Watch Catwoman: Hunted

Catwoman: Hunted is an animated DC Universe movie that brings an edgy, stylish flair to the superhero genre. Directed by Shinsuke Terasawa, the film was released in 2022 and is part of the DC Animated Movie Universe which features a vast array of superhero films, though it stands out with its unique anime-influenced animation style and a focus on the antiheroine, Catwoman.

The story follows Selina Kyle, also known as Catwoman, voiced by Elizabeth Gillies, as she embarks on a high-stakes heist that puts her squarely in the sights of both law enforcement and the criminal underworld. Known for her prowess as a thief and her complicated relationship with justice, Catwoman is both a villain and a hero. In this film, her character is fleshed out with elegance and intrigue, making her a complex and alluring protagonist who operates in the morally grey areas of Gotham City.

The plot kicks off with Catwoman attempting to steal a priceless artifact. However, her mission draws the attention of Interpol and the formidable agent named Julia Pennyworth, voiced by Stephanie Beatriz. Pennyworth is determined to bring Catwoman to justice, setting up an exciting cat-and-mouse chase that spans the globe.

Jonathan Banks contributes his captivating voice as Black Mask, a formidable and menacing villain with a vendetta against Catwoman. As the leader of a powerful criminal syndicate, Black Mask is ruthless and will stop at nothing to ensure he comes out on top, adding a significant threat level to Catwoman's adventure.

The movie doesn’t just focus on Selina Kyle's professional life but also dives a little into her personal conundrums, giving viewers a more intimate perspective on what drives her. The film delves into themes such as identity, trust, and the constant battle between personal desires and doing the right thing. Selina's character is portrayed as being fiercely independent, yet her interactions with a diverse cast of DC Universe characters reveal her more vulnerable and loyal sides.

As Catwoman maneuvers through various obstacles, the film introduces us to a plethora of other well-known DC characters, each contributing to the plot's complexity and excitement. The movie includes an ensemble of heroes and villains, some who aid Catwoman in her journey, while others seek to apprehend or exploit her.

The visual style of Catwoman: Hunted stands out with its anime-influenced aesthetic. This choice gives the movie a distinctive look and feel as compared to other entries in the DC Animated Universe. The fluid animation and vibrant designs lend themselves particularly well to the action sequences, which are choreographed with exhilarating precision and creativity.

Music and sound play a pivotal role in Catwoman: Hunted, enhancing the tension and emotion of the storyline. The score weaves seamlessly with the narrative, punctuating moments of triumph and challenge for the characters. The voice acting from the talented cast adds depth and personality to the characters, with each actor delivering a memorable performance that captures their respective roles' essence.

The tone of the film strikes a balance between dark and light-hearted moments, with instances of witty humor peppered throughout to provide levity. This approach allows for a film that is accessible and enjoyable for both long-time fans of the Catwoman comics and newcomers to the character. The fluid genre blending of heist and superhero elements, paired with a dash of espionage, makes Catwoman: Hunted a refreshing and enjoyable watch.

Character development is given its due in the movie, with emotional arcs and backstories that add to the richness of the narrative. Relationships between characters evolve as the story progresses, offering a narrative that is as much about the bonds formed during the journey as it is about the heist itself.

Overall, Catwoman: Hunted offers a fresh take on a classic DC character, packing in all the elements that make for an engaging superhero movie—action, intrigue, moral ambiguity, and character depth. The film is a celebration of the allure and the enigma that is Catwoman, appealing to audiences who appreciate a good adventure with a strong, complex female lead.

Catwoman: Hunted is a 2022 animated movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 19 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6.