Batman: The Killing Joke Blu-ray Review

The video presentation of Warner Bros.' "Batman: The Killing Joke" is generally commendable, adhering to the established aesthetic of previous DCU animated entries. Presented in a 1.78 aspect ratio, it maintains a smooth continuity with its forebears, featuring clean lines and an interesting mix of desaturated and vibrant colors. The resolution and clarity are enhancing factors, contributing to a tack-sharp image with crisp edges and no discernible edge enhancement. Warner's typical 1080p, AVC-encoded transfer, supported by an average bitrate of 15 Mbps, ensures solid image quality devoid of significant artifacts despite maintaining the signature choppy animation style.

The subdued yet impactful use of colors complements the source material effectively. Though not exceptionally bright, the tones integrate well within the narrative context. The contrast is perfectly stable, granting a nice visual ‘pop’ during transitions between light and dark elements. While the blacks do not possess an infinite depth, they are reliably solid and pronounced against mixed content. Dark scenes exhibit excellent gradation and clear delineation of shades, providing a gratifying viewing experience even in shadowy sequences.

However, consistent with earlier DC/Warner Bros. animated releases, this title is not without its caveats. Notably, there's habitual banding throughout the presentation, a recurring issue in DC Universe releases that remains unmitigated here. Additionally, instances of mild pixelation can be observed but are minimal and not overtly distracting. Despite these minor imperfections, the animation captures the essence of the original graphic novel faithfully, producing a visually pleasing offering that aligns well with prior expectations for direct-to-video titles.

The audio presentation of the Blu-ray for "Batman: The Killing Joke" is distinguished by its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, which provides a clean and dynamic listening experience. The dialogue is rendered with notable clarity and tonal nuance, maintaining intelligibility throughout the film. Surround channels are moderately active, primarily used for creating environmental ambiance and subtle front/rear channel pans. This helps to enhance the atmospheric elements of Gotham City, particularly during rainstorm scenes and major fight sequences, though the mix isn't overly aggressive.

The track shines particularly in scenes where ambient noise and music are critical. The music, composed by Kristopher Carter, Michael McCuistion, and Lolita Ritmanis, is well integrated into the mix, adding depth without overshadowing the dialogue or sound effects. Bass extension is respectable, providing a solid underpinning to more action-heavy moments, although it does not dominate the auditory landscape. The mix prioritizes balance over immersion, which fits the film's narrative focus.

There are no technical issues such as dropouts, hissing, or improper mixing noticeable in the audio. In addition to the primary DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track in English, the Blu-ray offers Dolby Digital 5.1 tracks in French, German, and Latin Spanish, as well as a Dolby Digital 2.0 track in Castilian Spanish. Optional subtitles are provided in English SDH, French, German, Latin Spanish, and Castilian Spanish, ensuring accessibility for a broad audience. Overall, while the audio mix might not be the most immersive of DC Universe animated releases, it adequately supports the film's dramatic and environmental needs.

The Blu-ray extras for "Batman: The Killing Joke" provide an extensive and insightful look into various aspects of the DC Universe, appealing to both seasoned fans and those new to the animated adaptation. The high-definition featurettes and archival content offer a rich exploration of the Joker's complexity, alongside appreciable sneak peeks into other DC animated films. The inclusion of classic episodes from "Batman: The Animated Series" and "The New Batman Adventures" adds nostalgic value, making this Blu-ray a comprehensive addition to any collection. Notably, each segment is presented in appropriate video quality, ensuring a consistent and enjoyable viewing experience throughout.

Extras included in this disc:

• Batman: The Animated Series Christmas with The Joker: Classic episode from the animated series.
• The New Batman Adventures Old Wounds: Episode featuring Batman's adventures.
• A Sneak Peek at DC Universe's Next Animated Movie: Preview of 'Justice League Dark.'
• A Sneak Peek at The Dark Knight Returns Part 1: Featurette on 'The Dark Knight Returns Part 1.'
• A Sneak Peek at The Dark Knight Returns Part 2: Insights into the making of 'The Dark Knight Returns Part 2.'
• A Sneak Peek at DCU Batman: Assault on Arkham: Preview of 'Batman: Assault on Arkham.'
• Madness Set to Music: A look at thematic music in 'The Killing Joke.'
• Batman: The Killing Joke – The Many Shades of The Joker: Exploration of the Joker's character.
• Trailers: Promotional trailers for various DC properties.
• Bonus DVD: Additional content.
• Digital HD Copy: Digital version of the movie.

"Batman: The Killing Joke" attempts to adapt one of the most seminal graphic novels into an animated format but ultimately delivers a mixed experience. While the film boasts contributions from Batman: The Animated Series producer Bruce Timm and the iconic voices of Kevin Conroy and Mark Hamill, it is undermined by a troublesome prologue. This extension of Batgirl's story, spanning nearly 28 minutes, introduces a new, unrelated villain and includes controversial narrative decisions, such as her contentious relationship with Batman. This addition aims to evoke greater empathy for Barbara Gordon, but it feels disjointed and detracts from the potency of Alan Moore's original tale.

The heart of the movie, once it transitions into the direct adaptation of Moore and Brian Bolland's graphic novel, significantly improves. The film mirrors the source material's dialogue and visual style, skillfully capturing Joker's tragic origin and his latest scheme to psychologically torment Commissioner Gordon. However, despite this faithful recreation, the interpretation misses the mark in its climax. The ambiguous ending of the graphic novel, where Batman possibly strangles Joker, is notably softened in the film, potentially reducing the narrative’s impact for a story known for its dark ambiguity.

Though rated R, primarily due to content in the added prologue, the film’s violence is understated compared to modern standards and might have warranted merely a PG-13 without the additional scenes. This decision appears more like a marketing ploy than a narrative necessity. Ultimately, the adaptation's convoluted structure and unsatisfactory resolution make "The Killing Joke" a flawed rendition of an otherwise critically acclaimed story. Despite promising elements, it falls short of its potential, leaving fans yearning for a more coherent and faithful adaptation.

"Batman: The Killing Joke" Blu-ray delivers a mixed experience, oscillating between capturing elements of the renowned graphic novel and falling short in pivotal areas. Fans of DC animation and the original comic will find some redeeming qualities. However, the adaptation struggles to convey the profound darkness and horror integral to Alan Moore's story. The restrictions imposed by Warner's perception of its animated content as tailored for a younger audience result in a lackluster execution that fails to push necessary boundaries.

The animated film's stylistic choices, while emulating Brian Bolland's distinctive art, are a pale reflection of the graphic novel's nuanced visuals. The extra scenes, particularly the controversial prologue, do little to enrich the narrative and instead detract from its original intensity. While the voice acting of veteran talents like Kevin Conroy and Mark Hamill is commendable, it isn't sufficient to make up for the deficiencies in storytelling and direction.

In conclusion, this Blu-ray release of "Batman: The Killing Joke" may appeal to die-hard DC animation aficionados and those seeking completeness in their collection. However, given the subpar adaptation and missed opportunities to capture the essence of the original graphic novel, potential viewers might be better off renting or streaming it before committing to a purchase.