Caped Crusader Strikes a New Stylistic Tone in Amazon Series

The debate among animation fans in the coming weeks will center on whether Warner Bros. Discovery’s decision to shop “Batman: Caped Crusader” to Amazon Prime, rather than retaining it for Max, was a misstep.

Based on the reimagining of “Batman: The Animated Series”—a Fox show highly regarded as a defining portrayal of Bob Kane and Bill Finger’s iconic comic character—the answer is perhaps, maybe.

Why Warner Bros. decided to let a competitor benefit from one of its prized properties, which starts streaming on August 1, is a topic of discussion (likely due to cost-cutting). In “Caped Crusader,” producers Bruce Timm, J.J. Abrams, and Matt Reeves (current Batman film director) bring Bruce Wayne and his alter-ego back to the basics.

In this version, the Dark Knight appears to be in a simpler time. This vigilante combats crime in an analog rather than a digital world. The gadgets are minimalistic, and the aesthetic is reminiscent of 1940s film noir. However, the characters reflect contemporary sensibilities. For example, both Jim and Barbara Gordon are African American, much like Jeffrey Wright’s portrayal of Jim Gordon in “The Batman.”

In addition to these modern twists, there is an LGBTQ relationship that is presented as a natural part of the storyline. This highlights Batman’s overdue modernization to align with current societal norms—a change that could have been made during the Fox series era if not for the cautious network censors.

Despite the modern updates, certain elements remain unchanged in this 10-episode series. Bruce Wayne/Batman is still a tormented individual seeking personal vengeance for his parents’ murder by serving as a vigilante in the notoriously corrupt Gotham City. Here, he encounters a cast of eccentric criminals.

“Batman: Caped Crusader” takes significant, refreshing risks with Batman’s well-known rogues’ gallery. While familiar villains like Catwoman maintain origin stories that largely adhere to established lore, others such as Harvey Dent have their backgrounds slightly modified over the 10 episodes.

Harley Quinn, a more recently introduced character, is given a completely different history. Noticeably absent is any reference to The Joker, a mystery that will likely be addressed in the series’ progression.

Moreover, Batman’s relationship with his butler Alfred is noticeably frosty. Here, Alfred is simply referred to as “Pennyworth,” and Batman treats him more as a subordinate, often with cool indifference.

The creators bring Batman back to a time when he was still evolving both in his motivations and emotions. It’s a familiar yet fresh take on the character, keeping viewers intrigued.

Excitingly, the series has already been renewed for a second season, so audiences can anticipate future developments, including The Joker’s entrance.

Show: “Batman: Caped Crusader”
Cast: Hamish Linklater, Haley Joel Osment, Christina Ricci, Diedrich Bader
Directed by: Various
Rated: TV-Y7
Grade: B

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: ‘Batman: Caped Crusader’ strikes a different stylistic tone in new Amazon series

Source: Akron Beacon Journal