Last night, I watched Batman: Under the Red Hood, a 2010 direct-to-video film based on the two DC Comic Batman storylines “A Death in the Family” and “Under the Hood“. The film is the eighth in the DC Universe Animated Original Movies. It was released on July 27, 2010. The film begins with the death of Jason Todd, the 2nd Robin, at the hands of the Joker. The film flash-forwards five years to the present day in Gotham, and the arrival of Red Hood.
Batman faces his ultimate challenge as the mysterious Red Hood takes Gotham City by firestorm. One part vigilante, one part criminal kingpin, Red Hood begins cleaning up Gotham with the efficiency of Batman, but without following the same ethical code. Killing is an option. And when the Joker falls in the balance between the two, hard truths are revealed and old wounds are reopened.
Excellent movie, but not one for children. It’s PG-13, with violent themes not appropriate for young children. I found Jason Todd’s torture and death to be especially brutal. The voice acting is good, with new actors stepping in, such as Bruce Greenwood as Batman/Bruce Wayne. newcomer Jensen Ackles as Red Hood (excellent!), and Neil Patrick Harris as Nightwing. Although I’m normally a fan of John Di Maggio, I didn’t like him here as the Joker. In case you were interested, Rogue’s Gallery favorites Black Mask and Riddler also make appearances, but I liked seeing Nightwing the best.
Did I mention Jason Todd’s death was brutal? I genuinely felt bad.
Batman: Under the Red Hood (2010)