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Artistic License: Batman Seeks The Truth Under The Red Hood

The newest DC Universe DVD brings Batman face-to-face with his worst nightmare

There have been moments in comics when something was done with a beloved character that upset the readers. Things like killing off heroes or other significant characters, or changing their origins.

One of the most famous controversies was the life and death of Jason Todd, the second Robin in the DC Universe. Earlier this week, DC released an animated original movie that deals with Todd's return, Batman: Under the Red Hood.

Fans were definitely opinionated when Todd was introduced, with many feeling that the character was not a fit Robin. It was determined that the fans would decide Todd's fate, whether or not he would be killed. It was anticipated that the vote would be overwhelming, but it was a small margin, and Todd was killed by The Joker.

The movie starts with scenes of Todd's death, and then jumps forward to show that a new player has come to Gotham City, known as Red Hood. It is no surprise at all that Todd is the Red Hood, but the story takes the viewers along as Bruce Wayne solves the mystery. During the course of the movie, the two fight both against and with each other, but ultimately have to come to terms with the fact that they must go down separate roads.

This story is not the exact same story as told in the comics, although similar. Some fans may not like this version, but I believe it worked well for the movie. The main difference is how Todd was resurrected, and I feel that the same overall concept is preserved in the movie.

I highly recommend this video. The animation is outstanding, very similar to other recent DC and Batman works. The story moves along at a perfect pace, with some great action and some nicely done flashbacks to help viewers get to know Todd and his relationship with Bruce Wayne. I like how Dick Grayson, the first Robin, was included in the story. The voice work was also wonderful, particularly the three leads: Bruce Greenwood as Wayne/Batman, Jensen Ackles as Todd/Red Hood and Neil Patrick Harris as Grayson/Nightwing.

Also included are several extras. DC Showcase Presents brings us a Jonah Hex story, but to be honest, unless you happen to be a Hex fan, I recommend skipping this one. The story was flat, and while it might appeal to those who are already fans of the character, I don't think it will have a wide appeal to others.

The best of the extras is Robin: The Story of Dick Grayson which examines the origin and evolution of Grayson over the years. Writers and others give some inside information about this character and his creation, and these insights can also help fans understand Batman and the other characters. There is also a first look at DC Universe's next movie, Superman/Batman Apocalypse, as well as a brief look at three features that have been previously released. Finally, Bruce Timm (producer for this and many other animated ventures for DC, among other things) presents two episodes of Batman the Animated Series.

Batman and DC Universe fans, this video is definitely for you. Great art, wonderful story, outstanding acting, and nice extras. I don't think there will be controversy here, as I think most fans will agree this is an excellent video.

About the Author

Jill Rayburn is a professional fan writer, who lives with her husband Dennis in Radcliff, Ky. Her work appears on other sites on the net, most notably Roddenberry.com. She brings her knowledge and examination of the world of comics, World of Warcraft, Star Trek Online, and other Internet gaming to Airlock Alpha.
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