Regarding the Joker's smile, I think I read somewhere that his appearance was inspired by the main character of "The Man Who Laughs" from 1928. The actor's name is Conrad Veidt, and his make-up looks pretty awesome. I just imagine that the creator of Batman watched this movie when he was young, and that the eerie grin made an impression upon him. Although, contrary to the Joker, The Man Who Laughs is very sympathetic, and not a villain at all.
Compared to other actors, I've always felt Jack didn't even have to practice lol. Guy was absolutely born to be the Joker. He's just such a naturally great A-hole 🤣🤣🤣
If you lived through the films as I did, this came before _A Few Good Men_ . When Nicholson is playing the rather sociopathic Colonel Jessup, you can't help but see a little bit of the Joker in him.
Jack Nicholson was perfection as the Joker. I saw this in the theater and when the Batwing flew up and did that stall in front of the moon making the Bat symbol the whole theater erupted in cheers.
it's totally gratuitous and completely 4th-wall fan service since it makes no sense in the flow of that scene..... but no one cares because it's so iconic and awesome
It was filmed on location at Pinewood Studios London England, on a $50 million dollar budget and it made $411 million dollars ($890 million dollars today). It won the Oscar for Best Production Design. When Bob Kane, Batman creator walked onto the set, he broke down crying and said that this is what Gotham City is supposed to look like.
@@OneArmedRetroGamer Without Bill Finger, Bob Kane's Batman would just be a guy in an ugly costume with no secret identity, no cape and cowl, no car, no rogues gallery, no Bat Family, and not even Gotham City.
@@OneArmedRetroGamerMaybe he should have said Co-creator/Artist. Where as Bill is Co-Creator/Main Writer. Which would make sense why the artist is mentioned appreciating the set
About that laughing thing that they found on Jokers body at the end: Its a popular toy from the 80s/90s! its called laughing bag ("Lachsack" in german). Normally you rip a cord or push a button and the thing starts laughing, more modern iterations had a function were the bag would wiggle in addition. In the movie its symbolizing Joker getting the last laugh, even in death.
I remember a book that came out, which diagrammed for all the gear in this movie, and it showed that the Joker's long-barreled pistol didn't shoot bullets, it fired miniature rockets. I guess that explains its effectiveness against the Batwing a little better, but it's far from obvious in the movie. This movie was an absolute phenomenon, even before opening night. You couldn't turn your head in any direction, in 1989, without seeing a Batman logo; it was absolutely everywhere and on everything, from cereal and clothing, to pencil cases and toys.... even shaved onto the back of people's heads. The scene where he's swinging from the gravity boots gets either laughs or confused looks from people, but to me it makes total sense: Of course it's a nudge and a wink at the bat-like imagery but, if you got knocked around as much as Batman does, it might do you some good to relieve some of the pressure on your spine.
Jack Nicholsons version of the Joker is a great representation of what the comics intended i think. One of the greatest actors to ever do it. Top 3 actors for me.
@@fynnthefox9078 I'm not so sure about simping, even though he seemed to take a keen interest in VV. I mean he did try to shoot acid straight onto her face at the museum 🤷🏻♂️
@@patron40silver Yeah, this. NIcholson's Joker is closer to Caesar Romero than even Golden Age Joker. I guess he's closest to late 70s Joker, but really he's TV show Joker but scarier.
I’m nearing 40 and I can still vividly remember the summer this movie came out. 1989 is one of the best summer movie years and you still couldn’t escape “Bat-mania” that year. It was everywhere.
This movie was huge in 1989. It was the first movie that presented Batman as more dark/intense like in the comics.. it was a welcome change from the tv show from the 60s that was more slapstick.
The 60s show was basically a parody. Accurate to the comics of the time (which had also become a parody), but not what most comic fans have in mind when they think of Batman. I still love the Adam West show and the movie, but it also made it difficult for the general public to take the character seriously.
@@Rocket1377 "Accurate to the comics of the time (which had also become a parody)..." This. Which is why claiming things are or aren't more "like in the comics" is a bit silly IMO - the comics have been _many_ different things over their 80+ year continuity. There IS no _single_ definitive Batman (or Bruce Wayne or Joker) "in the comics". (not an attack on the OP BTW, it's just a pet peeve of mine :)
I know Batdance was quite cheesy back in the day, and honestly, I hated it back then. But I've re-listened to it for the first time in 20-30 years kinda recently (when Prince died), and to my surprise, it's actually quite a good musical composition. I'd say one of Prince's best, really.
Absolutely agree with the batmobile in The Batman. I'm also not exactly a car guy but I can appreciate a badass car like that. Muscle cars are the shit. Put a jet engine on the back and it's even better.
I remember how fans were so upset at his casting (thinking ‘Beetlejuice’) when first announced, just like when Daniel Craig was first announced as the next Bond, but time proved both groups of fans wrong.
@@stingray65b nope, with Craig i was right. He is the worst Bond and his movies are the worst. Best modern Bond was Pierce Brosnan, best overall is Sean Connery.
@@Čangrizavi_Cinik To each his own. How many Bond film rankings have we seen on YT? There are a bunch and they're typically quite varied. Franchise film preferences are always highly personal and often reflect who/what was the focus when the viewer first became aware of the series. Keaton silenced the naysayers who thought he couldn't be a serious guy to wear the suit, but he also didn't bring any special meat to the role not because he isn't a great actor (lots of other examples prove he is), but because the screenplay and Burton chose to make the Batman/Bruce Wayne character take a back seat to the villains. Both films could have been called "Villains in Batman's World Parts I & II". But at that time, the cinematic portrayal of the character in the vein of Miller's 'Dark Knight Returns' was new and much different than what we'd seen before and thus a lot of folks (myself included) have fond feelings for it nonetheless. We can appreciate it while absolutely admiring Nolan's take, too. As for Bond, I grew up with Connery and John Barry so that will always be my favorite era, but I like when artists take chances. So, along with a lot of other folks, I appreciated EON's efforts to ground Bond, temper the more comic book aspects, and try to not go beat-for-beat with the formula. Craig portrayed less the gentlemanly character and more the "blunt instrument." I liked the fact that Bond was more physical/brutal. As I recall, Connery even commented on how much he admired Craig's efforts to add more 'threat' to the portrayal (paraphrasing--there's an interview clip floating around somewhere--he also noted that Moore played a parody of the character). Yes, the Craig films were very uneven because too often too many 'cooks' get involved, but I thought Casino Royale excellently captured the structure and tone of the series while modernizing it and finally gave us a great origin after the book had been wasted in 1966. One could see right from the start Skyfall didn't have the typical rhythm Bond film, but gave us a beautifully textured film that, in my opinion, went just enough into Bond's past to add depth without going too far, which was a welcome addition. I tend to look at a lot of things (performance, cinematography, pacing, art direction, score, etc.) so my opinion is often based on a combination of factors. There's a lot of unevenness throughout the series. Diamonds are Forever was a fun romp (and had my favorite Bassey theme), but was a sloppy movie. Die Another Day took the props and art direction to absurdity, but was fun distraction. The Bond series was a big part of my childhood and carried into my adulthood. I tend not to judge in broad strokes. Even the weaker films under each actor have good stuff so I definitely would never refer to anything/anyone as the 'worst' (maybe 1966's Casino Royale, but that's not canon 🙂). Cheers!
Batman: dark, brooding, more adult, hints of slapstick. A ton of fun. Batman Returns: Really dark, really violent, and overtly sexual. Even more fun. Can't wait for that reaction.
Everyone forgets that in 1989 this movie was a dark gothic re-boot of Batman, one so successful that it's how Hollywood still treats Batman today 40 years later. In the comic books, Batman started off in the 1930's a mainly a detective who used his wealth to apply science to follow clues and solve crimes rather than using his fists; in fact his early comic series was titled "Detective Comics, starring Batman." This reflected the times, in which science was just starting to be used by real police to solve crimes. Later, after WW2, he was joined by sidekicks Robin and Batgirl, and he became more of a superhero fighting criminals, but he was cheerful and lived by a code of honor in which he arrested criminals for the police and never committed violence unless necessary, which reflected the post-WW2 vision of America as noble and principled and wars were won by teamwork and democracy rather than individuals. By the 1960s Batman got his own TV series starring Adam West, and devolved into goofy camp; Batman literally cracked jokes as he caught the bad guys. This was the Batman that existed in the 1970s; a joking good guy who never injured or killed anyone. In the 1980s, a comic book mini-series came out re-imagining Batman as a dark brooding solitary loner, and in one shocking issue, Batman kills a mass murderer (he seals him in a sewer and walks away). This series was legendary and was called "The Dark Knight," the first time that name was used for Batman. Tim Burton's 1989 movie followed this Dark Knight formula, and it was a surprise to audiences as well as a huge hit, and was so successful that, to this day, everyone has forgotten the early iterations of Batman and we all think of him as "The Dark Knight" as if he's always been that way.
Michael will always be my Batman. Close to the mild-mannered Bruce Wayne of the comics and TV series. I loved this movie when it came out. Love the channel ✌️💜
Same. Also Jack will always be my Joker. I did not care for the later Joker renditions in any of the newer films. Especially Ledger, he was horrible, may he rest in peace.
For _every_ screen Batman (and Joker for that matter) you can point to a story, era or specific author's run in the comics that's a pretty close correspondence/inspiration. People who talk about what he's like in the comics seem to be under the impression that the characterisation of Bruce Wayne and Batman has always been the same over the 80+ years of the character's existence. Needless to say, this is simply untrue.
The last two minutes-- everything from "HE GAVE US A SIGNAL!"-- is probably my fave superhero ending ever. That insane operatic musical finale gives me chills still after dozens of viewings.
Interesting how they changed a little bit of the original origin story of batmans parents death and made it Joker. In the comics it was a low level thief named Joe Chill, which in the Nolan version, they brought that detail back.
Burton's Batman films still has best atmosphere there is. Music, gothic-horror style, color palette added with Danny Elfman's intense theme. Never fails to give me goosebumps
Well my favorite ending is in Mask Of The Phantasm where the batsignal started to hit the sky, and Batman (Kevin Conroy) looked up, and used his grappling hook, and cut to black with music start playing.
same. the movie theater atmosphere was like a rock concert. sold out theater. about 30 people camped out over night. someone brought a few beach balls and they were hitting them around the auditorium. some guy stood up and proposed to his girlfriend in front of everyone, when she said yes the theater went crazy. the movie started and the crowd was just amped and fully into it. the best movie going experience ever. and i was 9 at the time. just amazing
6:13 Mark! By the way! Actress Kim Bassinger was going back and forth between working in this movie and working in "My Stepmother is an Alien" in which she is the titular character! 😊
6:13 Actress! A different actress, of course, played her in the 1930s - 1940s! She was to Batman as Lois Lane is to Superman. Superman had an "LL" motif, and Batman had a "VV" motif. Then, at some point, "Selina Kyle/Catwoman" takes over! 😮 In the comics, that is! They have a daughter who grew up to become the original version of "The Huntress"! 😊
This is still my favorite Batman movie. It often is overlooked because it isn’t as refined as the next film. But this was the most comic accurate Joker. This film also is responsible for giving us the animated series which is the best representation of Batman EVER.
Unfortunately it wasn’t quite accurate in terms of Batman, I mean the way he just outright kills people isn’t very Batman like (Yes I know in the early comics he would do that but his no killing rule became such a big part of his character and what makes him so interesting) But I’d say for the film it does still work
@@XghostXfaceX2He's just giving his opinion as he didn't infer anything against what u said. People need to actually understand what they read & not just attack someone but guess social media just isn't the place for that...
@@TonyTheLoneRiderSmith Then he can do it as his own stand alone comment. But he put as a response to my comment. So the implication is he is responding to me and his response implies I asserted that Batman is comic accurate in this film. Which isn’t what I said at all. That’s why I am not sure he read my comment or he is slow in the head. How isn’t that obvious to you? Like why is your response to defend this?
"Is that Alfred?" For many of us Michael Gogh was THE Alfred. RIP He connects the Burtons with the Schumachers and is Alfred in more Batman movies (4) than any other actor.
Was also born in 85…so I loved Batman returns and just liked the 89 film. Keaton was an excellent Batman. But for me I’m all about the Nolan Batman trilogy. Each different films in their own right that can be appreciated for how well they were done.
Nicholson made a boatload of money from this. He took roughly half his usual salary of $10M but got in on the rights to the sequels he wasn't even in and a percentage of the merchandising, which was HUGE back then. Ended up making anywhere from $75 to $125 MIllion.
I was going to say the same thing. Not only is Jack a brilliant actor, he's a brilliant businessman. He made bank from his deal on this movie. And as far as Batman goes, Michael Keaton is Batman. No one else can compare.
@@abramsullivan7764 I have mad respect for voice actors. They are fantastic at what they do. I was talking about live action. Out of all of the actors who have played a live action Batman, Michael Keaton is the man!
This was not the first official Batman film but this is the film that helped set up the rest to follow afterwards many years later in some form or another. In a way, this was ahead of its time. While this is indeed still a very serious film, its also not afraid to add some humor and light-hearted moments. It was a nice balance of different genres. It had all of what you could want and a bit more. It knows when to add in some suspense and knows when to add in some goofs. Some crazy WTF and wild moments too. Plus, the musical score by Danny Elfman still holds up very well after all of these years. Creating a very gothic and bombastic soundscape. The music also helped to inspire the animated series as well after the movie a few years later. The icing on the cake was having Prince himself do the music for the soundtrack on top of it. Giving them really catchy tones! I haven't heard it in so long in full though. Great movie man and I enjoy people's reactions.
My fav Batman movie. Its a perfect blend of the comics and the old TV series. Its just tons of fun and not trying too hard to be all dark like the new Batman movies.
I don’t think the Nolan films were trying to be intentionally dark for the purpose of being dark at all..that was just the tone set from the beginning…but let’s be real, Batman returns (the best of Burton and Keaton Batman’s) is unbelievably dark as well. Batman films should be dark based on the source material.
7:10 Mark! Jerry Hall was a supermodel, and her lover was Mick Jagger! 😎 Imagine being on a set with so many named "Jack"! 😂 Two actors at least and one of them are playing a fictional "Jack"! 😅
The “laughter in a bag” (can’t recall the exact name) was a standard novelty gag years back, so right in the same vein as the chattering teeth. This first cinema outing of the Batsuit was made of heavy material which Keaton sweated in and because of its design prevented head movement. Interestingly, I saw in a behind-the-scenes clip that in the recent Flash film where they brought Kenton’s Batman back (didn’t see the movie) the costume designer initially offered him a new suit with more freedom of movement but he requested the older design as it was consistent with his embodiment of the character.
Maybe im biased since i was a kid when this cameout , but this is the best BATMAN movie!! Jacks the man as Joker!! And Michael Keaton!! " I AM BATMAN" !!!
The sequel Batman Returns is even better imo it leans more into Tim Burton eccentricities and features a truly iconic performance by Michelle Pfeiffer as Catwoman
man that year was one of the best in cinematic history! indiana jones, ghostbusters (2), little mermaid, honey i shrunk the kids, lethal weapon (2), ROADHOUSE! you get it, it rocked. i was way too young to appreciate it at the time but i had all these movies in my vhs collection growing up ;)
@@fumblingtitan14111989 really was the best year for films, like EVER. TRUE BELIEVERS, OUT COLD, SKIN DEEP, CHANCES ARE, 976-EVIL, PHYSICAL EVIDENCE, DEAD BANG, LOST ANGELS, MIKE HAMMER: MURDER TAKES ALL, not to mention THE FLY II, POLICE ACADEMY 6, and AMERICAN NINJA 3: BLOOD HUNT! Literally the best year ever in movies.
Danny Elfman composed the opening credits theme, but Shirley Walker, Danny's chief conductor, composed the music for the show. One of the most wonderful things about Batman: TAS, Fox gave the creators a full orchestra to make music for each episode.
Shirley Walker composed all the music for the show. Danny Elfman gets credit for creating the theme, but the arrangement used for the show was done by Walker, and is not exactly the same as the movie theme.
@@Rocket1377 The theme sounds similar due to being bombastically dark and dramatic, but it's clearly a different theme if you listen to the both of them.
Fun Fact: The interior set of Axis Chemicals was shot at Acton Lane Power Station which was disused at the time and was also used previously for interior set of the atmosphere processing station in Aliens.
24:51 Mark! In the canon of the former "ABC" sitcom "The Drew Carry Show" his character won one of those "Batmobile" cars, while in reality, someone else won the sweepstakes in which it was a prize! 😂😅
Michael Keaton was and still is my favorite Batman. I hope you review more Keaton films, I know you two seen Beetlejuice and Jackie Brown. His first movie Nightshift is hilarious, Mr Mom is as well. Clean and Sober was his best acting performance and Pacific Heights is excellent also.
Fun Fact: Anton Furst designed this Gotham to be super depressing. He killed himself within a year after. This Batman is more disturbed. Less of an action hero and more like the old Universal Monsters. A tortured psychopath BUT he is a psycho on our side. P.S. Tim Burton's favorite scene is when Joker talks to the corpse
Batman returns for Christmas! Also I was nine when this came out and this was my childhood. You have no idea how it was to see Batman like this as a kid. Jack is amazing and you can see why so many actors love playing the joker.
I had a blast watching this with you guys. I remember watching this as a kid. Kim Bassinger is such a fantastic emotional star,I loved that scene on the stairs and that iconic scene of going to the Batcave. Very very good video guys. In that time period of time having "Prince music playing and Joker dancing was so awesome. 🌟✨️Happy Holidays✨️🌟
Surprised that neither of Y'all had ever seen this one before, but "Better Late than Never!"👍 If Y'all have time to squeeze it in, "Batman Returns" ('92) would be Perfect for a Christmas Reaction! 😉✌ Fun-Fact: the Design of this Batsuit ended up being so "tight" that Keaton literally couldn't turn his head, nor could he even hear anything while wearing it👈so he learned how to read-lips.
Batman (1989) will always hold a place in my heart. It was my first Theatrical experience seeing this as a 4 year old in Edinburgh, Scotland. It blew my little mind 🤯
Great reaction guys. I love this movie so much, Michael Keaton will always be my favorite batman and Bruce Wayne and Jack Nicholson gives an iconic performance as the joker.
This film was ENORMOUS!!! It's difficult to explain the hype around it. People went repeatedly to see it in the cinema and everybody was talking about it and buying any kind of Batman merchandise they could get their hands on. It was mental. I'm so excited for you to watch Batman Returns. It's incredible. Meow!
Fun Fact: Axis Chemicals was filmed at the disused Acton Power Station known as West London. The power station had previously been used for the Atmosphere Processing Station in Aliens. When the Batman crew arrived, they found the Alien hive set still in situ. Bob Ringwood was responsible for the Batman costume; & to this day Keaton still has back problems due to the weight of the rubber cape. When designing the look of Gotham, Burton wanted it to look like ‘hell had vomited up a city’. Alfred Pennyworth was played by Michael Gough. Gough starred in mutliple Hammer Horror films & his casting was due to Burtons love of those films. Gough & Burton would reunite on Batman Returns & later Sleepy Hollow. Burton used Alan Moore’s graphic novel ‘The Killing Joke’ as the basis for the creation of the Joker. Todd Philips would also use ‘The Killing Joke’ as the basis for Arthur Flecks transformation in to Joker in the film of the same name.
Definitely my favorite superhero movie ever!!! Keaton & Nicholson are EASILYYYY my favorite portrayals of Batman and Joker! Burton was the perfect director for this movie & Danny Elfman produced THE most iconic Batman theme which is stilled used today!!! One of my favorite movies of all time!!! 😎
It was funny that Schmitt didn't get the laugh box at the end scene and the subtle take that it was kinda saying Joker even in death got the last laugh.
I remember going to see this film in theaters and all the fervor around it. You HAD to have a ticket. People wanted to see what Tim Burton would do with a big budget studio project like Batman. There was definitely some concern from fans about Michael Keaton as a choice for the role because he was known for his comedy background...but he won over the audience. To this day, people love his portrayal. This film has a ton of actors in it. Of course Jack Nicholson who's always brilliant. Kim Basinger, Billy Dee Williams..and Jack Palance. As well as a host of character actors like Robert Wuhl, Pat Hingle and Michael Gough, who you'll recognize from other Tim Burton projects. As good as this film is, Batman Returns is even better, IMO. Stylistically it's more Tim Burton. The studio put some limitations on what he did with this first one. But he proved himself and came back to do the 2nd movie...and the studios really let him put his own stamp on the look/feel of that film. Great reaction...hope you give the 2nd one a chance as well.
The whole static helmet for Batman lends itself to one of my favorite scenes in the Bale/Freeman series where Bale asks Freeman for a suit that he can turn his head in. Most people didn't catch that the whole scene is a nod to the 1989 "original" Batman movie and I loved that bit
Eh, I wouldn't say "most people". I think there are more people than not who understood that to be a reference to not only '89 Batman, but every Batman SINCE then, as none of them were able to turn their heads. Even Begins had that issue, and it was definitely noticed by even younger viewers for how odd it looked.
@@Fyrecide out of the people I've talked to about the movie, only one mentioned the callback. I've seen 5 reactions to this movie and none of them mentioned the callback. You are welcome to have your own opinion, though. Even if it's obviously wrong.
@@jhiieri7812 they aren't wrong though. Many of us have been here and about died laughing at that part. Newer viewers may miss it but it was one of the biggest gags in that trilogy for most life long fans. Milage may vary.
@@Lordalexzader that was my point exactly... I was giving kudos that they caught those awful head turns! If there were memes back then, you know they'd have had a field day with those awkward turns.
This was amazing to experience in a theater. I was only 6 but I remember it like it was yesterday. It was my second movie theater experience and I'll never forget it. This movie is a huge part of my childhood. That summer, the bat symbol was everywhere. You couldn't escape it. Nicholson was perfect as The Joker and Keaton will always be BATMAN to me. This did win an Oscar for it's art direction.
Something interesting...The Vicky Vale photo from Corto Maltese, it's the base of operation for Bane in the Batman universe, where he produce his venom !
Top notch reaction as always! This movie was HUGE on release. Nicholson negotiated to earn 2% of "back end" salary based on the film's profit. He hauled in a reported 11m just from that (not counting his normal fee).
One of the greatest movie theater experiences when i was a kid. This movie was HUGE once released. My favorite Batman movie. Jack Nicholson was incredible. Batman Returns is a great sequel. Tim Burton's vision was beautiful.
This movie was a huge part of my childhood lol. I watched it so many times. I still place this as the best batman movie made. Keaton did a hell of a job and so did Jack. Hope you check out Batman Returns next and see another iconic performance by Danny Devito.
Now that you have watched the Keaton Batman i higly suggest you to watch *Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)* also with Michael Keaton!! A great satire in which Keaton persiflage his famous role/life. Synopsis: "A washed-up superhero actor attempts to revive his fading career by writing, directing, and starring in a Broadway production". It won 4 Oscars and was nominated for 9. A must see!
I saw this in the theater the night of its release . I’ve never seen another. No need .. Michael Keaton is the only Batman I’ll ever need . Jack is the one and only Joker ! Nobody compares !! So glad you finally saw the Best!🌠‼️
Graat reaction you two....This movie was a mega blockbuster back in 1989. Definitely check out the sequel Batman Returns (also directed by Tim Burton and Michal Keaton back as Batman)....and since it is set around Christmas, it's great for this time of year 🎄 If you're looking for an even eariler Batman movie, then feel free to check out Batman: The Movie (1966) with Adam West as Bruce Wayne/Batman, Burt Ward as Dick Grayson/Robin and features Cesar Romero as The Joker, Frank Gorshin as The Riddler, Burgess Meredith (Micky from the Rocky films) as The Penguin and Lee Merrywather as Catwoman.... originally this was supposed to be a pilot movie for the '66 TV series but ended up getting pushed back due to rushing the show into production to fill the network timeslot, so the movie ended up being released in between season 1 and season 2 of the TV series and at the hight of Batmainia in the 60s. And because it was broadcast in full color at the time (when most households still had cheaper B&W TV sets) and the costumes, props, sets, etc were so colorful, that also drove families to go purchase newer color sets just to watch Batman (later other popular shows like Star Trek, Mission Impossible, The Man From U.N.C.L.E., etc). Yes, the show, and the movie, was done in a campy, tongue-in-cheek, with innuendos, bad puns & dad jokes style (which also was the style of the comics of that time period - so the show & movie were both satiring and emulating the comics of the 60s). There is a charm to this very silly but still respectful rendition of Batman & Robin that is worth a watch, if only for a curiosity...What I tell people is - if you like Mel Brooks movies, well this is like if Mel Brooks made a Batman movie, it would be Batman: The Movie (1966). 🦇
'wouldn't hit a guy with glasses would ya?' 🤣 And yes, Jack Nicholson had a lot of fun with this character if you go by some of the interviews later on.
I'm really glad you guys are reacting to Batman (89). It's my favorite movie of all time. Michael Keaton is my favorite Batman and Danny Elfman's music is very iconic.
Fun Fact ALIENS connection: Axis Chemicals and the Aliens hive was filmed in the same place and old decommissioned power plant. When the Batman crew first arrived they found a lot of the aliens props including the eggs still there. If you look at both, you can notice some things are the same ..I e the railing.
4:42 Mark! Aha! A Black "Harvey Dent" when played by Billy Dee Williams! But he becomes a Caucasian guy again, just in time for Tommy Lee Jones to play him as "Two-Face"! (Drew Barrymore & Debi Mazar as "Sugar & Spice" respectively! His lovers!) Oh, and by the way! Val Kilmer & George Clooney are both meant to be playing the same version of "Batman" as Michael Keaton. It was simply recasting to continue the movie franchise, not "rebooting"! Like how Brandon Routh replaced the late Christopher Reeves in "Superman Returns" where everyone but Marlon Brando was recast! Even a different city played "Metropolis"! But the recent movie "The Flash" changed it! If I explained how you might call it "spoilers"! 😮
It may seem silly and unpracticle having the bat suit not able to turn its head, but I feel this actually added to the dramatic, somewhat inhuman, gesturing of Batman with the quick turns of his entire body. This particular way of moving became pretty damn iconic and it helped make you forget that it's just a guy in that suit. I remember when the first Christopher Nolan Batman came out, I was so weirded out by the head turning - THAT felt unnatural for the character. It's pretty funny when you think about it.
I graduated high school in 89' and was/am a devoted Prince fan. Me and my friend group saw this film in theater maybe 6 times. This film was a perfect mix of the Adam West camp, and a new generation of, at the time, modern films. It's a jewel. Batman Returns is a fantastic sequel! Please react to it! Love you guys! Keep up the excellent work!
A lot of actors were considered for the role of BATMAN: Pierce Brosnan, Kiefer Sutherland, Bruce Willis, Mel Gibson, Sylvester Stallone, Bill Murray, Harrison Ford, Steven Seagal, Kurt Russell, Al Pacino, Patrick Swayze, Tom Cruise, Kevin Spacey, Alec Baldwin, Kevin Costner, Richard Gere, Michael Biehn, Ray Liotta, Tom Hanks, John Travolta, Sean Penn, Emilio Estevez, Matthew Broderick, Kevin Kline, William Hurt, Mickey Rourke, Charlie Sheen, Dennis Quaid, Jeff Bridges, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Tom Selleck, Kyle MacLachan, Chevy Chase, Jean Claude Van Damme, Michael Douglas and Robert Downey Jr. A lot of actors were considered for The Joker: Tim Curry, David Bowie, Jeff Goldblum, Willem Dafoe, Dennis Hopper, James Woods Donald Sutherland, John Lithgow, Brad Dourif, Robert Englund, Robert DeNiro, Alan Rickman, John Malkovich, Ray Liotta, And Robin Williams. Some actors were considered for Harvey Dent: Don Johnson, William Peterson, Dale Midkiff, and Ray Liotta. A lot of actresses were considered for Vicki Vale: Sean Young, Michelle Pfeiffer, Geena Davis, Brooke Shields, Daryl Hannah, Linda Hamilton, Debra Winger, Demi Moore, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Carrie Fisher, Ally Sheedy, Meg Ryan and Sigourney Weaver. A lot of directors were considered for making BATMAN 89: Steven Spielberg, Joe Dante, Richard Donner, Alex Cox, David Cronenberg, Guy Hamilton, Ivan Reitman, Wes Craven, John Carpenter, Tobe Hooper, Tony Scott, John McTiernan, Terry Gilliam, Walter Hill, Brian DePalma, Ridley Scott, James Cameron, Martin Scorsese, David Lynch and Robert Zemekis.
Its been at least 30 years since i saw this. Already forgot that Jack Palance (Guy who set up Nicholson) was even in this. I highly recommend him and Billy Crystal in City Slickers.
Keaton IS Batman. He sets the standard. People hated George Clooney as Batman, including Clooney himself, but honestly I thought he did a decent job with it. Particularly his relationship with Alfred.
@@davidmcleod5133 Yeah, I think that was the problem - if it had been a standalone film (or even a 2 film series with Batman Forever) it might have pulled it off as a campy take, but as it was the same continuity as the first two films it just felt really weird with the difference in tone.
These Batmans pre Nolan/Bale where still very influenced by the 60s TV show, that's why they're more goofy. And also, Keaton's Batman starts killing or being more violent after he finds out the Joker had killed his parents. Watch Batman Returns, just in time for Xmas!!!
Everyone forgets that in 1989 this movie was a dark gothic re-boot of Batman, one so successful that it's how Hollywood still treats Batman today 40 years later. In the comic books, Batman started off in the 1930's a mainly a detective who used his wealth to apply science to follow clues and solve crimes rather than using his fists; in fact his early comic series was titled "Detective Comics, starring Batman." This reflected the times, in which science was just starting to be used by real police to solve crimes. Later, after WW2, he was joined by sidekicks Robin and Batgirl, and he became more of a superhero fighting criminals, but he was cheerful and lived by a code of honor in which he arrested criminals for the police and never committed violence unless necessary, which reflected the post-WW2 vision of America as noble and principled and wars were won by teamwork and democracy rather than individuals. By the 1960s Batman got his own TV series starring Adam West, and devolved into goofy camp; Batman literally cracked jokes as he caught the bad guys. This was the Batman that existed in the 1970s; a joking good guy who never injured or killed anyone. In the 1980s, a comic book mini-series came out re-imagining Batman as a dark brooding solitary loner, and in one shocking issue, Batman kills a mass murderer (he seals him in a sewer and walks away). This series was legendary and was called "The Dark Knight," the first time that name was used for Batman. Tim Burton's 1989 movie followed this Dark Knight formula, and it was a surprise to audiences as well as a huge hit, and was so successful that, to this day, everyone has forgotten the early iterations of Batman and we all think of him as "The Dark Knight" as if he's always been that way.
![[RE-UPLOAD] Batman Returns (1992) First Time Watching! Movie Reaction!](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/zZayWBsmX0Y/mqdefault.jpg)
![[RE-UPLOAD] Batman Returns (1992) First Time Watching! Movie Reaction!](/img/tr.png)
![[#2024MAMA] G-DRAGON - 무제(Untitled, 2014)+POWER+HOME SWEET HOME+뱅뱅뱅+FANTASTIC BABY | Mnet 241123 방송](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Ox29z5Nf1Uk/mqdefault.jpg)
Not just a Jack Nicholson dance routine; a Jack Nicholson dance routine set to a Prince song. This movie is gold.
Prince didn't need to go so hard for this movie 😂
Yeah, they didn't recognize the first Prince song.
The Batdance is still a great music video, haha.
I found the music was sub-par for Prince.
The whole soundtrack is Prince.
For me, the best Joker ever portrayed. The scene where he talks to dead Rotelli after frying him, and the laugh is the real Joker for me.
Just for the record, NO this is not the first Batman Movie. That was "Batman: The Movie" starring Adam West & Burt Ward 1966
Regarding the Joker's smile, I think I read somewhere that his appearance was inspired by the main character of "The Man Who Laughs" from 1928. The actor's name is Conrad Veidt, and his make-up looks pretty awesome. I just imagine that the creator of Batman watched this movie when he was young, and that the eerie grin made an impression upon him. Although, contrary to the Joker, The Man Who Laughs is very sympathetic, and not a villain at all.
Compared to other actors, I've always felt Jack didn't even have to practice lol. Guy was absolutely born to be the Joker. He's just such a naturally great A-hole 🤣🤣🤣
Love that Joker!
If you lived through the films as I did, this came before _A Few Good Men_ . When Nicholson is playing the rather sociopathic Colonel Jessup, you can't help but see a little bit of the Joker in him.
@@SYLTalesAbsolutely!!! There's at least 1 to 10 "Joker" moments in every movie he makes. It's just Jack being Jack😂😂😂
When you watch him play Joker, you just know he was pulling from one flew over the Coco's nest.
I also think him loving the comic books when HE was a kid and having that as his favorite character really helped his enthusiasm for the role.
Jack Nicholson was perfection as the Joker. I saw this in the theater and when the Batwing flew up and did that stall in front of the moon making the Bat symbol the whole theater erupted in cheers.
it's totally gratuitous and completely 4th-wall fan service since it makes no sense in the flow of that scene..... but no one cares because it's so iconic and awesome
It was filmed on location at Pinewood Studios London England, on a $50 million dollar budget and it made $411 million dollars ($890 million dollars today).
It won the Oscar for Best Production Design.
When Bob Kane, Batman creator walked onto the set, he broke down crying and said that this is what Gotham City is supposed to look like.
I wonder what Bill Finger thought lol considering he's really the one who created Batman
@@OneArmedRetroGamer"Uh oh. I smell a nerd fight!!"
- my smart-ass daughter😂😂😂
@@OneArmedRetroGamer Without Bill Finger, Bob Kane's Batman would just be a guy in an ugly costume with no secret identity, no cape and cowl, no car, no rogues gallery, no Bat Family, and not even Gotham City.
@@OneArmedRetroGamerMaybe he should have said Co-creator/Artist. Where as Bill is Co-Creator/Main Writer. Which would make sense why the artist is mentioned appreciating the set
@@Ghost112387 it's not his fault. A lot of people don't know. Even the movie only acknowledges Kane
About that laughing thing that they found on Jokers body at the end:
Its a popular toy from the 80s/90s! its called laughing bag ("Lachsack" in german). Normally you rip a cord or push a button and the thing starts laughing, more modern iterations had a function were the bag would wiggle in addition.
In the movie its symbolizing Joker getting the last laugh, even in death.
You guys MUST watch Batman Returns!! It has the best version of Catwoman and of course Penguin in it 🦇🐈⬛🐧
Plus, it’s a Christmas movie!
Agree! Michelle Pfeiffer still the best catwomen.
Plus it was all Tim Burton. He had full control.
Same it one of the best Batman movies
@@francisalbert1799 Which is why it's bizarre and entertaining at the same time.
I remember a book that came out, which diagrammed for all the gear in this movie, and it showed that the Joker's long-barreled pistol didn't shoot bullets, it fired miniature rockets.
I guess that explains its effectiveness against the Batwing a little better, but it's far from obvious in the movie.
This movie was an absolute phenomenon, even before opening night. You couldn't turn your head in any direction, in 1989, without seeing a Batman logo; it was absolutely everywhere and on everything, from cereal and clothing, to pencil cases and toys.... even shaved onto the back of people's heads.
The scene where he's swinging from the gravity boots gets either laughs or confused looks from people, but to me it makes total sense: Of course it's a nudge and a wink at the bat-like imagery but, if you got knocked around as much as Batman does, it might do you some good to relieve some of the pressure on your spine.
Jack Nicholsons version of the Joker is a great representation of what the comics intended i think. One of the greatest actors to ever do it. Top 3 actors for me.
Jack's a great version of the Golden Age version of The Joker, who was an old school gangster and not really an agent of chaos yet.
Aside from the simping and origin, this is the most comic book accurate Joker in live-action.
@@fynnthefox9078
I'm not so sure about simping, even though he seemed to take a keen interest in VV.
I mean he did try to shoot acid straight onto her face at the museum 🤷🏻♂️
@@lapislazuli5035
But he was an agent of chaos, chaos just wasn't his "mission". His mission was whatever he wanted, 🤷🏻♂️
@@patron40silver Yeah, this. NIcholson's Joker is closer to Caesar Romero than even Golden Age Joker. I guess he's closest to late 70s Joker, but really he's TV show Joker but scarier.
I’m nearing 40 and I can still vividly remember the summer this movie came out. 1989 is one of the best summer movie years and you still couldn’t escape “Bat-mania” that year. It was everywhere.
I remember all the Batman t-shirts around then and how they were so popular.
I bought tee shirts and motion picture magazines.
This movie was huge in 1989. It was the first movie that presented Batman as more dark/intense like in the comics.. it was a welcome change from the tv show from the 60s that was more slapstick.
Exactly
The 60s show was basically a parody. Accurate to the comics of the time (which had also become a parody), but not what most comic fans have in mind when they think of Batman. I still love the Adam West show and the movie, but it also made it difficult for the general public to take the character seriously.
@@Rocket1377 "Accurate to the comics of the time (which had also become a parody)..."
This. Which is why claiming things are or aren't more "like in the comics" is a bit silly IMO - the comics have been _many_ different things over their 80+ year continuity. There IS no _single_ definitive Batman (or Bruce Wayne or Joker) "in the comics".
(not an attack on the OP BTW, it's just a pet peeve of mine :)
Not just Batman, this movie changed comic book movies the same way Star Wars changed science fiction adventures.
@@anonymes2884
Just remember: Even “Peanuts” had overhauls and retcons, and Charles Schulz was the most creative-control creator who ever controlled.
Screen time data:
- Jack Nicholson - 39m40s (31.44%)
- Kim Basinger - 36m26s (28.88%)
- Michael Keaton - 34m50s (27.61%)
I have to admit, Prince's soundtrack to Batman is banger after banger. Even the slower tunes are fantastic.
And yes, I'm including Batdance.
"Batdance" was everywhere that summer. My local radio station played it at least once an hour.
I know Batdance was quite cheesy back in the day, and honestly, I hated it back then. But I've re-listened to it for the first time in 20-30 years kinda recently (when Prince died), and to my surprise, it's actually quite a good musical composition. I'd say one of Prince's best, really.
Absolutely agree with the batmobile in The Batman. I'm also not exactly a car guy but I can appreciate a badass car like that. Muscle cars are the shit. Put a jet engine on the back and it's even better.
Michael Keaton surprised me with his portrayal of Batman. So much so that I think he is my favorite Batman.
I remember how fans were so upset at his casting (thinking ‘Beetlejuice’) when first announced, just like when Daniel Craig was first announced as the next Bond, but time proved both groups of fans wrong.
@@stingray65b nope, with Craig i was right. He is the worst Bond and his movies are the worst. Best modern Bond was Pierce Brosnan, best overall is Sean Connery.
@@Čangrizavi_Cinik To each his own. How many Bond film rankings have we seen on YT? There are a bunch and they're typically quite varied. Franchise film preferences are always highly personal and often reflect who/what was the focus when the viewer first became aware of the series. Keaton silenced the naysayers who thought he couldn't be a serious guy to wear the suit, but he also didn't bring any special meat to the role not because he isn't a great actor (lots of other examples prove he is), but because the screenplay and Burton chose to make the Batman/Bruce Wayne character take a back seat to the villains. Both films could have been called "Villains in Batman's World Parts I & II". But at that time, the cinematic portrayal of the character in the vein of Miller's 'Dark Knight Returns' was new and much different than what we'd seen before and thus a lot of folks (myself included) have fond feelings for it nonetheless. We can appreciate it while absolutely admiring Nolan's take, too. As for Bond, I grew up with Connery and John Barry so that will always be my favorite era, but I like when artists take chances. So, along with a lot of other folks, I appreciated EON's efforts to ground Bond, temper the more comic book aspects, and try to not go beat-for-beat with the formula. Craig portrayed less the gentlemanly character and more the "blunt instrument." I liked the fact that Bond was more physical/brutal. As I recall, Connery even commented on how much he admired Craig's efforts to add more 'threat' to the portrayal (paraphrasing--there's an interview clip floating around somewhere--he also noted that Moore played a parody of the character). Yes, the Craig films were very uneven because too often too many 'cooks' get involved, but I thought Casino Royale excellently captured the structure and tone of the series while modernizing it and finally gave us a great origin after the book had been wasted in 1966. One could see right from the start Skyfall didn't have the typical rhythm Bond film, but gave us a beautifully textured film that, in my opinion, went just enough into Bond's past to add depth without going too far, which was a welcome addition. I tend to look at a lot of things (performance, cinematography, pacing, art direction, score, etc.) so my opinion is often based on a combination of factors. There's a lot of unevenness throughout the series. Diamonds are Forever was a fun romp (and had my favorite Bassey theme), but was a sloppy movie. Die Another Day took the props and art direction to absurdity, but was fun distraction. The Bond series was a big part of my childhood and carried into my adulthood. I tend not to judge in broad strokes. Even the weaker films under each actor have good stuff so I definitely would never refer to anything/anyone as the 'worst' (maybe 1966's Casino Royale, but that's not canon 🙂). Cheers!
Sorry, but Michael Keaton was and is still miscast. He was too old, too short, too skinny and always overshadowed by the villains.
Agreed. Michael Keaton has always been my favorite Batman. Same goes for Jack Nicholson as my favorite Joker
Batman: dark, brooding, more adult, hints of slapstick. A ton of fun. Batman Returns: Really dark, really violent, and overtly sexual. Even more fun. Can't wait for that reaction.
Everyone forgets that in 1989 this movie was a dark gothic re-boot of Batman, one so successful that it's how Hollywood still treats Batman today 40 years later. In the comic books, Batman started off in the 1930's a mainly a detective who used his wealth to apply science to follow clues and solve crimes rather than using his fists; in fact his early comic series was titled "Detective Comics, starring Batman." This reflected the times, in which science was just starting to be used by real police to solve crimes. Later, after WW2, he was joined by sidekicks Robin and Batgirl, and he became more of a superhero fighting criminals, but he was cheerful and lived by a code of honor in which he arrested criminals for the police and never committed violence unless necessary, which reflected the post-WW2 vision of America as noble and principled and wars were won by teamwork and democracy rather than individuals. By the 1960s Batman got his own TV series starring Adam West, and devolved into goofy camp; Batman literally cracked jokes as he caught the bad guys. This was the Batman that existed in the 1970s; a joking good guy who never injured or killed anyone. In the 1980s, a comic book mini-series came out re-imagining Batman as a dark brooding solitary loner, and in one shocking issue, Batman kills a mass murderer (he seals him in a sewer and walks away). This series was legendary and was called "The Dark Knight," the first time that name was used for Batman. Tim Burton's 1989 movie followed this Dark Knight formula, and it was a surprise to audiences as well as a huge hit, and was so successful that, to this day, everyone has forgotten the early iterations of Batman and we all think of him as "The Dark Knight" as if he's always been that way.
Also a Christmas movie 🎄 👍
Sealing that guy in the sewer was the KGBeast in Ten Nights Of The Beast not DKR,it was later retconned to where the guy lived
Wait what about Batman The Animated Series?
Batman Returns is a horror movie
Michael will always be my Batman. Close to the mild-mannered Bruce Wayne of the comics and TV series.
I loved this movie when it came out. Love the channel ✌️💜
Same. Also Jack will always be my Joker. I did not care for the later Joker renditions in any of the newer films. Especially Ledger, he was horrible, may he rest in peace.
For _every_ screen Batman (and Joker for that matter) you can point to a story, era or specific author's run in the comics that's a pretty close correspondence/inspiration.
People who talk about what he's like in the comics seem to be under the impression that the characterisation of Bruce Wayne and Batman has always been the same over the 80+ years of the character's existence. Needless to say, this is simply untrue.
The last two minutes-- everything from "HE GAVE US A SIGNAL!"-- is probably my fave superhero ending ever. That insane operatic musical finale gives me chills still after dozens of viewings.
Yes,since I was a child I get a surreal feeling from it
That ending and the Christopher Reeve flyby smile in Superman
Interesting how they changed a little bit of the original origin story of batmans parents death and made it Joker. In the comics it was a low level thief named Joe Chill, which in the Nolan version, they brought that detail back.
Burton's Batman films still has best atmosphere there is. Music, gothic-horror style, color palette added with Danny Elfman's intense theme. Never fails to give me goosebumps
Definitely... It feels like a comic book, very creative in setting and style. Recent "comic book" movies are just CGI fests with no real mood.
Well my favorite ending is in Mask Of The Phantasm where the batsignal started to hit the sky, and Batman (Kevin Conroy) looked up, and used his grappling hook, and cut to black with music start playing.
I saw it in the theater in '89. The room was packed.
When the Batmobile made its first appearance, the entire audience gave a loud "Ooooohhhh!"
I saw it also in 89 opening night , the line to the ticket window literally went out to the parking lot . This movie was huge for the time .
@@SJ-ty5rw ... Just like when the first Superman film was released. It was an EVENT!
my whole family went to the next one
same. the movie theater atmosphere was like a rock concert. sold out theater. about 30 people camped out over night. someone brought a few beach balls and they were hitting them around the auditorium. some guy stood up and proposed to his girlfriend in front of everyone, when she said yes the theater went crazy. the movie started and the crowd was just amped and fully into it. the best movie going experience ever. and i was 9 at the time. just amazing
I had to sneak in to see this in NY because I was too young. And your right the theater was PACKED!!
6:13 Mark! By the way! Actress Kim Bassinger was going back and forth between working in this movie and working in "My Stepmother is an Alien" in which she is the titular character! 😊
I was OBSESSED with this movie when it came out. Had the trading cards and everything.
Me too!
Me three, so we are all early 40's 😂
I even remember pink bubblegum with a powdery, ashy Batman sticker wrapped around it.
Yeah, this defined like two full summers of my childhood 😆
@@MrTuubster I'm 45, was 11 then. This movie AND the soundtrack had me in a chokehold. And yes, I vividly remember the gum! LOL.
I had the "sticker" cards that would go with a booklet in Mexico when I was 5 years old. I guess it's why I loved the animated series so much.
6:13 Actress! A different actress, of course, played her in the 1930s - 1940s! She was to Batman as Lois Lane is to Superman. Superman had an "LL" motif, and Batman had a "VV" motif. Then, at some point, "Selina Kyle/Catwoman" takes over! 😮 In the comics, that is! They have a daughter who grew up to become the original version of "The Huntress"! 😊
This is still my favorite Batman movie. It often is overlooked because it isn’t as refined as the next film. But this was the most comic accurate Joker. This film also is responsible for giving us the animated series which is the best representation of Batman EVER.
Yes
Unfortunately it wasn’t quite accurate in terms of Batman, I mean the way he just outright kills people isn’t very Batman like (Yes I know in the early comics he would do that but his no killing rule became such a big part of his character and what makes him so interesting)
But I’d say for the film it does still work
@@dylanburton4955 Did you even read my comment? I said the Joker in this film is most accurate to his comic counterpart, I never said Batman was.
@@XghostXfaceX2He's just giving his opinion as he didn't infer anything against what u said. People need to actually understand what they read & not just attack someone but guess social media just isn't the place for that...
@@TonyTheLoneRiderSmith Then he can do it as his own stand alone comment. But he put as a response to my comment. So the implication is he is responding to me and his response implies I asserted that Batman is comic accurate in this film. Which isn’t what I said at all. That’s why I am not sure he read my comment or he is slow in the head.
How isn’t that obvious to you? Like why is your response to defend this?
"Is that Alfred?"
For many of us Michael Gogh was THE Alfred. RIP
He connects the Burtons with the Schumachers and is Alfred in more Batman movies (4) than any other actor.
It’s not a bad thing to ask when he’s not the only servant running around. ❤
Along with Efrem Zimbalist jr
Agreed. And he was in the old Dracula movies
Don’t forget “Commissioner Gordon” Pat Hingle. Very underused as Gordon but he and Alfred were the constants in all 4 Classic Bat-Flicks
Batman returns is my favorite Batman film of all time. Well worth your time.
This movie to a 5 year old kid on the big screen in 1989 blew my mind. Still one of my all time favorite movies.
Being born in 85, this is the batman I grew up with. Batman Returns is really good too. I love both of them.
'85? Same feeling here man..I saw it in Argentina..sweet childhood memories..
84 🔥
Was also born in 85…so I loved Batman returns and just liked the 89 film. Keaton was an excellent Batman. But for me I’m all about the Nolan Batman trilogy. Each different films in their own right that can be appreciated for how well they were done.
I saw this multiple times at the theater in 1989 -- it is sad that we don't get movies like this anymore.
Nicholson made a boatload of money from this. He took roughly half his usual salary of $10M but got in on the rights to the sequels he wasn't even in and a percentage of the merchandising, which was HUGE back then. Ended up making anywhere from $75 to $125 MIllion.
Jack still makes money on Joker merchandise to this day.
I was going to say the same thing. Not only is Jack a brilliant actor, he's a brilliant businessman. He made bank from his deal on this movie. And as far as Batman goes, Michael Keaton is Batman. No one else can compare.
@@brickmwhat about Kevin Conroy the voice of Bruce Wayne/Batman in The DCAU, The Arkham games, Injustice games, and so many voice acting projects?
@@abramsullivan7764 I have mad respect for voice actors. They are fantastic at what they do. I was talking about live action. Out of all of the actors who have played a live action Batman, Michael Keaton is the man!
This was not the first official Batman film but this is the film that helped set up the rest to follow afterwards many years later in some form or another. In a way, this was ahead of its time. While this is indeed still a very serious film, its also not afraid to add some humor and light-hearted moments. It was a nice balance of different genres. It had all of what you could want and a bit more. It knows when to add in some suspense and knows when to add in some goofs. Some crazy WTF and wild moments too.
Plus, the musical score by Danny Elfman still holds up very well after all of these years.
Creating a very gothic and bombastic soundscape. The music also helped to inspire the animated series as well after the movie a few years later. The icing on the cake was having Prince himself do the music for the soundtrack on top of it. Giving them really catchy tones!
I haven't heard it in so long in full though. Great movie man and I enjoy people's reactions.
My fav Batman movie. Its a perfect blend of the comics and the old TV series. Its just tons of fun and not trying too hard to be all dark like the new Batman movies.
I don’t think the Nolan films were trying to be intentionally dark for the purpose of being dark at all..that was just the tone set from the beginning…but let’s be real, Batman returns (the best of Burton and Keaton Batman’s) is unbelievably dark as well. Batman films should be dark based on the source material.
Screen time data for Batman (1989) - Jack Nicholson - 39:40 (31.44%) - Kim Basinger - 36:26 (28.88%) - Michael Keaton - 34:50 (27.61%)
😁🎄 ooh, we have Christmas coming up and 'Batman Returns' is most definitely a Christmas movie! (Fingers crossed)
7:10 Mark! Jerry Hall was a supermodel, and her lover was Mick Jagger! 😎
Imagine being on a set with so many named "Jack"! 😂 Two actors at least and one of them are playing a fictional "Jack"! 😅
Its a classic. So many great moments. Jack and Michael just kill in this movie
The soundtrack by Danny Elfman was also top notch.
The Batman pinball machine I played all the time at the arcade had the phrase "Ever dance with the devil in the in the pale moon light?" Loved it.
I remember that one. And the high pitched "what are you" I'm Batman
This is the batman I grew up with. I was 6 when it released. Batman was everywhere. Toys, games, clothes, and even cereal.
The “laughter in a bag” (can’t recall the exact name) was a standard novelty gag years back, so right in the same vein as the chattering teeth. This first cinema outing of the Batsuit was made of heavy material which Keaton sweated in and because of its design prevented head movement. Interestingly, I saw in a behind-the-scenes clip that in the recent Flash film where they brought Kenton’s Batman back (didn’t see the movie) the costume designer initially offered him a new suit with more freedom of movement but he requested the older design as it was consistent with his embodiment of the character.
It's literally called a "Laughing bag"
@@EnerKaizer Thanks. I thought I remembered seeing the gag in places (e.g., comic books) as a kid, but was too lazy to look it up.
Maybe im biased since i was a kid when this cameout , but this is the best BATMAN movie!! Jacks the man as Joker!! And Michael Keaton!! " I AM BATMAN" !!!
The sequel Batman Returns is even better imo it leans more into Tim Burton eccentricities and features a truly iconic performance by Michelle Pfeiffer as Catwoman
No doubt…and let’s not forget impeccable casting of Danny Devito as the penguin.
The summer this came out, everyone went nuts for Batman! Always good to see the original. Thanks again for the excellent reaction! 😊
man that year was one of the best in cinematic history! indiana jones, ghostbusters (2), little mermaid, honey i shrunk the kids, lethal weapon (2), ROADHOUSE! you get it, it rocked. i was way too young to appreciate it at the time but i had all these movies in my vhs collection growing up ;)
@@fumblingtitan14111989 really was the best year for films, like EVER.
TRUE BELIEVERS, OUT COLD, SKIN DEEP, CHANCES ARE, 976-EVIL, PHYSICAL EVIDENCE, DEAD BANG, LOST ANGELS, MIKE HAMMER: MURDER TAKES ALL, not to mention THE FLY II, POLICE ACADEMY 6, and AMERICAN NINJA 3: BLOOD HUNT!
Literally the best year ever in movies.
This movie is the reason why we have Batman the animated series, in fact, Danny Elfman even composed the music for the show.
Danny Elfman composed the opening credits theme, but Shirley Walker, Danny's chief conductor, composed the music for the show.
One of the most wonderful things about Batman: TAS, Fox gave the creators a full orchestra to make music for each episode.
Shirley Walker composed all the music for the show. Danny Elfman gets credit for creating the theme, but the arrangement used for the show was done by Walker, and is not exactly the same as the movie theme.
@@Rocket1377 The theme sounds similar due to being bombastically dark and dramatic, but it's clearly a different theme if you listen to the both of them.
Fun Fact: The interior set of Axis Chemicals was shot at Acton Lane Power Station which was disused at the time and was also used previously for interior set of the atmosphere processing station in Aliens.
24:51 Mark! In the canon of the former "ABC" sitcom "The Drew Carry Show" his character won one of those "Batmobile" cars, while in reality, someone else won the sweepstakes in which it was a prize! 😂😅
Michael Keaton was and still is my favorite Batman. I hope you review more Keaton films, I know you two seen Beetlejuice and Jackie Brown. His first movie Nightshift is hilarious, Mr Mom is as well. Clean and Sober was his best acting performance and Pacific Heights is excellent also.
Are you doing this all 220? Yeah, 220... 225.. whatever it takes :)
Night Shift is excellent!
What about birdman
Fun Fact: Anton Furst designed this Gotham to be super depressing. He killed himself within a year after. This Batman is more disturbed. Less of an action hero and more like the old Universal Monsters. A tortured psychopath BUT he is a psycho on our side. P.S. Tim Burton's favorite scene is when Joker talks to the corpse
Batman returns for Christmas! Also I was nine when this came out and this was my childhood. You have no idea how it was to see Batman like this as a kid. Jack is amazing and you can see why so many actors love playing the joker.
Oh yeah! Batman Returns is Christmas themed!
I had a blast watching this with you guys. I remember watching this as a kid. Kim Bassinger is such a fantastic emotional star,I loved that scene on the stairs and that iconic scene of going to the Batcave. Very very good video guys. In that time period of time having "Prince music playing and Joker dancing was so awesome. 🌟✨️Happy Holidays✨️🌟
Surprised that neither of Y'all had ever seen this one before, but "Better Late than Never!"👍 If Y'all have time to squeeze it in, "Batman Returns" ('92) would be Perfect for a Christmas Reaction! 😉✌
Fun-Fact: the Design of this Batsuit ended up being so "tight" that Keaton literally couldn't turn his head, nor could he even hear anything while wearing it👈so he learned how to read-lips.
Part 2 is definitely worth the watch. Glad you enjoyed this one, it brings back fond memories.
Batman (1989) will always hold a place in my heart. It was my first Theatrical experience seeing this as a 4 year old in Edinburgh, Scotland. It blew my little mind 🤯
How'd you get into the cinema?
Batman was rated 15.
@@JeremiahEcks777 No idea haha I'd have to ask mom
Me too I was 5! This was the first blockbuster movie I attended.
Great reaction guys. I love this movie so much, Michael Keaton will always be my favorite batman and Bruce Wayne and Jack Nicholson gives an iconic performance as the joker.
Batman Returns is a must watch. Batman Forever is silly but fun for Jim Carrey. Batman and Robin would make for a great reaction video.
Batman & Robin is a fun film if you watch it not as the third sequel to this film, but as a modern homage to the 1960’s Batman TV show.
This film was ENORMOUS!!! It's difficult to explain the hype around it. People went repeatedly to see it in the cinema and everybody was talking about it and buying any kind of Batman merchandise they could get their hands on. It was mental.
I'm so excited for you to watch Batman Returns. It's incredible. Meow!
"Have you ever danced with the devil in the pale moonlight?"
Fun Fact: Axis Chemicals was filmed at the disused Acton Power Station known as West London. The power station had previously been used for the Atmosphere Processing Station in Aliens. When the Batman crew arrived, they found the Alien hive set still in situ.
Bob Ringwood was responsible for the Batman costume; & to this day Keaton still has back problems due to the weight of the rubber cape.
When designing the look of Gotham, Burton wanted it to look like ‘hell had vomited up a city’.
Alfred Pennyworth was played by Michael Gough. Gough starred in mutliple Hammer Horror films & his casting was due to Burtons love of those films. Gough & Burton would reunite on Batman Returns & later Sleepy Hollow.
Burton used Alan Moore’s graphic novel ‘The Killing Joke’ as the basis for the creation of the Joker. Todd Philips would also use ‘The Killing Joke’ as the basis for Arthur Flecks transformation in to Joker in the film of the same name.
Definitely my favorite superhero movie ever!!! Keaton & Nicholson are EASILYYYY my favorite portrayals of Batman and Joker! Burton was the perfect director for this movie & Danny Elfman produced THE most iconic Batman theme which is stilled used today!!! One of my favorite movies of all time!!! 😎
Danny Elfman is a genius!
It was funny that Schmitt didn't get the laugh box at the end scene and the subtle take that it was kinda saying Joker even in death got the last laugh.
I remember going to see this film in theaters and all the fervor around it. You HAD to have a ticket. People wanted to see what Tim Burton would do with a big budget studio project like Batman. There was definitely some concern from fans about Michael Keaton as a choice for the role because he was known for his comedy background...but he won over the audience. To this day, people love his portrayal.
This film has a ton of actors in it. Of course Jack Nicholson who's always brilliant. Kim Basinger, Billy Dee Williams..and Jack Palance. As well as a host of character actors like Robert Wuhl, Pat Hingle and Michael Gough, who you'll recognize from other Tim Burton projects.
As good as this film is, Batman Returns is even better, IMO. Stylistically it's more Tim Burton. The studio put some limitations on what he did with this first one. But he proved himself and came back to do the 2nd movie...and the studios really let him put his own stamp on the look/feel of that film.
Great reaction...hope you give the 2nd one a chance as well.
The whole static helmet for Batman lends itself to one of my favorite scenes in the Bale/Freeman series where Bale asks Freeman for a suit that he can turn his head in. Most people didn't catch that the whole scene is a nod to the 1989 "original" Batman movie and I loved that bit
Eh, I wouldn't say "most people". I think there are more people than not who understood that to be a reference to not only '89 Batman, but every Batman SINCE then, as none of them were able to turn their heads. Even Begins had that issue, and it was definitely noticed by even younger viewers for how odd it looked.
@@Fyrecide out of the people I've talked to about the movie, only one mentioned the callback. I've seen 5 reactions to this movie and none of them mentioned the callback. You are welcome to have your own opinion, though. Even if it's obviously wrong.
@@jhiieri7812 they aren't wrong though. Many of us have been here and about died laughing at that part. Newer viewers may miss it but it was one of the biggest gags in that trilogy for most life long fans. Milage may vary.
@@Lordalexzader that was my point exactly... I was giving kudos that they caught those awful head turns! If there were memes back then, you know they'd have had a field day with those awkward turns.
Batman Returns is GREAT. You should do it tomorrow.
This was amazing to experience in a theater. I was only 6 but I remember it like it was yesterday. It was my second movie theater experience and I'll never forget it. This movie is a huge part of my childhood. That summer, the bat symbol was everywhere. You couldn't escape it. Nicholson was perfect as The Joker and Keaton will always be BATMAN to me. This did win an Oscar for it's art direction.
I was 8, unbelievable stuff 🤯
Something interesting...The Vicky Vale photo from Corto Maltese, it's the base of operation for Bane in the Batman universe, where he produce his venom !
The Joker saving Francis Bacon’s screaming pope in the art gallery is a touch I never get tired of.
Top notch reaction as always! This movie was HUGE on release. Nicholson negotiated to earn 2% of "back end" salary based on the film's profit. He hauled in a reported 11m just from that (not counting his normal fee).
One of the greatest movie theater experiences when i was a kid. This movie was HUGE once released. My favorite Batman movie. Jack Nicholson was incredible. Batman Returns is a great sequel. Tim Burton's vision was beautiful.
This movie was a huge part of my childhood lol. I watched it so many times. I still place this as the best batman movie made. Keaton did a hell of a job and so did Jack.
Hope you check out Batman Returns next and see another iconic performance by Danny Devito.
Now that you have watched the Keaton Batman i higly suggest you to watch *Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)* also with Michael Keaton!! A great satire in which Keaton persiflage his famous role/life. Synopsis: "A washed-up superhero actor attempts to revive his fading career by writing, directing, and starring in a Broadway production". It won 4 Oscars and was nominated for 9. A must see!
Now this is the REAL Batman film. So is Batman Returns, you should do that next.
Jack Nicholson's Joker is still the GOAT for me. There are moments in this movie when he's absolutely terrifying.
I saw this in the theater the night of its release . I’ve never seen another. No need .. Michael Keaton is the only Batman I’ll ever need . Jack is the one and only Joker ! Nobody compares !! So glad you finally saw the Best!🌠‼️
Don't forget Caesar Romero as the Joker in the 60s television series.
Graat reaction you two....This movie was a mega blockbuster back in 1989. Definitely check out the sequel Batman Returns (also directed by Tim Burton and Michal Keaton back as Batman)....and since it is set around Christmas, it's great for this time of year 🎄
If you're looking for an even eariler Batman movie, then feel free to check out Batman: The Movie (1966) with Adam West as Bruce Wayne/Batman, Burt Ward as Dick Grayson/Robin and features Cesar Romero as The Joker, Frank Gorshin as The Riddler, Burgess Meredith (Micky from the Rocky films) as The Penguin and Lee Merrywather as Catwoman.... originally this was supposed to be a pilot movie for the '66 TV series but ended up getting pushed back due to rushing the show into production to fill the network timeslot, so the movie ended up being released in between season 1 and season 2 of the TV series and at the hight of Batmainia in the 60s. And because it was broadcast in full color at the time (when most households still had cheaper B&W TV sets) and the costumes, props, sets, etc were so colorful, that also drove families to go purchase newer color sets just to watch Batman (later other popular shows like Star Trek, Mission Impossible, The Man From U.N.C.L.E., etc). Yes, the show, and the movie, was done in a campy, tongue-in-cheek, with innuendos, bad puns & dad jokes style (which also was the style of the comics of that time period - so the show & movie were both satiring and emulating the comics of the 60s). There is a charm to this very silly but still respectful rendition of Batman & Robin that is worth a watch, if only for a curiosity...What I tell people is - if you like Mel Brooks movies, well this is like if Mel Brooks made a Batman movie, it would be Batman: The Movie (1966). 🦇
'wouldn't hit a guy with glasses would ya?' 🤣
And yes, Jack Nicholson had a lot of fun with this character if you go by some of the interviews later on.
I'm really glad you guys are reacting to Batman (89). It's my favorite movie of all time. Michael Keaton is my favorite Batman and Danny Elfman's music is very iconic.
The ending of this movie pays homage to a pair of Hitchcock films:
Vertigo
North by Northwest
Batman Returns is on the list of all time best sequels!
Fun Fact ALIENS connection: Axis Chemicals and the Aliens hive was filmed in the same place and old decommissioned power plant. When the Batman crew first arrived they found a lot of the aliens props including the eggs still there. If you look at both, you can notice some things are the same ..I e the railing.
Batman: Mask of the Phantasm (1993)... Kevin Conroy's Batman is quintessential.
Yes, Batman TAS is the perfect 1930's/1950's Gotham
Kevin Conroy it's tragic that he passed away at the age of 66.
These two Batman’s are definitely my favorites.. Think y’all would love Batman Returns
Tim Burton did the next one, Batman Returns too, and it's got even more of his feel on it. They're both the great ones.
4:42 Mark! Aha! A Black "Harvey Dent" when played by Billy Dee Williams! But he becomes a Caucasian guy again, just in time for Tommy Lee Jones to play him as "Two-Face"! (Drew Barrymore & Debi Mazar as "Sugar & Spice" respectively! His lovers!)
Oh, and by the way! Val Kilmer & George Clooney are both meant to be playing the same version of "Batman" as Michael Keaton. It was simply recasting to continue the movie franchise, not "rebooting"! Like how Brandon Routh replaced the late Christopher Reeves in "Superman Returns" where everyone but Marlon Brando was recast! Even a different city played "Metropolis"!
But the recent movie "The Flash" changed it! If I explained how you might call it "spoilers"! 😮
It may seem silly and unpracticle having the bat suit not able to turn its head, but I feel this actually added to the dramatic, somewhat inhuman, gesturing of Batman with the quick turns of his entire body. This particular way of moving became pretty damn iconic and it helped make you forget that it's just a guy in that suit. I remember when the first Christopher Nolan Batman came out, I was so weirded out by the head turning - THAT felt unnatural for the character. It's pretty funny when you think about it.
I agree. Kudos to Keaton. Made a limitation into an iconic movement.
There's a sense of mood and character... In the Nolan movies it's just another musclebound action hero in a generic setting.
I graduated high school in 89' and was/am a devoted Prince fan. Me and my friend group saw this film in theater maybe 6 times. This film was a perfect mix of the Adam West camp, and a new generation of, at the time, modern films. It's a jewel.
Batman Returns is a fantastic sequel! Please react to it! Love you guys! Keep up the excellent work!
A lot of actors were considered for the role of BATMAN:
Pierce Brosnan, Kiefer Sutherland, Bruce Willis, Mel Gibson, Sylvester Stallone, Bill Murray, Harrison Ford, Steven Seagal, Kurt Russell, Al Pacino, Patrick Swayze, Tom Cruise, Kevin Spacey, Alec Baldwin, Kevin Costner, Richard Gere, Michael Biehn, Ray Liotta, Tom Hanks, John Travolta, Sean Penn, Emilio Estevez, Matthew Broderick, Kevin Kline, William Hurt, Mickey Rourke, Charlie Sheen, Dennis Quaid, Jeff Bridges, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Tom Selleck, Kyle MacLachan, Chevy Chase, Jean Claude Van Damme, Michael Douglas and Robert Downey Jr.
A lot of actors were considered for The Joker:
Tim Curry, David Bowie, Jeff Goldblum, Willem Dafoe, Dennis Hopper, James Woods Donald Sutherland, John Lithgow, Brad Dourif, Robert Englund, Robert DeNiro, Alan Rickman, John Malkovich, Ray Liotta, And Robin Williams.
Some actors were considered for Harvey Dent:
Don Johnson, William Peterson, Dale Midkiff, and Ray Liotta.
A lot of actresses were considered for Vicki Vale:
Sean Young, Michelle Pfeiffer, Geena Davis, Brooke Shields, Daryl Hannah, Linda Hamilton, Debra Winger, Demi Moore, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Carrie Fisher, Ally Sheedy, Meg Ryan and Sigourney Weaver.
A lot of directors were considered for making BATMAN 89:
Steven Spielberg, Joe Dante, Richard Donner, Alex Cox, David Cronenberg, Guy Hamilton, Ivan Reitman, Wes Craven, John Carpenter, Tobe Hooper, Tony Scott, John McTiernan, Terry Gilliam, Walter Hill, Brian DePalma, Ridley Scott, James Cameron, Martin Scorsese, David Lynch and Robert Zemekis.
That's a lot
That's a big selection
Michael Keaton just 1 of those guys I love whatever he does. Main guy supporting cast - he just sticks out in whatever he does
Its been at least 30 years since i saw this. Already forgot that Jack Palance (Guy who set up Nicholson) was even in this. I highly recommend him and Billy Crystal in City Slickers.
I remember reading something a long time ago that the mouth prosthetics used on Jack Nicholson caused him serious jaw problems afterwards.
Couple reactions can be very good, if you have the right couple--and you two are very good. Thanks.
This is a true classic, but the sequel Batman Returns is my all time favorite. Amazing performances from an all star cast.
Keaton IS Batman. He sets the standard. People hated George Clooney as Batman, including Clooney himself, but honestly I thought he did a decent job with it. Particularly his relationship with Alfred.
George Clooney’s Batman felt like a modern interpretation of the 60’s TV show. I mean, they had a Bat-Credit Card for chrissakes! 😂
@@davidmcleod5133 Yeah, I think that was the problem - if it had been a standalone film (or even a 2 film series with Batman Forever) it might have pulled it off as a campy take, but as it was the same continuity as the first two films it just felt really weird with the difference in tone.
Clooney as Batman was better than Val Kilmer...
I actually don't mind Clooney's Bruce Wayne. But his Batman is terrible IMO.
(and disagree BTW, it's obviously Kevin Conroy that sets the standard :)
Clooney was ironically the best Bruce Wayne.
I loved to see you guys react to the campy 60s/70s Batman TV series and made for TV movie starring Adam West
My fave Batman movie! Michael Keaton played Bruce Wayne more as he was originally presented in the old comics. Great review!
Screen Time Breakdown:
Jack Nicholson - 39:40
Kim Basinger - 36:26
Michael Keaton - 34:50
These Batmans pre Nolan/Bale where still very influenced by the 60s TV show, that's why they're more goofy. And also, Keaton's Batman starts killing or being more violent after he finds out the Joker had killed his parents. Watch Batman Returns, just in time for Xmas!!!
Everyone forgets that in 1989 this movie was a dark gothic re-boot of Batman, one so successful that it's how Hollywood still treats Batman today 40 years later. In the comic books, Batman started off in the 1930's a mainly a detective who used his wealth to apply science to follow clues and solve crimes rather than using his fists; in fact his early comic series was titled "Detective Comics, starring Batman." This reflected the times, in which science was just starting to be used by real police to solve crimes. Later, after WW2, he was joined by sidekicks Robin and Batgirl, and he became more of a superhero fighting criminals, but he was cheerful and lived by a code of honor in which he arrested criminals for the police and never committed violence unless necessary, which reflected the post-WW2 vision of America as noble and principled and wars were won by teamwork and democracy rather than individuals. By the 1960s Batman got his own TV series starring Adam West, and devolved into goofy camp; Batman literally cracked jokes as he caught the bad guys. This was the Batman that existed in the 1970s; a joking good guy who never injured or killed anyone. In the 1980s, a comic book mini-series came out re-imagining Batman as a dark brooding solitary loner, and in one shocking issue, Batman kills a mass murderer (he seals him in a sewer and walks away). This series was legendary and was called "The Dark Knight," the first time that name was used for Batman. Tim Burton's 1989 movie followed this Dark Knight formula, and it was a surprise to audiences as well as a huge hit, and was so successful that, to this day, everyone has forgotten the early iterations of Batman and we all think of him as "The Dark Knight" as if he's always been that way.
23:55 TBR: *"Its not that bad. I thought she was gonna be REAL fukked up!!!"*
- Yet again, you got my daughter cracking up 😂😂😂
Only the face