This CGI-animated feature film pushes the limits of marketing, being a movie spin-off of a video game spin-off of a toy spin-off of a superhero-comics spin-off. Based most directly on the LEGO/DC Comics video game franchise, the story takes place in a digitally-animated version of the familiar Gotham City, where everything is based on LEGO designs and concepts, right down to the Fisher Price-looking iconic characters. Presidential contender Lex Luthor unwisely decides to bust Joker out of Arkham Asylum (additional Gotham villains—or rather, their toy likenesses—make guest appearances) on the eve of election, in order to show off some new ultimate weapons in a joint attack against Batman, Robin, and Superman. Ultimately, the entire Justice League appears, and while the tale boasts at least one really good plot twist, this still feels like a super-commercial for LEGO toys (and/or related video games). For grownup fans there is an amusing portrayal of a surprisingly grumpy Batman, ever ticked that he must be rescued from time to time by Superman. Extras include a featurette on Batman, a trio of DC Comics TV cartoons, and winning shorts from a LEGO/DC Comics superhero stop-motion animation contest. A strong optional purchase. Aud: P. (C. Cassady)
LEGO Batman: The Movie—DC Superheroes Unite
(2013) 71 min. DVD: $19.98, Blu-ray/DVD Combo: $24.98. Warner Home Video (avail. from most distributors). Volume 28, Issue 5
LEGO Batman: The Movie—DC Superheroes Unite
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