Watch Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker

In 2000, the Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker movie was released. The animated movie features the iconic DC Comics superhero, Batman, as he faces off against his arch-nemesis, the Joker. However, this time, the Joker returns in a way that no one could have anticipated. The story of Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker takes place in the future, where Bruce Wayne, the original Batman, has become too old to continue fighting crime. Batman's mantle has been passed down to Terry McGinnis, a new hero who is mentored by Bruce. Meanwhile, the Joker has been presumed dead for years, due to his body being lost in an explosion. However, a new gang called The Jokerz begins to terrorize Gotham City, and it becomes clear that the Joker's influence has returned.

As Terry investigates the Jokerz's activities, he discovers that the Joker is actually alive and well, and has been manipulating the Jokerz for his own twisted agenda. The Joker's return poses a significant threat to both Terry and Bruce, as they are forced to confront the possibility that the Joker has somehow been resurrected.

Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker is a dark and intense movie, with themes of resurrection, betrayal, and trauma. The movie delves into the psychological impact of the Joker's actions on both Batman and the members of the Bat-family. In particular, the relationship between the Joker and Tim Drake, the third Robin, is explored in a way that adds depth and complexity to the story.

The voice acting in Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker is top-notch, with Will Friedle and Kevin Conroy reprising their roles as Terry and Bruce, respectively. However, it is Mark Hamill's performance as the Joker that steals the show. Hamill delivers a chilling and nuanced portrayal of the character, showcasing the Joker's ability to manipulate and torment those around him. The movie also features Angie Harmon as Commissioner Barbara Gordon, adding a strong female presence to the Batman mythology.

The animation in Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker is impressive, with a sleek and futuristic design that sets it apart from other Batman animated adaptations. The action sequences are fast-paced and exciting, with a focus on technology and gadgets that is reminiscent of the James Bond franchise. The movie also incorporates elements of film noir, adding a sense of atmosphere and mood to the story.

Overall, Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker is a thrilling addition to the Batman canon. It manages to honor the legacy of the original Batman while also exploring new territory with the futuristic setting and the introduction of new characters. The movie is a must-see for fans of the Batman universe, as well as anyone who enjoys dark and compelling storytelling.

Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker is a 2000 animated movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 16 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.8.