It’s a tempting trap; to make sequels bigger and (not necessarily) better than their predecessors. Its dizzying opening sequence involving 10minutes of explosive chaos tells us THE LEGO BATMAN MOVIE is no different.
THE LEGO BATMAN MOVIE explores relationships: Family and friends, and where the lines blur between the two. It’s a sweet premise, albeit predictable. There are big changes happening in Gotham, and the solo vigilante thing just ain’t gonna cut it. Proud, self-professed loner Batman is forced to let others “in”.
After a delightfully witty voiceover to accompany the usually ignored studio logos, we are launched straight into the thick of it, with high-paced attention-grabbing action that will work a treat on the kids…and give the adults a headache.
You can’t help but marvel at the skill of the animators (we can feel proud, as Australian company Animal Logic was at the helm of animation). Though, despite my Aussie admiration, I admittedly found myself relieved when Batman retreated to the solace of Wayne Manor, and we were granted a few sweet anarchy-free moments to take a breath….After all, it was the witty dialogue and clever story of THE LEGO MOVIE that made it great, and no amount of hyped-up action can match that.
Thankfully, amid the pandemonium, there are still hints of the brilliance THE LEGO MOVIE exuded: Within the first minute they slip in a STAR WARS reference, and it’s just one in a looooooooooooooong list of clever pop culture nods. Though, as the flick is so noisy and chaotic at times, with some of the references it’s a case of blink and you’ll miss ’em.
While lacking in a catchy theme song (there’s definitely nothing in this soundtrack to rival ‘Everything is Awesome’), composer Lorne Balfe’s score is a highlight.
Having worked in the music department for THE DARK KNIGHT franchise, as well as TRANSFORMERS and IRON MAN, Balfe whips up composition worthy of a real superhero flick…then adds just the right amount of overkill to suit such comedy fare.
The great voice work of Will Arnett, Michael Cera and Ralph Fiennes is punctuated by star cameos, including Channing Tatum, Mariah Carey, Seth Green and Jemaine Clement.
Choc-a-block full of fast film references, high-paced action, beautiful animation, sarcasm and butt humour, THE LEGO BATMAN MOVIE isn’t as clever as it’s predecessor, but will be a definite hit with the kids. Given the genius of LEGO MOVE #1, I was expecting a little more…but it’s still fun.
I rate it 7 out of 10.
