Merry Little Batman

This is exactly what would happen if Batman were a Cartoon Network production rather than a DC production.

The fact that the project was handed over to Mike Roth really added a different style to the animation.

Mike Roth is a name who has previously written and drawn works such as SpongeBob SquarePants and Regular Show.

It was a logical decision to include experienced names such as James Cromwell and Luke Wilson in the dubbing cast.

They entrusted the character of Damien Wayne to Yonas Kibreab, who has experience beyond his years.

As a Batman collector myself, I am very satisfied. Of course, when it comes to Batman, everyone has very high expectations.

A very fun and well made movie! It's the right amount of comedy and heart and Batman action. An original story with fun references all the way through for hard-core Batman fans. But at the same time just enjoyable Christmas movie with warm fuzzy feeling for all! All the voice actors fit the their roles perfectly, and the interpretation of their characters is spot on for what it is, and yet true to the comic books. This is obviously made by people that are true fans of Batman and had a clear and deliberate story to tell and everything worked together, nothing was wasted and the pacing was fantastic, and you knew you were in good hands as you watch! Enjoy!

Watch it for Batman & Luke Wilson with some great actors from other well known shows and movies. If you are a Batman fan like myself you will love this quirky yet enjoyable and never before presentation of The Dark Knight.

Mike Roth's Merry Little Batman is a great cartoon for families. The art style is funny and reminds us of cartoons from Cartoon Network in the 2010s, like Regular Show. Damian Wayne, Batman's son, is usually shown in one way, but this movie changes that. It's really funny, and the voices, especially Luke Wilson as Batman, are excellent. It's a perfect cartoon for the holidays, with a good mix of heart and humor thanks to the writers Morgan Evans and Jase Ricci from Teen Titans Go!.

FILM: 7/10.

Embarking on a watch of the 2023 film Merry Little Batman, I found myself pleasantly surprised by this rescued gem. Initially teetering on the brink of becoming another Warner Bros tax write-off, Amazon stepped in to salvage this animated adventure from cinematic obscurity.

Designed with a bullseye on the 30 to 40-something parents who cut their Bat-teeth on Batman: The Animated Series, Merry Little Batman delivers a Bat-themed holiday treat perfect for family viewing.

The animation style, a departure from my usual preferences, echoes the director Mike Roth's earlier work on SpongeBob SquarePants and The Regular Show. While not my cup of tea, it adds a quirky charm that younger audiences might appreciate.

What truly sets Merry Little Batman aglow is its relentless shower of references to Batman lore from comics, films, and TV shows. It's a joy for fans, creating a playful tapestry woven with nods to the Caped Crusader's expansive pop culture footprint.

At its core, the film cleverly repackages the Home Alone formula. However, instead of a regular family, we have Batman's son, Damian, defending Wayne Manor and Gotham against the formidable rogues' gallery. The familiar premise injects a fresh dose of fun into the holiday-themed narrative.

While the animation style might not align with my tastes, Merry Little Batman manages to carve out its own Bat-niche. It's a festive flick that successfully bridges the generational gap, offering a holiday escapade that's both nostalgic for Bat-fans and a new, animated delight for the younger audience. With a playful spirit and nods to Batman's rich legacy, it's a merry Bat-venture worth unwrapping.

FORMAT: Streaming

VIDEO: 9/10.

1080p streaming presentation, Detail level: Good, Colour reproduction: Excellent, Level accuracy: Excellent, Encode: Excellent, Master condition: Excellent

AUDIO: 9/10.

Dolby Digital 5.1 streaming audio, Dialogue reproduction: Excellent, Soundtrack & effects clarity: Excellent, Dynamics: Excellent, Surround sound presentation: Good, LFE content: Good

MOOFIEMETER: 7/10.

I really want to love this movie but I just found myself feeling 'meh' in the end. The concept is interesting because it tends to get tiresome seeing gritty and tough Batman. It's great that somebody wants to lighten things up and give a more carefree view of Batman without going zany and immature to the level of Teen Titans Go.

The performances are pretty solid. I was hesitant with Luke Wilson at first but he is probably the strongest role of the film. Turns out he is well suited for the 'Bat-Dad' role.

Lastly, the animation style. I really like it. It made me feel like getting out the brushes and painting a scene. I love that it isn't too complex but still engaging.

If you're a Batman fan then check it out. Just don't expect anything eye opening or revolutionary.