Batman: Soul of the Dragon (2021)

Run-throughs
"Batman: Soul of the Dragon" is a 2021 animated superhero movie executive produced by Bruce Timm and directed by Sam Liu. Launched as part of the DC Universe Animated Original Movies series, the film admires 1970s blaxploitation and martial arts films while focusing around Bruce Wayne's experiences prior to he became Batman.

Plot
The movie starts with Richard Dragon, a popular martial artist and International secret agent, revealing an evil plot that would launch an ancient devastating force. Dragon realises that the hazard is connected to his past and reaches out to his former schoolmates for assistance. He tracks down Bruce Wayne, now operating under the mantle of Batman, and their mutual associate, Ben Turner, or Bronze Tiger.

Flashbacks
The narrative alternates between the present and flashbacks, demonstrating how they were trained by their sensei, O-Sensei. Together with fellow trainees Jade and Lady Shiva, they found out not just physical combat but valuable life lessons. Nevertheless, the 4 of them became involved in an unsafe situation when a mysterious sword, the "Soul Breaker", appeared at their training fortress. The sword was connected to the interdimensional world, the "Kobra Cult". The eviction ends up sealed with Shiva apparently sacrificing herself, however she comes back years later as a primary antagonist.

Present Day
In the present, the team reunites to stop Jeffrey Burr, the leader of Kobra Cult. Burr resurrects eviction of the Naga Kingdom by kidnapping the enduring members of their old group. Shiva, after her obligation is revealed, switches side and helps her buddies to foil Burr's strategy. The group fights to conserve the world from the monstrous devils launched from the Naga Kingdom. Lady Shiva sacrifices herself to close eviction, showing her commitment to her allies.

Conclusion
In the end, the team beats Burr; nevertheless, Shiva's unnecessary self-sacrifice leaves the team downcast. While grieving Shiva's loss, they decide to burn down their training fortress, the Nanda Parbat, to respect Shiva's last wishes. Batman, Richard Dragon, and Bronze Tiger part ways in completion, each embarking on their divided paths.

Crucial Analysis
"Batman: Soul of the Dragon" varies substantially from the other Batman films. It specifically sets Batman in the background of the 70s, distancing him from the superhero role and focusing more on his character as Bruce Wayne and his martial arts abilities. The film portrays a rich blend of action, a funk soundtrack, and deep psychological minutes, making it a refreshing take on the Batman category. While the end is terrible and mournful, it fits within the themes of sacrifice and redemption that the motion picture checks out.

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