Batman Returns Movie Review

More (actually lots more) of the same from director Tim Burton, with Michael Keaton's Batman remaining the least interesting character. He is again overshadowed by provocative villains. Danny DeVito is the sadly misshapen Penguin who seeks to rule over the city that has tormented him; Michelle Pfeiffer is the exotic and dangerous Catwoman – who has more than a passing purr-sonal interest in Batman; and Christopher Walken is the maniacal tycoon Max Shreck. As the old saying goes, too many cooks spoil the stew; here, too many villains and a muddled plot spoil Batman's return. DeVito is wicked as the Penguin; so wicked, in fact, that he makes mustering any sympathy for this flightless bird awfully difficult. Pfeiffer fares best in her wickedly sexy role and skin-tight costume (complete with bullwhip). The plot is secondary to the special effects and nightmarish settings. Despite a big budget, this bloated sequel is of the love-it-or-leave-it variety. Look for Paul Reubens (Pee Wee Herman) in a cameo. Followed by the improved Batman Forever in 1995.

1992 (PG-13) 126m/C Michael Keaton, Danny DeVito, Michelle Pfeiffer, Christopher Walken, Michael Gough, Michael Murphy, Cristi Conaway, Pat Hingle, Vincent Schiavelli, Jan Hooks, Paul (Pee Wee Herman) Reubens, Andrew Bryniarski; D: Tim Burton; W: Daniel Waters; M: Danny Elfman. Nominations: Academy Awards ‘92: Best Makeup, Best Visual Effects. VHS WAR