THE BAT, THE CAT, THE PENGUIN.
The Caped Crusader returns, ready to do battle with the Penguin (Danny DeVito), a freak who has risen from Gotham City’s sewage works, and Catwoman (Michelle Pfeiffer), who is intrigued by the Bat.
Director Tim Burton’s sequel is at times brutal and mean-spirited, featuring a touch of sadomasochism and a superhero who’s become a bit blue. There’s not much logic to the story and the Penguin’s grand plan is not only revolting but also surprisingly dull in its execution.
Other ingredients compensate; the film looks great, DeVito is a terrifically tragic villain, and Pfeiffer very alluring as the purring Cat.
1992-U.S. 126 min. Color. Directed by Tim Burton. Music: Danny Elfman. Song: “Face to Face” (performed by Siouxsie and the Banshees). Cast: Michael Keaton (Bruce Wayne/Batman), Danny DeVito (Oswald Cobblepot/Penguin), Michelle Pfeiffer (Selina Kyle/Catwoman), Christopher Walken, Michael Gough, Michael Murphy, Pat Hingle… Paul Reubens, Doug Jones.
Trivia: Co-produced by Burton. Marlon Brando, Dustin Hoffman and Robert De Niro were considered for the part of the Penguin. Annette Bening was first hired as Catwoman, but had to bow out; in an attempt to land the part, Sean Young dressed up in a homemade Catwoman costume for an impromptu audition. Followed by Batman Forever (1995).
Quote: “Life’s a bitch. Now so am I.” (Pfeiffer)