The Dark Knight truly soars in animation. Several ambitious projects including Two-Face and Son of Batman have expanded and deepened this narrative line. With Batman vs. Robin, we get more than a crime fighting vigilante. Themes of family, guilt and honesty pave the way for a remarkably interactive experience.

Rendered in compelling ochre tones, the story features a war between Bruce Wayne/Batman (Jason O’Mara), the Court of Owls and a mysterious figure known as Talon (Jeremy Sisto). Meanwhile, Damian/Robin (Stuart Allan) frequently clashes with his father over what’s best for Gotham City.

Batman vs. Robin can be dark. Then again so can Harry Potter. Director Jay Oliva allows the father/son element to play into the central drama. As the wedge between them widens, Bruce worries that his son might be corrupted by the evil forces rallying against them.

My only qualm lies with the music of Frederik Wiedmann. Although his work contains style and substance, it doesn't suit Batman vs. Robin. For the gold standard, I recommend scores by Danny Elfman, Shirley Walker and Elliot Goldenthal.

Looking back at the long history of Batman, I am compelled to recognise certain achievements more than others. For instance, Adam West’s camp heroics, Tim Burton’s 1989 masterclass and Batman vs. Robin represent clear cut foundations. The latter features an amazing graphic spread, echoing yet not imitating Frank Miller’s comics. In my opinion, this direct-to-video animation feels more edifying than Christopher Nolan’s big screen trilogy. 

(Released by Warner Home Video and rated "PG-13" for intense action and violence, suggestive images and thematic elements.)