We all know and agree as to the identity of the real Batgirl, and all of us know that Bane is much more of a complex character than merely a grunting strong-arm for Poison Ivy. I have to make a pitch for Commissioner Gordon. What happened to the dignified man we all know and love? I'll tell you, he went to "camp." Finally, when was the last time Batman and Robin made a public appearance? Bad Schumacher, bad!!!!

On the other hand, the movie was quite strong in certain character developments. We saw Bruce Wayne as the millionaire playboy often depicted in the comics. This was far from the brooding character played out in the first Batman movie (first, not counting the one made in 1966). It was more in tune with the Bruce we know in "Batman and Robin Adventures," and even in other books to a certain degree. We should remember that Bruce is suppose to be a little adle-headed, and very public. In fact, Bruce realized a change in this aspect of his persona in the comics, and has taken deliberate steps to regain this facade.

Bruce's relationship with Alfred was very well played out in the movie. We saw glimpses of the closeness between the two of them. It was touching to see that Bruce could actually show his true feelings to Alfred. It was also a relief to see that it wasn't too late before Bruce did this.

The relationship between Bruce and Dick was also well done. It was reminiscent of the "Prodigal" storyline that ran through the Bat-books. We saw a frustrated and disgruntled Dick, who was looking to strike out on his own (even before Poison Ivy). The books still don't have them completely reconciling their feelings toward and about each other. It seems that this movie has done just that. What a surprise, a movie was able to facilitate the resolution of this conflict quickly and realistically whereas the comic books are still fighting through it. I don't look for quick and easy solutions to any problems within the realm of comics since it usually comes across as being contrived: however, it was nice to see it happen here.

I don't know why, but I found the teamwork between Robin and Batgirl very appealing. This is not because the action was done well, actually it wasn't much more than a lot of sliding and falling, but there was a chemistry between them. It might be because of the Batman and Robin Adventures and the latest Batman Chronicles (written by D. Grayson), depicting the two of them working together. I believe that it is this same chemistry that causes many readers to want to see Robin/Tim Drake team up with Spoiler. Two energetic, upbeat, young people fighting together against terrible odds. It might also be the Dick Grayson factor.

As for Batgirl in her own right, one would have to wonder if this beginning is meant to have her solo, ala Huntress; teammate to Robin; or new "Robin" to Batman if Dick becomes Nightwing. Ever since Frank Miller wrote "Dark Knight Returns," the various realities within the DC universe have seen many different female Robins. Will Batgirl fill this role in the movies? The stage is set for just that possibility.

Poison Ivy had her moments on the silver screen. Her sexuality pervaded the scenes as well as they do in the panels of the books. Her schemes to control the earth, while outlandish; were right in line with what we have always been used to.

I was most impressed, and in the next moment rolled my eyes at Mr. Freeze. His comical references to the cold were only outdone by his ever present frozen food. I hated that. Mr. Freeze is one of the most tragic of the Batman villains. He was driven to hate and vengeance by the circumstances surrounding the death of his wife (death in the comics that is). There was an "Batman Adventures" comic annual that is a great Mr. Freeze story, and gives the reader real insight into his motivation. Arnold, when not yucking it up with the cold jokes, effectively showed the sadness that is essential in the Freeze character.

All in all, Ivy and Freeze were better depicted many other Batman movie villains. Bane was a waste. His character was merely a vehicle to slip in another "name." The movie would have done better having the Baffler (of Robin fame), being Ivy's henchman. And finally, who was the mad scientist? If that wasn't an attempt at paying homage to the campy characters of the Batman TV show, then I don't know what is.

Where should the movies head after this? They are about as campy as they should get. Any more so and they will mirror the 1960's TV series almost exactly. That, I fear would be a terrible injustice to the characters. The TV show was entertaining, but caused many years of scorn to be felt toward the Batman universe. A movement back toward a darker story would be appropriate. I don't think that one such as the first Batman movie (my personal favorite), could be pulled off in the next show because this one was so lighthearted. It could be close, but not as extreme. I remember when the first Batman movie hit the screen. People didn't like it because it wasn't like the comics, nor was it like the fun loving TV show they remembered. As we all know, that movie is often known as the best of the movies.

The reader may be asking, "Is this is the same writer who just two articles ago, bashed Hollywood for taking quality characters in comics, and destroying them in their own feeble attempts at art and entertainment?" Yes it is, and I still feel the same way; however, after having a nice heart to heart chat with Derek (our illustrious president), he blackmailed me into writing this article. He said that if I didn't write an article saying the things you've read above, he would send documentation to the FBI implying that I was the person in the grassy knoll. Actors never should be made president of anything. It causes nothing but trouble . Truthfully, I think that the comics should remain on the pages of books, but since that isn't going to happen we might as well pay our money and take our chances.