Batman: Mask of the Phantasm
Feature Film
It’s the crown jewel of the Batman the Animated Series run, the feature film Batman: Mask of the Phantasm. It’s one of the best Batman features ever made and at the time of its release in 1993, was the best Batman film to exist. It was made on a budget of $6 million and was intended as a direct to video movie. There are many theories why it was changed to a theatrical release but the main reason would have to be how well the film came out. The studio saw dollar signs after how great the story and animation of the final product came out.
The film had a rushed marketing and ultimately failed at the box office, only earning $5.6 million. Since it was the 1990s that doesn’t translate to failure for a feature film though. The theatrical release served as a tremendous advertisement for the film and it skyrocketed in video and rental sales. The film turned a profit in the home video market but initial research has failed to generate information on the sales totals.
The film explores Batman’s first year as a crime fighter and how he almost gives it all up for love. It has a powerhouse of voice talent that you can look up on your own. Just know the voice acting is beyond superb and takes animated films to another stratosphere. Shirley Walker’s film score is mesmerizing. The film stands on its own without the show but fits the series like a glove. The bitter ending is probably the bleakest of all the Batman films. While other DCAU Batman movies play out like extended episodes, this is a true film. An absolute can’t miss.
Written by
Joseph Ammendolea
Owner/President
“I Like To Play With Toys” Productions®
ILikeToPlayWithToysProductions@Yahoo.com