Batman Forever (1995)

 

Genre: Action/Adventure

Time: 2h

Director: Joel Schumacher

Quick Summary: Batman must battle former district attorney Harvey Dent, who is now Two-Face and Edward Nygma, The Riddler with help from an amorous psychologist and a young circus acrobat who becomes his sidekick, Robin.

This is a bit of a jump in style, especially watching it immediately after Batman Returns, but I like it still. I actually liked how cartoonish this was, in aesthetic and humour as honestly it still fits in with Batman. It's fun, silly and campy. A lot of people I think will find this enjoyable.

I'm not sure how I feel about Val Kilmer as Batman, he was okay but honestly, he was nothing special. Chris O'Donnell took some time for me to like him as Robin, and he didn't really add much aside from little comedic relief moments. I actually liked his introduction through this film, it doesn't feel forced and it actually makes sense towards the plot, shame he didn't really do much within this.

Tommy-Lee Jones as Two-Face I really liked, I found him funny and really gave a good strong performance. I loved his more cartoonish design, standing out in bright and bold colours and patterns, which really added to the aesthetic of this film. 

Jim Carey, I usually dislike as he is too over the top and in your face. But for this he was perfect and he fit the role of the riddler by 100%. I do think he wasn't acting he was just being himself. He steals a lot of the film with his silly antics and funny lines which are always delivered with perfect comedic timing. 

Batman's romantic interest I liked but I wish we got to see more development. Without spoiling much, it gave a good amount of conflict for Batman in choosing which side of his life to live, it played into the duality of being a normal person or a superhero. Nicole Kidman didn't really stand out too much but the concept of the character I found more interesting, being a Psychologist who is fascinated by the mind of Batman and what has driven him to be Batman. 

Overall, this is just a silly fun film that is meant to be enjoyed. The script is full of funny moments and everything about this film is just over the top.

6/10

"Edward Nygma: [hit boss on head with coffee canister] Caffeine'll KILL YA!"

"The Riddler: [to Two Face after Batman shows up] Your entrance was good... his was better. The difference: showmanship."