Controversial change might leave fans divided on ‘Batman: The Killing Joke’

Since they began adapting some of their greatest works and graphic novels into full-length features, DC Entertainment has more or less set the bar by delivering some of the best animated films to date. With a rich history and library of comic book characters that span over 80 years of history, it’s hard to imagine not seeing your favorites come into play and getting their own DC Universe Animated Original Movie feature.

Naturally when one thinks of DC Comics, they also think of the publisher’s iconic characters like The Batman—who has had the most number of animated features, adapted from classic storylines or otherwise. From Batman: Year One to Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, and even original movies based on recent New 52 storylines such as Son of Batman, there’s plenty of Batman-related material to be animated…and fans couldn’t have been happier when one of the most controversial storylines finally got the go-ahead to be produced: Batman: The Killing Joke.

Based on the 1988 graphic novel of the same name written by Alan Moore and illustrated by Brian Bolland—which depicts a gruesome and very personal confrontation between The Dark Knight and his archnemesis The Joker that leaves both men even more conflicted about their eternal feud—the movie proves to be just as daring, ambitious, and controversial as the source material itself.

First confirmed and announced during the 2015 edition of the San Diego Comic Con, The Killing Joke was long petitioned by fans to get the animated movie treatment, with legendary actor and voice talent Mark Hamill even willing to reprise his role as The Joker for the film. Soon enough, Hamill was joined by Batman voice actor Kevin Conroy and Tara Strong, who reprised her role as Batgirl in the film. With the cast confirmed and a release date for July 2016 set for SDCC and selected theaters, The Killing Joke was arguably one of the most anticipated DC Animated Movies.

But unfortunately, this adaptation had some changes made to it that might leave most fans divided and underwhelmed to say the least.

Unlike the book and due to how short the actual story was as compared to other graphic novels, Batman: The Killing Joke was given a prologue that focuses on Batgirl, her relationship with Batman, and Paris Franz, a criminal who objectifies Barbara Gordon’s alter ego. While producer Bruce Timm stated that the additional content was added to give more “emotional connection” to Batgirl/ Barbara after what happens to her later when The Joker shoots her, it does the complete opposite and instead serves as unnecessary filler.

It's also a highly controversial addition, changing the relationship between Batgirl and Batman into a romantic one—and having them consummate it on a rooftop to boot.

While one can argue that there have always been lingering feelings between Batgirl and Batman in other portrayals, most Batfans remember Barbara being romantically involved with Dick Grayson, better known as the first Robin and later Nightwing. Many see Batman and Batgirl as having more of a father-daughter relationship rather than a romantic one, and that is what has caused much debate on the internet after the release of the film.

The rest ofThe Killing Joke runs without a hitch and is another highlight in Batman’s history, successfully animated and brought to life. Kevin Conroy and Mark Hamill work beautifully together, and there's excitement in seeing the Caped Crusader chase after The Clown Prince of Crime after his most diabolical scheme nearly drives one of The Bat’s closest allies mad. TheJoker's origin is also delivered in the best and most tragic manner possible, thanks to the rich score and the emphasis Hamill puts into making the soon-to-be Joker just another victim of fate and circumstance.

This is one animated film that really deserved its R rating, and shows that even a superhero like Batman can be subjected to the kind of darkness and insanity that comes with fighting pure evil incarnate in The Joker.

Overall, I’d recommend Batman: The Killing Joke to fans who enjoy different takes of The Caped Crusader and don’t mind the discrepancies and liberties taken in adapting Batman's history to film. The controversial storyline doesn't exactly fit into the main tale, but hearing veteran voice talents from Batman: The Animated Series is always a treat, and Mark Hamill just owns it as The Joker. — BM, GMA News

Batman: The Killing Joke is now available digitally through iTunes and other services, and will be available in Blu-Ray and DVD on August 2.