The Batman
4K Ultra HD Blu-ray
Score: 90
from 7 reviewers
Review Date:
Matt Reeves' The Batman reinvigorates the franchise with a definitive noir detective twist, acclaimed for its aesthetic, narrative, and home release quality.
Disc Release Date
True 4K
HDR10
Dolby Vision
Dolby Atmos
Dolby TrueHD
Video: 96
The Batman's 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray offers a visually stunning, dark, and detailed native 4K experience with Dolby Vision HDR, showcasing Greig Fraser's captivating cinematography.
Audio: 95
The Batman's 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray delivers an immersive Dolby Atmos audio that combines pervasive soundscapes, deep LFE, and crisp dialogue, creating a palpable, thrilling experience that complements its visuals.
Extra: 91
The Batman's three-disc set features a comprehensive exploration of its making, spotlighting in-depth featurettes on characters, design, and choreography, alongside a special Gotham Planning featurette in the HMV exclusive, all aimed at enriching the viewing experience for Batman enthusiasts.
Movie: 87
Matt Reeves' The Batman introduces a gritty, detective-focused Gotham, revitalizing iconic characters and distinctly marking its territory in the superhero genre, despite its length.
Video: 96
The Batman's 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray release, courtesy of Warner, is a true showcase of how advanced home video technology can elevate a movie's visual impact to new heights. With a native 4K resolution (3840x2160/24p), employing the HEVC (H.265) codec, and presented in the movie's original cinematic aspect ratio of 2.39:1, this release takes full advantage of available technology including Wide Colour Gamut (WCG), High Dynamic Range (HDR), and Dolby Vision. The film, captured using Arri Alexa LF, Mini LF, and Sony CineAlta Venice digital cameras in resolutions up to 6K, benefits immensely from these specifications. Greig Fraser's cinematography shines through with unparalleled clarity, as each scene, from the gritty streets of Gotham to the visually striking red flare scene, is rendered with extraordinary detail and vibrant colors that fully exploit the enhanced dynamic range and color spectrum provided by Dolby Vision HDR. This results in images that are richly textured, with deep blacks that add depth and dimension, making for a visually arresting presentation.
The disc itself occupies a triple-layered UHD disc (100GB), ensuring that compression artifacts are kept to a minimum and allowing Gotham's dark, shadow-laden environments to be displayed with exceptional fidelity. This fidelity is critical to preserving the mood and atmosphere of the film, with its emphasis on shadows and darkness complemented by occasional bursts of color from neon lights or the Batmobile's fiery exhaust. Despite the film's deliberately restrained color palette, HDR and Dolby Vision enhancements ensure that colors are rendered with precision, highlighting subtle differences in tones and illuminating details that would otherwise be lost in the shadows.
This release represents a reference-quality presentation of The Batman in 4K. The disc not only demonstrates the benefits of high dynamic range and wider color gamuts but also excels in its portrayal of fine details like skin textures, fabric nuances, and the grimy realism of Gotham City. Even in its darkest scenes, where most of the film strategically resides, the clarity and depth allow for an immersive viewing experience. The Batman on 4K UHD Blu-ray is more than just a testament to the prowess of modern home cinema technology; it encapsulates the dark, moody essence of its titular character and the gothic allure of Gotham City itself, making it an essential addition for aficionados seeking the ultimate visual experience.
Audio: 95
The Batman's 4K UHD Blu-ray release elevates the home viewing experience with its exemplary Dolby Atmos audio mix, meticulously engineered to complement the film's visually arresting aesthetics. The soundtrack's design is intricate, leveraging the Atmos' object-based capabilities to envelop viewers in Gotham's brooding atmosphere. From the incessant rainfall to the palpable tension of whispered dialogues in the shadowy crevices of Gotham, the audio presentation is nothing short of immersive. The dynamic range is impressive, with Michael Giacchino's ominously minimalist score and the visceral impact of action sequences exemplifying the mix's breadth. Noteworthy is the Batmobile's engine roar, providing a robust low-frequency response that's as threatening as it is exhilarating. Dialogues remain crystal clear and coherent, a testament to the mix's balance and fidelity.
The Dolby Atmos track excels in creating a three-dimensional soundscape, where the verticality brings a tangible depth to scenes, whether it be through rain cascading from above or the vertiginous heights of Gotham's architecture. The mix actively engages all channels, rendering environments with astounding realism; clubs pulse with diegetic music, streets resonate with the chaos of pursuit, and quiet moments are filled with atmospheric subtleties. This auditory precision extends to the meticulously crafted action sequences, where directional effects and a commanding LFE presence heighten the visceral thrill without overwhelming the intricate layers of sound that give the film its atmospheric density.
Furthermore, the variety of audio formats and language options ensure accessibility for a broad audience, including multiple Dolby Atmos language tracks and extensive subtitle selections. This comprehensive auditory experience reinforces "The Batman" as a benchmark in home theater presentations, showcasing how cutting-edge sound engineering can intensify storytelling, character presence, and the overall cinematic experience. The meticulous detail in sound placement, combined with the robustness of environmental effects and score, sets a new standard for immersive audio tracks in the realm of home entertainment.
Extra: 91
The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "The Batman" features a comprehensive and well-curated collection of extras spread across a dedicated third disc, ensuring fans have plenty to dive into after the credits roll. The included featurettes, such as "Vengeance in the Making," offer an hour-long deep dive into the film's production, providing fans with a detailed look at the genesis of this younger Batman and the meticulous efforts involved in its creation. From the raw, street-fighting choreography discussed in "Looking for Vengeance" to the intricate design and engineering of "The Batmobile," each segment is focused and informative. Character transformations, particularly Colin Farrell's transformation into The Penguin, are explored in detail, emphasizing the exceptional makeup and prosthetics work. Furthermore, two deleted scenes with optional commentary add depth and offer insights into decisions made during the film's editing process. Despite the absence of concept art galleries or an all-encompassing director's commentary on the disc (notably available on the iTunes digital version), the collection remains a near-exemplary showcase of behind-the-scenes content, focusing squarely on the creative process without filler.
Extras included in this disc:
Vengeance In The Making: An extensive look into the making of the film. Vengeance Meets Justice: Explores the parallels between Batman and The Riddler. The Batman: Genesis: Insight into casting and character development. Becoming Catwoman: Zoë Kravitz’s journey to becoming Catwoman. Looking for Vengeance: Behind-the-scenes on Batman's fight choreography. Anatomy of The Car Chase: Breakdown of a key action sequence. Anatomy of The Wingsuit: Focus on one of Batman’s gadgets and its featured scene. A Transformation: The Penguin: Deep dive into Colin Farrell’s makeup and transformation. The Batmobile: The design and build of Batman's iconic vehicle. Unpacking The Icons: Exploring costume and prop design. Deleted Scenes with Director’s Commentary: Additional scenes offering more insights.
Movie: 87
The Batman," directed by Matt Reeves, plunges into a gritty, raw depiction of Gotham City, presenting a fresh narrative in the Batman saga that captivates with its noir-like atmosphere and intricate detective work. With Robert Pattinson donning the cape and cowl, the film carves out a unique space amidst the pantheon of Batman portrayals, offering an intense, year-two Batman who is as imposing in physical combat as he is proficient in detective work. Pattinson's portrayal, coupled with Paul Dano's chilling rendition of The Riddler, Colin Farrell's unrecognizable performance as Oswald Cobblepot, and Zoë Kravitz's compelling Selina Kyle, underscores the film’s success in reimagining familiar characters with profound depth and complexity. The narrative strides confidently into darker territories, leveraging a psychological thriller veneer that harks back to the sinister tones found in David Fincher's filmography, especially with its Riddler, a character reborn as a menacing symbol of internet-fueled fanaticism.
Reeves’ vision for "The Batman" is bolstered significantly by its technical prowess. The movie's visual presentation is lauded for being one of the most visually arresting in superhero cinema, matched by an equally imposing score from Michael Giacchino that amplifies the brooding character of Gotham itself—presented here as more than just a backdrop but as a living, breathing entity fraught with corruption and decay. This rendition of Batman emphasizes his detective roots more heavily than previous iterations, engaging audiences with a script rich in intrigue and suspense woven through a citywide web of conspiracy and terror. Criticism towards the movie’s lengthy runtime notwithstanding, it was deemed necessary to flesh out its densely layered narrative and complex character interactions, culminating in a compelling reimagining that still respects the source material’s essence.
Throughout its narrative journey, "The Batman" succeeds in being both a homage to and a departure from its predecessors. It threads the needle between honoring the mythos and exploring uncharted territories within Batman's character and his world—presenting a Gotham rife with crime and a vigilante at its heart battling not just for justice but for his own soul. The film's focus on tone, character development, and atmospheric storytelling marks a significant point of evolution for the superhero genre. While it may sail through familiar seas, Reeves steers the ship with a commendable zeal for exploration and innovation—crafting a story that resonates deeply with new audiences and long-time fans alike, promising exciting future endeavors in this renewed Dark Knight saga.
Total: 90
Warner Bros.' release of "The Batman" on 4K UHD Blu-ray has been met with a mixture of acclaim and slight critique, but the consensus leans heavily towards the film being a visually striking and atmospheric interpretation that does justice to the character's detective roots. The 3-disc set boasts an impressive Dolby Vision-enhanced 4K video quality and a thunderously intense Dolby Atmos track that together offer a commendable home theater experience. This edition is packed with over two hours of compelling bonus features on a dedicated second Blu-ray Disc, with no extras on the 4K or the main movie Blu-ray Disc, providing an in-depth exploration into the film's creation, albeit with one featurette remaining exclusive to the HMV set.
The film itself, directed by Matt Reeves, is celebrated for its return to the noir detective foundations of the Batman character, blending elements from the character's 80-year history across various media to craft a unique and engaging narrative. Despite some criticism regarding its runtime and pacing, the production quality, narrative depth, and homage to the Dark Knight’s legacy have been widely applauded. The visual presentation in UHD is described as reference quality, bringing Gotham City's dark and ominous atmosphere into sharp relief, with the film's audio mix complementing this with demo-worthy depth and clarity.
In conclusion, "The Batman" 4K UHD Blu-ray stands out as a must-have for both dedicated Bat-fans and those new to the Batman saga, presenting a near-perfect combination of high-quality video and audio presentation with a rich set of extras. While there are minor criticisms concerning the film’s length and focus, the overall package delivers an immersive experience that honors the legacy of Gotham's greatest detective. Warner Bros.' efforts in bringing this iteration of Batman to life on home video are highly commendable, making this release an essential addition to any collection.
avforums review by Casimir HarlowRead review here
Video: 100
Audio: 100
WCG and HDR (of the Dolby Vision variety) only go on to enhance the image - and the above-mentioned imagery - with some glorious, vibrant tones on offer, leaving the shots picture-perfect, lapping up the...
Dialogue may be rendered clearly and coherently throughout - largely from across the frontal array - but this movie is all about the score and effects, putting you on the edge for the majority of the piece,...
Extra: 90
Movie: 80
Genesis looks at the younger Bruce Wayne and Batman that they focussed on; Vengeance Meets Justice spends 8 minutes looking at the two sides of Batman and Riddler; 9 minutes of Becoming Catwoman does what...
Gotham, Pennyworth, Batwoman, Titans, Joker... and with more on the way, the only shock is really that they found a decent, modern, different Batman in Affleck and didn't get a single solo movie out of...
Total: 90
EDIT: With the UK 'standard' release of The Batman now in-hand we can confirm that it is indeed a 3-disc set (the packaging and listing are somewhat misleading) with all bar one of the extras, as noted...
Blu-ray.com review by Randy Miller IIIRead review here
Video: 100
Audio: 80
It's also aided greatly by Dolby Vision / HDR10 enhancement, which goes a long way in preserving the intentionally harsh brightness of strong but sporadic light sources, from store windows and glaring...
There's more sonic variety than expected here, with most tied directly to the camera angle or point-of-view at hand, from an in-wall shot at the Gotham City morgue to over-the-shoulder and first-person...
Extra: 100
Movie: 80
In The Making (53:41) - Easily the most substantial featurette on this disc (but curiously hiding in the middle), this mid-length piece features a wealth of participants -- many listed above -- who speak...
Another Fincher film that The Batman perpetually recalls is Zodiac (if only for The Riddler's borderline goofy costume and fondness for ciphers), which earned its nearly three-hour running time with an...
Total: 70
Matt Reeves' The Batman is an accomplished piece of atmospheric cinema and the solid first step of a planned trilogy, even if bits and pieces of its story and narrative flow show some room for improvement....
The Digital Bits review by Tim SalmonsRead review here
Video: 100
Audio: 100
The HDR adds pleasing subtleties to the color palette, and strongly benefits both shadows and brightly-bold highlights alike, resulting in a remarkably deep and dimensional looking image....
The dialogue is clean and easily discernible, composer Michael Giacchino’s brooding score is presented with lovely fidelity, and the action sequences deliver plenty of bluster....
Extra: 80
Movie: 80
In all, the content adds up to nearly two hours worth of material and it’s all refreshing, not quite in-depth yet still interesting because each piece is focused—getting right to the heart of the film’s...
Despite the character’s appearance in the subsequent Dawn of Justice and Justice League, fans were craving a solo Batman film that was actually in development at the time, with Ben Affleck set to return...
Total: 90
The Batman is overlong, a bit indulgent, and could stand some focusing in the edit, but it’s well grounded and successfully brings the character back to its hard boiled/noir detective roots....
DoBlu review by Matt PaprockiRead review here
Video: 100
Audio: 100
What matters is how well detail stands out from the deepest parts in the frame, whether it’s Batman’s suit or a black jacket; there’s always definition achieved, because the brilliantly smooth transitions...
Gotham breathes through this entire movie, whether the score reaches around to hit every channel or steam hisses from sewers....
Extra: 80
Movie: 60
The major piece is Vengeance in the Making, a nearly hour-long making-of documentary, and best-in-class stuff....
While most Batman stories celebrate the wealth of the hero, The Batman finds the villainy in that as well, anchored to a contemporary eat the rich/Occupy Wall Street mindset that doesn’t ignore Wayne’s...
Total: 85
While successful in mood and style, The Batman’s stuffy, overwrought runtime doesn’t feel necessary or useful to this unique take on the character....
High-Def Digest review by Matthew HartmanRead review here
Video: 90
Audio: 100
The Dolby Vision pass has a lot of work to do with the black levels and it handles the load magnificently....
Action sequences like the big car chase, the final climactic fight sequence, or the pulsating music of the Iceberg Lounge go full immersion blasting throughout the channels without drowning out score,...
Extra: 80
Movie: 90
Anatomy of a Car Chase (HD 6:08 Anatomy of the Wing Suit Jump (HD 6:29) Unpacking the Icons (HD 5:47)...
This 8chan fringe conspiracy extremist version of Riddler is just damn chilling and like Pattinson, Dano gets very little actual face time instead hiding behind an arctic combat mask streaming his crimes...
Total: 90
While past films have had their highlights with the characters, it didn’t feel like Matt Reeves pulled from just one or two sources but the entire 80-year history of comics, television shows, films, and...
AVSForum review by Ralph PottsRead review here
Video: 96
Audio: 96
I wondered what new direction could possibly bring renewed essence to the general story arc....
This film is tailor made for immersive sound as the blend of audio objects placed in the height channels contains atmospherics and discrete effects....
Extra: 100
Movie: 80
Disc 1: The Batman Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc 2: The Batman Blu-ray Disc 3: Special Features Blu-ray • Vengeance In The Making • Vengeance Meets Justice • The Batman: Genesis • Becoming Catwoman • Looking for...
With only a few trusted allies—Alfred (Andy Serkis), Lt. James Gordon (Jeffrey Wright)—amongst the city’s corrupt network of officials and high-profile figures, the lone vigilante has established himself...
Total: 93
proves that apparently there is still room to draw from the well in bringing a viable and entertaining live-action film featuring the iconic Dark Knight to the masses....
Why So Blu? review by Brandon PetersRead review here
Video: 100
Audio: 100
Color Reproduction: Not the most colorful of films but the contrasts with the black really help things to pop with the HDR like the salmon sky, fire from the batmobile, fire in general, skin tones, display...
Vocals are clear and crisp, feeling part of every scene and environment and always plenty audible....
Extra: 80
Movie: 70
This one goes over the props and costume details in the film for Batman, Riddler, Catwoman and Penguin....
So kudos to Reeves and company for just focusing on making a film and making it great and then worrying about the future later (Though I’m sure it was on their brain, it doesn’t come across in the film).The...
Total: 80
There are a nice slew of extras here to fill in plenty of your time after the credits have finished rolling....
Director: Matt Reeves
Actors: Robert Pattinson, Zoë Kravitz, Jeffrey Wright
PlotIn the grim and rain-soaked city of Gotham, a new presence emerges from the shadows - a vigilante known only as the Bat. He patrols the night, enforcing his own brand of justice on the criminal underworld that preys upon the metropolis. As his second year of waging this solitary war drags on, a series of cryptic clues and gruesome murders begin to unravel, leading him down a path fraught with corruption and deceit. The trail pits him against sadistic mobsters, corrupt officials, and his own mysterious past.
The clues converge on the city's mayoral election, with the murders acting as a macabre political statement. The Bat is drawn to form an uneasy alliance with a savvy police detective, along with crossing paths with a cat burglar whose motives are as elusive as her identity. Together, they uncover the depths of corruption and decay festering at the heart of Gotham, realizing that the web of villainy is far more entwined within the city's infrastructure than previously thought. As the stakes mount, the Bat finds himself confronting not just the physical dangers of his crusade, but the psychological toll of a city that seems beyond redemption.
MoreWriters: Matt Reeves, Peter Craig, Bob Kane
Release Date: 04 Mar 2022
Runtime: 176 min
Rating: PG-13
Country: United States
Language: English, Spanish, Latin, Italian