VHS copies of Batman, Batman Returns, and Forever with these SE's.
Will you guys ever have a review of BATMAN BEGINS?
How do you know Keaton didn't have scheduling conflicts? How do you know he was asked? You don't. And neither do I. But I'm trying to give him the benefit of the doubt. Its "absurd", in my opinion, to just assume that he's a jerk because new interviews weren't included on the disc. But hey, you can believe whatever you want. I just don't believe in jumping to conclusions.
Penhall, that's absurd. Warner Brothers had old interviews for EVERYONE and still commisioned new interviews with *many* cast and crew members. They even got the guy who played 'Bob the Goon'.
No one said Keaton told WB to screw off, he probably just said no when they asked him. And if you're yet to read a negative comment about the man - you probably haven't done much reading on him. I recall him saying in an interview recently that he never saw another Batman film after his own because he had no interest in them along with some other jerk-ish comments.
And you say you've never heard a movie studio say something bad about him? When's the last time you heard a movie studio say something bad about someone? They don't exactly publish their opinions in press releases, you know.
No one said Keaton told WB to screw off, he probably just said no when they asked him. And if you're yet to read a negative comment about the man - you probably haven't done much reading on him. I recall him saying in an interview recently that he never saw another Batman film after his own because he had no interest in them along with some other jerk-ish comments.
And you say you've never heard a movie studio say something bad about him? When's the last time you heard a movie studio say something bad about someone? They don't exactly publish their opinions in press releases, you know.
Why all the Keaton bashing? There's a million different possible reasons why he didn't contribute new interviews. Maybe he was making a movie and had scheduling conflicts. Maybe WB didn't even ask him to participate because they had the older interview stuff. I highly doubt he was asked to give some new interviews and told WB to screw off. I've never read a negative comment about him from directors, fans, or movie studios. Lets cut the guy a little slack....
The Keaton clips are old. They come from the TV documentary on the Batman Returns disc.
While I used to enjoy these original Batman movies, I think the new Batman Begins has totally set a new standard for future Batman films.
And this is coming from someone who was very skeptical about the film before it came out. I really had no idea how Chris Nolan was going to pull this off, but he succeeded in spades.
And this is coming from someone who was very skeptical about the film before it came out. I really had no idea how Chris Nolan was going to pull this off, but he succeeded in spades.
I'm Batman...
Can't wait to see the rest of the reviews. I've been waiting months for someone to review these.
Keaton's footage on the docus looked old to me, although I'm going to research that one. It's hard to tell actually, because he hasn't aged very much since the original film unlike his co-stars.
And yeah, I'm writing up the other three bat flicks as I type this, although I won't touch Begins. Another DVD Active contributor threatened me to stay away from that title... he's already claimed it.
And yeah, I'm writing up the other three bat flicks as I type this, although I won't touch Begins. Another DVD Active contributor threatened me to stay away from that title... he's already claimed it.
Thanks for the review, this being my all-time favorite film, it was nice to see that someone else appreciated the SE DVD as much as I did, I watched the other films' editions first, building up the anticipation for the SE of B89. Lo and behold, I almost died and went to heaven! The wait was worth it, WB delivered in SPADES.
As for Keaton not returning? The footage of him is from 1992 on the set of "Returns," but I found it good enough. Would have been nice for new material (If he'd joined Burton on the commentary, I might've had a heart attack!), but I can understand. His career was never as big after the Batman films. It didn't kill his career, he doesn't do 'B' movies now, but he was permanently cursed with being remembered as Batman, so I guess he'd like to keep out of the loop.
Though, I've heard rumors of his being disappointed at his inability to participate in answer to a question about it at a convention while he was promoting "White Noise."
As for Keaton not returning? The footage of him is from 1992 on the set of "Returns," but I found it good enough. Would have been nice for new material (If he'd joined Burton on the commentary, I might've had a heart attack!), but I can understand. His career was never as big after the Batman films. It didn't kill his career, he doesn't do 'B' movies now, but he was permanently cursed with being remembered as Batman, so I guess he'd like to keep out of the loop.
Though, I've heard rumors of his being disappointed at his inability to participate in answer to a question about it at a convention while he was promoting "White Noise."
I really didn't feel like shelling out the $60 to buy the box set in stores, so I went to a famous online auction web site and got a set for much cheaper, used yet in pristine condition...unfortunately I haven't had time to sit down and watch either of them.
I grew up with these movies and with the rejuvenation of a Batman TV show in the form of the SUPERB animated series with its spin-off movie Mask of the Phantasm. I hold the first Batman film very close to my heart, my parents took me to see it when I was 4 years old!!
And yet, I have a new favorite Batman movie and am desperately awaiting its sequel.
Keaton was great as Batman, but he wasn't convincing as Bruce Wayne to me. Kilmer wasn't that great as Batman, but fit the role of Bruce Wayne perfectly. I won't even mention Clooney... But Bale, however, fits the bill as the dual role of Batman and Bruce Wayne and is therefore, in my eyes, the greatest Batman EVER.
Oh, and nice review, Dustin!
I grew up with these movies and with the rejuvenation of a Batman TV show in the form of the SUPERB animated series with its spin-off movie Mask of the Phantasm. I hold the first Batman film very close to my heart, my parents took me to see it when I was 4 years old!!
And yet, I have a new favorite Batman movie and am desperately awaiting its sequel.
Keaton was great as Batman, but he wasn't convincing as Bruce Wayne to me. Kilmer wasn't that great as Batman, but fit the role of Bruce Wayne perfectly. I won't even mention Clooney... But Bale, however, fits the bill as the dual role of Batman and Bruce Wayne and is therefore, in my eyes, the greatest Batman EVER.
Oh, and nice review, Dustin!
Tyler Foster wrote: I'm kind of stunned that while Jack Nicholson was kind enough to do all-new energetic and informative on-camera interviews for this DVD, Michael Keaton was not.
It's been a few months since I watched the documentary, but I remember Keaton doing new interviews for this, and in fact stating that he gets annoyed at how people will shout out to him, "hey Batman!" since he's done so many other projects. Were these interviews old? They looked new to me.
It's been a few months since I watched the documentary, but I remember Keaton doing new interviews for this, and in fact stating that he gets annoyed at how people will shout out to him, "hey Batman!" since he's done so many other projects. Were these interviews old? They looked new to me.
Great movie and great DVD set. Hell, dont bother buying this DVD, buy all four films in the Boxed Set. However you feel about the films, the bonus materials are worth it.
Will we be seeing reviews for the "Batman Returns", "Batman Forever", "Batman & Robin" and "Batman Begins" Two-Disc Special Editions?
Will we be seeing reviews for the "Batman Returns", "Batman Forever", "Batman & Robin" and "Batman Begins" Two-Disc Special Editions?
Great Batman movie, definitely the best one disregard of the phonomenon, Batman Begins and Keaton is the 2nd best Batman, that now I think Bale has taken over as the ultimate Bruce Wayne!
But I must disagree with your comment on 'snapper case', 'snapper case' are value so much for collectors, that it is rare and not produce anymore...also it gives you something extra as a 'custom case' rather than a normal 'keep case', I called it classic and greatly design for collectable value!
Lastly, thanky you for the review, very much appreciated!
But I must disagree with your comment on 'snapper case', 'snapper case' are value so much for collectors, that it is rare and not produce anymore...also it gives you something extra as a 'custom case' rather than a normal 'keep case', I called it classic and greatly design for collectable value!
Lastly, thanky you for the review, very much appreciated!
Tyler, I was stunned too. I admire Nicholson for not acting like he's too good to come back and do retrospective interviews for the DVD. Some actors I guess regret their involvment? Even Tommy Lee Jones came back for new interviews. Screw Keaton.
this is easily one of the best special editions in history along with...
Brazil Criterion
Angel Heart SE
Clerks. X
Heathers (it's not packed but it's perfect)
Fear And Loathing In Las Vegas Criterion
From Dusk Till Dawn SE
Sin City SE
and loads more
Brazil Criterion
Angel Heart SE
Clerks. X
Heathers (it's not packed but it's perfect)
Fear And Loathing In Las Vegas Criterion
From Dusk Till Dawn SE
Sin City SE
and loads more
I'm kind of stunned that while Jack Nicholson was kind enough to do all-new energetic and informative on-camera interviews for this DVD, Michael Keaton was not.
I'd also heard that the commentary was to be recorded with a special guest. Having heard that around the time the atrocious White Noise was released on DVD, I hoped it would be Keaton. Keaton on the commentaries for 1 and 2 would have vastly improved an already great set.
I'd also heard that the commentary was to be recorded with a special guest. Having heard that around the time the atrocious White Noise was released on DVD, I hoped it would be Keaton. Keaton on the commentaries for 1 and 2 would have vastly improved an already great set.
deepdiscountdvd.com has the first 4 batman films for $10.38 each with free shipping
I've been wanting to pick this up - but I haven't been able to find it for under $20 - I might just have to give in and pay the extra cash. I used to have the single disc release - but it's reprehensible quality turned it into a re-sell. I've got the "Batman Returns" 2 disc set - but, like I said, I just can't find this one for a decent price. Anybody know a good place to buy it?


Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13
Disc Details
Release Date:
18th October 2005
Discs:
2
Disc Type:
Single side, dual layer
RCE:
Yes
Video:
NTSC
Aspect:
1.85:1
Anamorphic:
Yes
Colour:
Yes
Audio:
Dolby Digital 5.1 English, DTS 5.1 English, Dolby Digital 5.1 English
Subtitles:
English, French, Spanish
Extras:
Commentary by Tim Burton, Theatrical Trailer, Legends of the Dark Knight: The History of Batman, On the Set with Bob Kane, Shadows of the Bat: The Cinematic Saga of the Dark Knight, Beyond Batman, Three Music Videos by Prince, Heroes and Villains Gallery, Batman: The Complete Robin Storyboard Sequence
Easter Egg:
No
Feature Details
Director:
Tim Burton
Cast:
Jack Nicholson, Michael Keaton, Kim Basinger, Pat Hingle, Michael Gough, Billy Dee Williams
Genre:
Action and Adventure
Length:
126 minutes
Ratings
Amazon.com
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