Batman: The Killing Joke

The original, award-winning 1988 graphic novel Batman: The Killing Joke, written by comic book legend Alan Moore, became a signature chapter in the Batman comic book storyline for several reasons, including its exploration of the complicated relationship between Batman and The Joker, the addition of a human element to the origin story of the iconic supervillain, and the inclusion of a sadistic plot to break the spirit and the moral character of Commissioner Gordon involving the brutal abuse of his daughter Barbara (formerly Batgirl). Moore's story is faithfully brought to the screen in this animated original film that features the voices of Kevin Conroy as Batman and Mark Hamill as The Joker. The original graphic novel is a short work with only a minimal appearance by Barbara, so scriptwriter Brian Azzarello (a respected comic book artist in his own right) wrote a half-hour prologue that explores Batgirl's retirement from crime fighting. While it helps Barbara move from plot device to full-fledged character, it also adds a pointless sexual affair with Batman that has no corollary in the comic books. The first R-rated feature in the DC Universe animated series, this is a strong optional purchase. (S. Axmaker)