Marie Lu’s Batman: Nightwalker is not just another superhero story; it’s a captivating dive into the early days of Bruce Wayne, offering readers an intimate glimpse into the formative experiences that sculpt the Dark Knight. Through Lu’s immersive narrative style, we’re introduced to a Gotham City teeming with suspense, emotion, and the intricate dynamics that set the stage for Batman’s legendary justice crusade.
Batman, the timeless hero who has stood up for humankind for more than 80 years, continues to inspire and captivate audiences. With his intelligence, bravery, and unwavering will to persevere, Batman has become a symbol of justice and heroism. To celebrate this iconic character’s legacy, the Batman 80th Anniversary Collection brings together 18 thrilling DCU animated movies that beautifully capture the essence of Batman’s crusade against injustice.
I’ve always loved Batman. Growing up, I watched my VHS copy of the 1989 film, Batman, so many times that it came apart one day and destroyed our VCR. I also have fond memories of watching Batman: The Animated Series, and, of course, dressing up as Batman for Halloween.
Like many people, I eagerly awaited the final film in Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy, The Dark Knight Rises. I recently saw it, and I’m glad to report that it’s better than I expected. But before I explain why, let me share my thoughts on the first two films in this saga.
I think Batman Begins is fantastic; not only did it feature a stellar cast, but it told Batman’s origin story in a gritty fashion. While the sequel, The Dark Knight, was an excellent film, I don’t consider it to be one of the greatest films of all time or even as good as Batman Begins. Yes, it featured Heath Ledger as the Joker, who did a fine job, but I feel the villain was the focus of the film, not Batman. To me, this made it less enthralling than its predecessor. 
My only complaint is that Catwoman seems to have been shoehorned into the film for no apparent reason. While I’m always in favor of seeing Anne Hathaway in a tight, leather outfit, her character wasn’t fleshed out enough for me to care about her. Hathaway did an excellent job with what she had, but the film would have been just as good had the character not been present. 
