Batman: The Killing Joke Does Not Live Up to Expectations & We Chat w/ the Creators & Kevin Conroy
Batman: The Killing Joke, based off the Alan Moore comic book, has finally been adapted to an animated movie. After years of waiting, fans get their chance to see the iconic book come to life; however, it may not exactly be what they want.
The Killing Joke is essentially the origin story for Batman’a best known villain, The Joker. The film opens with a prequel for Batgirl, or Barbara Gordon, that sets up The Joker committing his most vile move yet: taking Commissioner Gordon hostage. Now, it is up to Batman to find and save Gordon before it is too late.
Bruce Timm, Sam Liu and Brian Azzarello took on adapting the graphic novel to a feature length film and tried to stay true to the Killing Joke’s original storyline. The trio created the prequel to give fans better insight into Barbara Gordon, voiced beautifully by Tara Strong, and her role in Batman’s life. However, in taking several liberties with the character, their portrayal of her in this prequel did absolutely nothing aside from make fans uncomfortable. It was as if their goal was to erase who she was and the events from her past. What was once a strong and complex character quickly became a stereotype, someone who gives up everything for a man.
In the Killing Joke, Mark Hamil and Kevin Conroy once again return to voice The Joker and Batman and do an incredible job. These two are made for these characters and their work helped bring to life this chilling psychodrama. The pair have become inextricably linked to these characters and it is clearly evident in this film as to why. Their voices lend a certain humanity and vigor to two of the most famous foes in pop culture.
For those who want to see the movie, see it on Digital or DVD (Out on DVD on August 2). This way you can skip the prequel and go right to the Killing Joke portion of the film. That portion will definitely leave fans in a good place.
Grade:
Prequel: D
Killing Joke: A-
Under the jump you will find our interviews with Bruce Timm and Sam Liu. Above is our interview with Batman himself, Kevin Conroy!