The Lego Batman Movie is a spin-off from the successful 2014 film The Lego Movie, created by Christopher Miller and Phil Lloyd. On this project, they worked alongside Chris McKay, known for Adult Swim shows such as Robot Chicken, and have theoretically handed him the keys to the Lego Batcave for his debut feature film. Will Arnett reprises his role voicing the miniature caped crusader and is joined by a star-studded cast. Michael Cera is excitable sidekick Robin, Arnett having to act as more of a father figure here than his Uncle Gob in Arrested Development. Rosario Dawson is the new commissioner Barbara Gordon, with Dawson bringing plenty of experience to the table from the superhero world of DC and Marvel. Zach Galifianakis is The Joker, the second clown Galifianakis has portrayed alongside his FX show Baskets. Even Ralph Fiennes joins the crew in his first ever fully CGI role as Alfred Pennyworth, working together to fight Batman’s biggest enemy: himself.
Whilst many people would think The Joker is Batman’s greatest foe, including The Joker, Batman doesn’t see it that way. In fact, Batman doesn’t do relationships of any kind, whether they be friendships, romantic or indeed archenemies. However, after saving Gotham once again, taking down all of his enemies, he travels back to Wayne Manor alone to watch romantic comedies with a microwave lobster bisque for one. Isolating himself and ignoring Alfred’s advice to start a new family, we encounter our primary theme of loneliness. Due to Bruce’s past trauma of losing his parents, he pushes everyone away to avoid that heartbreak happening again, linking it to his responsibility of protecting others whilst fighting these dangerous villains. It may be a common element in all of Batman’s storylines but only The Lego Batman Movie has placed Batman’s mental health as the main focus, flipping the narrative on its head.
Pretty heavy for a kid’s film right? Well, it’s perfectly balanced with comedy elements in the picture. The amount of references are extraordinary, digging up all of the weird aspects from the Batman universe. They cover the different costumes with colourful poppy montages, all of the gadgets around the utility belt including shark repellent spray, and include illustrious career villains such as Calendar Man & Gentleman Ghost. There’s also the occasional adult joke, knowing full well that the parents will be sitting through it too. The animation / CGI style runs pretty smoothly with the occasional vehicles being built on screen a nice touch, consistent with The Lego Movie. The film is not heavily reliant on nostalgia but you will get more out of it if you’re familiar with the previous renditions as there’s plenty of Easter Eggs dotted around.
Overall, I was surprised by how much I quite enjoyed The Lego Batman Movie. It’s very easy to market this as a kids superhero film and not put the effort in afterwards as the picture practically pays for itself. However, the amount of detail in each scene is incredible (warranting a re-watch) and all of the jokes land on their feet à la Catwoman. The story itself subverted my expectations, exploring topics I had brought up in my prelude article I wouldn’t have believed to feature in any of the films. The Lego Batman Movie doesn’t take itself too seriously, but also shows that there is strength in numbers and that teamwork can make the dream work.