Batman
Vs. Robin: Gift Set
[including Batman 'limited edition' action figure] (2015/DC
Comics/Warner Blu-ray w/DVD)
Picture:
B+/B Sound: B+/B Extras: C+/D Film: B+
New
to home video is Batman
vs. Robin
(2015), the sequel to the previously reviewed Son
of Batman.
Whereas this reviewer's feeling about Son
of Batman were
lukewarm at best; this sequel truly kicks it up a notch in terms of
both content and quality.
See
the review of Son
of Batman
below:
http://www.fulvuedrive-in.com/review/12768/Son+Of+Batman+(2014/Warner/DC+Blu-ray
Batman
vs. Robin somewhat
follows the comic written by Scott Snyder entitled Batman:
Court of the Owls;
which establishes that a secret society has been manipulating Gotham
city since the turn of the century and being somewhat reminiscent of
The
League of Shadows.
Following up the events of Son
of Batman the
story focuses mainly on Damian Wayne (Bruce's son, voiced by Stuart
Allan) as he is solicited by the Court of the Owls. Batman (voiced
by Jason O'Mara) and the new Robin (Damian) remain at odds as Damian
does not understand and objects to Batman's unwaveringness to kill
criminals. The Court of Owls take advantage of the moral conflicts
within Damian as he struggles with the vision his father has for him
versus that of Ra's Al Ghul who continues to lurk in the shadows of
his mind. It boils down to an all-out battle between Batman and
Robin with surprising results. Fans will appreciate this interesting
and energetic look into the caped crusader, as the main focus is on
Robin rather than Batman himself.
The
story moves along nicely, infusing a variety of emotional elements
including but not limited to fear, honor, love, hate, depression, and
so much more. Beyond the battles of pure skill and strength, Batman
vs Robin is
a twisting tail as father and son struggle to relate resulting in an
epic end.
The
technical features on the Batman
vs. Robin Blu-ray
are fantastic. This straight to home video Blu-ray/DVD/Digital Copy
set's picture is presented in a vivid and stunning 1080p digital High
Definition 16 X 9/1.78 X 1 widescreen that adequately balances the
dark shadows that Batman is so well known for, along with bursts of
color. The image is crisp, clean, and clear without many issues to
speak of; whereas not perfect, it is a stunning direct to video
release. The sound is a lossless DTS-HD MA (Master Audio) 5.1
lossless mix that makes adequate use of the surrounds throughout in
all areas; music, action, and dialogue. Panning effects could be
better, but overall the atmosphere created puts viewers in the heart
of the action.
The
set up for review here was the 'limited edition' Batman
vs. Robin: Gift Set,
which included a limited edition Batman action figure. The figure is
a nice inclusion that will have Batman fans/action figure collectors
clamoring to get one; but overall I would call the figure's mold and
paint job crude. I will proudly display the figure, but certainly
not the most detailed representation of Batman available.
The
DVD is merely a downgrade of the nicely done Blu-ray presentation.
Extras
include the following:
Exclusive
to Blu-ray...
Gotham
City Secret Featurettes:
Batman
vs. Robin
Audio Commentary
From
DC comics vault 4 bonus cartoons
Sneak
Peak at DC Universe's Next Animated Movie - Justice
League: Gods and Monsters
Whereas
the direct to home video DC releases have been a mixed bag as the
creators have experimented with different types of animation and
string together the Batman mythos established various comics and
other films; this release is fun, action packed, and retains a solid
storyline throughout.
-
Michael P. Dougherty II
