New Batman DVD lacks punch

Batman demand is at fever pitch – thankfully Warner Bros. knows how to strike while the iron… Batman demand is at fever pitch – thankfully Warner Bros. knows how to strike while the iron is hot, delivering the straight-to-DVD animated feature “Batman: Gotham Knight.” Without the pathos of the 1990s animated series or the grit of “The Dark Knight,” Batman’s latest animated adventure is little more than a short and forgettable grab for the wallets of insatiable fans.

The film is divided into six segments produced by different animation studios, though most bear the unmistakable influence of Japanese anime – be it in Bruce Wayne’s suddenly saucer-sized eyes, the incongruity between lip movement and spoken words or Batman’s sudden ability to move in perfect slow motion (did he learn that in his secret ninja school?).

Despite their short lengths (each feature is less than 15 minutes long), the stories are more boring than one would expect from a movie about a billionaire ninja dressed as a bat. Far more compelling are the four episodes of “Batman: The Animated Series” included as a bonus feature. Not only do these episodes have a longer running time than the 75-minute “Gotham Knight,” but artist and producer Bruce Timm’s Emmy-winning characterizations of the dark knight and his rogues gallery are more engrossing than anything seen in the feature presentation.

Other special features include a commentary on all six shorts and two documentaries, including one about Batman creator Bob Kane – a man apparently as opulent as Bruce Wayne and as enigmatic as his alter ego.

Though the special features are enticing, it’s only as satisfying as a bland entree with delectable side dishes. This one is strictly for the biggest and most desperate Bat-fanatics.