|
The Batman vs.
Dracula (Movie)
|
 Although this is not a movie per say, but given its timing and
the fact that I wasted time and money in viewing and reviewing that piece of
‘Ultimate’ cr*p, I decided to devote some time to this one too.
Right off the mark, the difference in the quality of animation is apparent to…uhm,
to the naked eye. Whatever be the status of their comic publishing arm, DC
Animated clearly trounces Marvel’s weak and half hearted attempts at animation.
Batman TAS (and Batman: Gotham Knights), Superman TAS, Justice League Unlimited.
Just three names make it clear. This new ‘The Batman’ series, although
independent and different from the continuity (and animation style) set in the
others, follows the same standard. I am a hardcore fan of the Batman TAS and
even though I hated this series in the beginning, I enjoy it now, for one single
reason. I take it as an animated (thoroughly modernized) version of the Batman
established by the Adam West starring Batman series.
The story, although well known and somewhat clichéd, is told quite well and in a
fluid manner. Given its time, I almost segued to compare it with the ‘Apocalypse
versus Dracula’ miniseries (published by Marvel). The Dracula here keeps with
the character (art) style set about for the others. His waking, and ‘rising’ is
brought about quite well, and although the ‘bleached hair’ (for the vampires)
come across as quirky, it doesn’t seem cheap, but rather works quite well to
depict that undead feeling.
Another pleasant surprise, one which I hope is written into the cartoon series,
is a possible female protagonist for Bruce Wayne….in the form of the vivacious
Vicki Vale. Even her character, a first (proper) appearance in anything
Bat-video related (cartoons, movies) is a fully rounded one and not just a last
minute, obligatory fill-in.
For niggling, I would have liked the end to be a bit more ‘sinister’, and the
whole thing another 10-15 minutes longer….if just to get more of the ‘turned’
vampires and/or Bruce-Vicki time. But that is just me being greedy.
Conclusion: Another addition in the long established fine DC
Animated tradition.
RATING: 9/10 (almost 9.5)
|