Second Movie serial of the Dynamic Duo that reveals some excellent storyline
In its precedent serial, Batman offered a politically-charged storyline that although good, could be seen as contrived and manipulated by various political agendas and prejudices linked to World War Two. So looking at the 1943 series from a recent angle, it will look outdated and racist. But for this adventure of Batman, made six years later, the final product is different. Closer to the quality in the original comic book series. But implementing the new elements of the first serial. Which are the Batcave and a slim mustached Alfred Penningworth. And for this adventure, the appearance of Vicki Vale, reporter and girlfriend of Bruce Wayne that Tim Burton would present in his 1989 movie.
But unlike Burton’s project, this serial does not feature the Joker, nor any of the legendary villains in the DC catalogue. Instead, a one-time antagonist called The Wizard. Masked and mysterious, his machines distort the mechanism of many machines. Cars, trains, and planes; endangering the security of Gotham City. And as Batman and Robin investigate, they will have to challenge someone who will tamper with their Batmobile and make their work harder than usual. Especially as Vicki Vale is trying to investigate on the subject for her newspaper, which gets her in trouble with The Wizard and his goons.
Through this conflict, we see the Batman and Robin trying to fight this matter while also attempting to unmask the Wizard. As to who he is, potential figures are mentionned. But the final revelation is a pretty good twist. And in its showdowns, it is awesome how the car chases and plane pursuits are more impressive than in the first serial. Same thing for the fights which are better choreographed and exciting.
Regarding the cast, the actors are entirely different from the first film. But each of them are perfect for their performances and deserve to be remembered for their work as they are not big celebrities, but have done nevertheless a great job in this serial.
And with the music, the soundtrack offers a superb range of compositions. Action and adventure partitions that will delight the fans of the Dark Knight and ravish their viewing experience. Especially as there are lots of great composers in the 1940s that have been forgotten in time and, like the actors of their productions, we must not forget their contributions.
But regarding the Batcave and the manor, this is where the film is a bit of a let down as the Wayne Manor is not set on a mountain or distant location, but is instead in a suburb and looks like a two floor suburban house rather than a manor. Which is pretty disappointing and ordinary as Bruce is a billionaire and would need something bigger and better for his business. Furthermore, knowing that the Batcave is set in a mountainous location makes it weird to place it in a suburban area, which turns the Batcave more into a small basement rather than an epic base. Furthermore, I find it hilarious that to get to the Batmobile, Batman and Robin simply exit from the front door of their house and go to Wayne’s car located in the open air garage. For the whole street to see. Which makes it so hilarious and indiscreet since anybody on the street would see them and put two and two together as to who is the dynamic duo. Was this absence of Manor location due to Budget constraints? Anyway, it is a bit hilarious to see something that so many would pinpoint out such absurd logistical incoherence.
Nevertheless, this Batman serial remains a gratifying experience for fans. Lasting 15 chapters, agreeable to watch one episode each day. A nice pillar of storytelling in the Detective Comics culture.
Omnes's Oasis 