Batman Returns

Tim Burton returns to Gotham City in Batman Returns, a sequel that trades the gothic noir of its predecessor for something darker, stranger, and deeply weird. Released in June 1992, this $80 million production grossed nearly $280 million worldwide, proving audiences wanted more of the director's twisted vision even as critics debated its tone. The film stars Michael Keaton as Bruce Wayne again, but the spotlight often shifts to the chaotic energy brought by Danny DeVito as the Penguin and Michelle Pfeiffer as Selina Kyle. The story follows a corrupt political scheme led by Max Shreck, played by Christopher Walken, who partners with the deformed Oswald Cobblepot. When Shreck attempts to silence his meek secretary Selina, she undergoes a bizarre transformation into the feral Catwoman. This trio of villains targets Batman, yet an unexpected tension develops between the new heroine and the Dark Knight. With a PG-13 rating and a runtime of just over two hours, the movie blends action and fantasy while exploring themes of corruption and double lives.[edit]