Batman Unlimited: Animal Instincts Blu-ray Review

The video presentation of the Blu-ray release of "Batman Unlimited: Animal Instincts" delivers an impressive 1080p/AVC-encoded visual experience. One of its few setbacks is mild, intermittent banding—a common issue with many DC/Warners animated titles. Fortunately, other common issues such as macroblocking, microblocking, and ringing are notably absent, making the viewing experience cleaner and more enjoyable. The animation itself is sharp, with well-defined line art and minimal aliasing, contributing to a consistent visual quality throughout the film.

Where this release truly excels is in its vibrant color presentation. The animation boasts bright and bold hues that pop off the screen. Primaries deliver a toy-aisle punch, while black levels are inky and contrast remains stable, enhancing the overall clarity of the visuals. Unlike many other DC animated releases, which often employ toned-down colors and a gritty haze to appeal to older audiences, "Batman Unlimited: Animal Instincts" opts for a more vivid and colorful palette. This choice significantly elevates its visual appeal, making it one of the better-looking animated titles within the DC/Warners catalog.

The audio presentation of "Batman Unlimited: Animal Instincts" leverages a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track that, while not as cinematic as some DCU Animated Original Movies, remains highly effective. Dialogue is clear and precise, though slightly detached from the soundscape in comparison to the more robust effects and explosions. Notably, the LFE output is consistently powerful, enhancing the depth of the sound. The rear speakers contribute effectively to an engaging soundfield, particularly during action scenes that incorporate super-powered punches, engine whines, and roars. Front-heavy conversations maintain clarity without losing the audience's engagement.

The primary English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track uses the center channel for most dialogue, occasionally utilizing the right and left speakers for distant or echoing voices. Action sequences take full advantage of the rears for directional effects, delivering an immersive experience. LFE use is prominent during explosive scenes, adding significant depth to the mix. The absence of noticeable glitches ensures a clean listening experience. Additionally, 5.1 Dolby Digital tracks are available in Spanish (Latin), Spanish (Castilian), French, and German. Subtitles are provided in English SDH, Spanish (Latin), Spanish (Castilian), German, and French, making the audio presentation accessible to a broad audience.

The extras on the Blu Ray of "Batman Unlimited: Animal Instincts" offer a mix of insightful content and light entertainment, enriching the viewing experience with historical context and animated fun. The Penguin: High Society Criminal featurette delivers a comprehensive look into Oswald Cobblepot's evolution within the DC universe, though its depth may not satisfy all enthusiasts. The DC Nation Shorts collection compiles ten engaging animations, providing quick, enjoyable bites of DC's creative expanse. Additionally, two memorable episodes of Batman: The Brave and the Bold are included, making for nostalgic and delightful viewing. Trailers for other popular titles complete the package, adding value with previews of related content.

Extras included in this disc:

• The Penguin: High Society Criminal: A featurette detailing the Penguin's history in DC Comics.
• DC Nation Shorts: A collection of ten animated shorts.
• From the DC Comics Vault: Two episodes of Batman: The Brave and the Bold.
• Trailers: Previews for Teen Titans Go!, LEGO: DC Superheroes: Justice League vs. Bizarro League, and Tom and Jerry: Spy Quest.

"Batman Unlimited: Animal Instincts" is designed to appeal predominantly to a younger audience but includes enough nostalgic elements to engage parents and adults as well. While its primary purpose appears to be an extension of the "Batman Unlimited" toy line, with various action figures and play sets marketed alongside it, the film manages to deliver a colorful and engaging experience reminiscent of the lighter, more playful animated DC Universe series of yesteryears. The plot, involving Gotham City facing a threat from animal-themed villains known as The Animilitia—Silverback, Cheetah, Killer Croc, and Man-Bat—and their potential ally Oswald Cobblepot aka The Penguin, adds layers of excitement and mystery. Batman teams up with familiar allies like Flash, Green Arrow, Nightwing, and Red Robin to combat this latest menace.

Technically, "Animal Instincts" falls short of the ferocity and finesse often associated with typical DC animated productions. The action sequences feel stilted, the humor leans heavily on puns and one-liners, and the choreography of the fight scenes suffers from poor timing and awkward pauses. Producer/director Butch Lukic's treatment of supporting characters like Flash and Nightwing leaves them underpowered and underutilized, which might disappoint avid fans. Additionally, the villainous characters lack fresh characteristics, offering little that hasn't been seen before. However, children under nine are likely to overlook these flaws, enjoying the fast-paced action and familiar Batman lore. The movie's setting is a futuristic Gotham City, replete with Blade Runner-esque aesthetics including flying police cars, which adds a unique flavor to the familiar Batman universe.

Despite its shortcomings, the film has its moments of inspiration. The character interactions offer humor that can keep older viewers entertained while remaining appropriate for younger audiences. While clearly a marketing tool for the "Batman Unlimited" toy line, "Animal Instincts" achieves a balance between commercial motives and delivering a reasonably entertaining story. The Blu-ray release includes no bloodshed in its action sequences, making it a family-friendly choice among DC's animated offerings. Overall, whether for rental or purchase, it delivers enough fun to warrant a watch.

"Batman Unlimited: Animal Instincts," based on a series of Batman toys from Mattel, is an animated feature that provides an entertaining experience for children but leaves adult viewers wanting more. The film's target audience is clearly younger fans, and it achieves a vibrant, dynamic presentation that will captivate kids. While the plot occasionally feels like a prolonged toy commercial, it avoids recycling the same content repeatedly, offering new twists on the iconic characters. The storyline may not be groundbreaking, but it serves its purpose well within the bounds of its target demographic.

Technically, the Blu-ray release of "Batman Unlimited: Animal Instincts" is commendable. The video presentation is striking, showcasing crisp and colorful animation that truly pops on modern displays. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track is robust, enhancing the viewing experience through dynamic soundscapes and clear dialogue. Additional content, including compelling DC shorts and select episodes from related series, further justifies the purchase for Blu-ray collectors and Batman enthusiasts.

In conclusion, DC continues to experiment with its animated properties, and while "Batman Unlimited: Animal Instincts" is not without its flaws, it represents an effort to offer fresh takes on beloved heroes and villains. It's a decent option for young Bat-fans and offers a solid home media experience. However, adults may find more enjoyment in titles like "Batman: The Brave and the Bold," which provides a more engaging family-friendly Batman adventure. If you decide to go with "Animal Instincts," you can at least count on a high-quality Blu-ray package worth its price tag.