The 1980s were an important decade in comic book history. Alan Moore published “V for Vendetta” and his groundbreaking magnum opus, “Watchmen.” The latter deconstructs superheroes affecting American history. For instance, Richard Nixon remains as president in his third term. Thus, the Watergate Scandal never happened. Fresh from writing Wolverine’s four-part mini-series and Daredevil comics for Marvel, Frank Miller worked for DC. He wrote four-part storyline, “Batman: Year One” focusing further details on Batman & Jim Gordon’s early years. Then, Frank wrote a four-part mini-series, “The Dark Knight Returns.” Set outside the DC Universe. A realistic and gritty depiction of Batman who’s pushing 60, comes out of retirement to fight crime with help from a young girl named, Carrie Kelly who becomes the new Robin. Due to superheroes becoming outlawed, (minus Superman who works for the government) he’s hunted by the cops.
All four issues of The Dark Knight Returns were officially published in 1986. The mini-series earned unanimous praise from critics, fans and readers alike. Thanks to Frank Miller, Batman’s dark, brooding badass mood influenced portrayals of the character including Michael Keaton, Kevin Conroy, Christian Bale, Ben Affleck & Robert Pattinson. Speaking of Caped Crusader, I have three legit reasons why I wanna review this groundbreaking graphic novel that made my favorite superhero a badass.
- Lego Batman: Legends of the Dark Knight will be released on May 29, 2026.
- Robert Pattinson will reprise his role Batman and in an upcoming sequel coming in 2027. Which is set outside James Gunn’s DC Universe.
- The Brave and the Bold set within the DC Universe is currently in development. Coming in 2028. The exact same year “The Dark Knight” turns 20.
Today’s review doesn’t contain any SPOILERS.
Good & Evil Aspects
Good: Say what you will about Frank Miller, but he did an awesome job making Batman a dark and brooding hero. I know his tropes on portraying women are controversial, but I’m giving Frank credit for making Wolverine & Batman badasses. Frank’s art style matches the dark and gritty tone. This is way before Frank did Batman dirty in “All-Star Batman.”
Action Sequences are brutal. Makes the old school comics look like “The Sound of Music.” Batman’s epic battle with Superman is perhaps the most famous battle in comic book history.
Random Thoughts
- Prior to reading the graphic novel, I watched the two-part animated film to prep up for “Batman vs. Superman.” By the way, Peter Weller (RoboCop) voiced Batman.
- Every time I read a Batman comic, I can hear Christian Bale or Kevin Conroy’s in my head.
- To spice things up a notch, I listen to Hans Zimmer’s soundtrack from “The Dark Knight Trilogy.” Mr. Zimmer’s my favorite film composer.
- I haven’t read the follow-up sequels, “The Dark Knight Strikes Again” & “The Dark Knight III: Master Race.” Maybe someday, I’ll get a chance to read ‘em. As long as I got nothing on my plate.
Oliver Queen/Green Arrow & Selina Kyle/Catwoman make brief appearances.
Batman’s chemistry with Jim Gordon, Alfred & Carrie Kelly serves as the main highlight.
Batman delivers an epic speech, “The one man who beat you.” A billion times better than “Martha, why did you say that name!”
Fun Facts
- Remember the talk show scene from Joaquin Phoenix’s Joker? A similar scene from the graphic novel with Joker appearing on a talk show was influenced by it. Todd Phillips did his homework.
- Like my favorite graphic novel, “Watchmen,” The Dark Knight Returns takes place in the 1980s. Both, Alan Moore & Frank Miller pioneered dark and realistic comic books. The former is my favorite comic book writer.
Pacing for each part felt organic. I was hooked since the beginning.
Primary Themes are Duality, Order vs. Chaos, Ideology, Morality Regarding Good vs. Evil & Legacy. Each one’s handle maturely.
I can’t tell you how the battle between Batman and Superman ends on the final part, you’ll have to read for yourself.
Evil: I couldn’t find nothing wrong. I’m giving Frank an Extra Point for making a flawless four-part mini/series as possible.
The Final Verdict: A, FOR APEX!
The Dark Knight Returns remains as a groundbreaking quintessential graphic novel that made Batman a dark, brooding badass and complete opposite of Superman. If you’re interested in reading this four-part mini-series, order a physical copy on Amazon or subscribe digitally to DC Infinite Universe. The choice is yours. Which DC Comics storyline should I review next? Please leave a comment.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 