Introduction"Batman: The Killing Joke" is a 2016 animated superhero film based on the 1988 DC Comics graphic novel of the very same name by Alan Moore and Brian Bolland. Produced by Warner Bros. Animation and DC Entertainment, the film provides the Joker's origin story and his effort to drive Commissioner Gordon insane.
PlotThe movie starts with Batgirl aka Barbara Gordon, ending up being obsessed with stopping Paris Franz, a mobster. She grows significantly reckless up until Batman intervenes to prevent her vigilante actions, fearing for her security. She reacts emotionally, exposing her romantic feelings for Batman, which leads to an intimate encounter. After this, Batman decides they need to end their collaboration, leaving Barbara heartbroken.
Main NarrativeTransitioning to the primary story, the Joker leaves from Arkham Asylum and shoots Barbara, immobilizing her from the waist down. He abducts Commissioner Gordon, planning to drive him insane as an evidence that anybody can lose their peace of mind after having a bad day, similar to he did. The Joker tortures Gordon with gruesome images of his injured daughter in an abandoned theme park.
Concurrently, Batman searches for the Joker. In doing so, he starts recollecting about a possible origin story for the Joker: a stopped working comic who turned to criminal offense to support his pregnant partner, only to have her die in a freak accident. Required to continue with the crime, an encounter with Batman results in the comedian falling into a barrel of chemicals, damaging him and activating his descent into insanity.
Climax and ConclusionIn the climax of the movie, Batman saves Commissioner Gordon from the Joker's clutches and they guarantee each other that they will bring the Joker to justice within the limits of the law, despite his abhorrent actions. Courageously, Gordon firmly insists Batman record the Joker "by the book" to "reveal him that our way works". Following Gordon's dreams, Batman nabs the Joker without turning to violence.
The final series of the movie features Batman providing the Joker a chance to redeem himself, which the Joker regretfully declines, mentioning it's too late for him. The Joker then tells a joke that paradoxically reflects their substantial situation, leading them both to share a laugh, signifying the complexity and withstanding nature of their rivalry.
General Reception and Legacy"Batman: The Killing Joke" got combined evaluations from critics, although Mark Hamill's efficiency as the Joker was widely praised. Some critics and fans took issue with the added story featuring Batgirl, arguing it detracted from the main plot, and unnecessarily sexualized the character. In spite of the criticism, the movie was a commercial success, making $4.4 million from a one-night theatrical release, and acquiring a considerable cult following among fans of the graphic novel. The film eventually adds to the enduring legacy of Batman and the Joker, showcasing their complex and renowned competition.
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