Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker (2000)

Release Date:

2000

Movie Rating:

PG-13

Runtime:

1h 16m

Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker (2000) - Vertical Movie Poster

Synopsis:

In Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker, Gotham City faces a new threat as the notorious Joker returns, causing chaos and destruction. Terry McGinnis, the new Batman, must uncover the mystery behind the Joker's reappearance. With the guidance of an older Bruce Wayne, Terry dives into the dark past of the original Batman and his encounters with the Joker. As Terry battles the Joker's gang, he discovers secrets that link the villain to Bruce's past. The movie is filled with action-packed sequences as Terry uses his skills and advanced technology to confront the Joker and protect Gotham. The story unfolds with twists and turns, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as Terry races against time to stop the Joker's sinister plans.

IMDb
7.8
Rotten Tomatoes
100.00%
Metacritic

Where To Watch: Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker

Parental Feedback

Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker, released in 2000, is an animated action-adventure film that appeals to teens with its PG-13 rating. The movie is set in a futuristic Gotham City and follows the new Batman, Terry McGinnis, as he faces off against the resurrected Joker. The film is generally well-received by parents for its engaging storyline and mature themes, though some express concerns about its intense scenes and darker tone.

Why Teens Should Watch Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker

The movie is praised for its compelling narrative and character development.

  • Highlights the importance of responsibility and legacy.
  • Features a strong character arc for Terry McGinnis as he grows into his role as Batman.
  • Offers visually striking animation and action sequences that captivate teens.
  • Explores complex themes of identity and redemption.

Why Teens Shouldn’t Watch Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker

Some parents are concerned about the film's darker elements and intense scenes.

  • Contains themes of violence and revenge that may be challenging for some viewers.
  • Includes a particularly intense scene involving the Joker that could be unsettling.
  • The film's darker tone and complex plot may be confusing for younger teens.

Verdict: Teen-Approved

Verdict: Teen-Approved
Most parents say this one is a safe and smart choice for teens because it handles complex themes with a mature tone.

What Parents Should Know About Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker

Question Answer
Does this movie explore topics that require emotional maturity or guidance? The film explores themes of identity, legacy, and redemption, often through intense and dramatic scenes.
Does this movie portray risky behaviors that go unchecked or without consequences? There are scenes of violence and revenge, but these actions are ultimately shown to have serious consequences.
Does the main character show growth or learning across the story? Terry McGinnis evolves from a reluctant hero to a confident Batman, learning the importance of responsibility and courage.
Are gender roles, relationships, or family dynamics portrayed in thoughtful or outdated ways? The film portrays complex family dynamics and relationships, particularly between Terry and his mentor, Bruce Wayne.
Will this movie prompt important conversations with my teen? The film's exploration of identity and legacy can lead to discussions about personal growth and responsibility.

The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback

Parents generally appreciate Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker for its engaging story and mature themes, which offer a deeper narrative than typical animated films. While the darker tone and intense scenes may not be suitable for all teens, those who are mature enough can find value in its exploration of identity and responsibility. Parental guidance can enhance the viewing experience by facilitating discussions on the film's complex themes. For those seeking similar content, the Batman: The Animated Series offers a more classic take on the Dark Knight's adventures.

Official Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker Trailer

The Core Values Learned From Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker

Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker's most common core values include Courage, Determination, and Responsibility. Teens watching this movie can see how Terry, the new Batman, shows tremendous courage by stepping up to battle the notorious Joker. Despite the danger and challenges, Terry is determined to protect Gotham City. He knows it's his responsibility to face these threats, even when things get tough. This movie helps show how Being brave and determined can make a big difference in Standing up for what's right.

One powerful scene showing these values is when Terry faces the Joker, knowing it won't be easy. His courage shines through as he fights against the odds to keep his city safe. This isn't just about being tough, but also about staying determined even when things seem impossible. Terry takes his responsibility seriously, using his advanced Batman gear and skills taught by Bruce Wayne to make sure the Joker's plans don't succeed. For teens, seeing Terry's courage in action can be truly inspiring.

Other Core Values Explored: Friendship | Loyalty | Standing up for what's right | Teamwork | Trust

The 5 Biggest Lessons Learned From Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker

Accepting Your Identity: In the movie, Terry McGinnis, as the new Batman, learns to embrace his role despite the shadow of his predecessor, proving that accepting who you are is crucial in rising to any challenge.

Being True to Yourself: Throughout the movie, Terry remains steadfast to his values and instincts, demonstrating the importance of maintaining personal integrity even when others around you might doubt your abilities.

Facing Fears Head-On: Terry confronts the re-emergence of the Joker, tackling his fears and the daunting task without backing down, showing viewers that courage often means facing your fears directly.

Learning from Mistakes: With guidance from Bruce Wayne, Terry learns from both his and Batman's past mistakes, highlighting that understanding and acknowledging errors can lead to personal growth and better decision-making.

Trusting Intuition: As Terry navigates the chaos caused by the Joker, he frequently relies on his gut instincts, illustrating how trusting your intuition can be a powerful tool in successfully solving problems.

Other Lessons Learned: Choosing Right Over Easy | Doing What's Right | Never Giving Up | Owning Your Mistakes | Supporting Your Friends | Using Talents Responsibly | Working as a Team

Why Kids Love Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker

In the fast-paced world of Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker, teens are swept into a futuristic Gotham City alive with action and mystery. The movie thrills with its high-tech gadgets, where Batman's suit is packed with amazing features like invisibility and flight. A sleek, futuristic cityscape becomes the backdrop for epic battles as the new Batman, Terry McGinnis, takes on the re-emerging Joker and his chaotic crew. Teen audiences are on the edge of their seats as Terry navigates cool high-tech vehicles and faces secret missions, making each moment an electrifying spectacle of courage and determination. Solving the mystery woven through Gotham's dark alleys adds a layer of excitement, inviting viewers to predict what's coming next and catching them off guard with surprises around every corner.

The lure of superhero antics doesn't stop there. Teen viewers love watching Terry's martial arts moves as he goes toe-to-toe with the Joker’s gang, turning each conflict into a jaw-dropping showdown. The epic battles are intense, but it's Batman's clever gadgets and strategic thinking that keep teens hooked. Cool scenes explode with energy as Terry finds himself in gravity-defying chases, using advanced technology to outsmart enemies and prove himself as Gotham's protector. The feeling of 'being the hero' resonates deeply, with every fight scene emphasizing bravery in the face of danger. Teamwork with Bruce Wayne adds another dynamic layer, as they join forces to outwit the Joker's cunning schemes, making each victory savored and celebrated, proving once more that Batman’s legacy is a thrill to watch.