Tuesday, August 13, 2019

I saw Batman v Hush...


"Batman: Hush" is DC/WB's latest, animated (aimed for home viewing) effort. It's based on Joseph Loeb/Jim Lee/Scott Williams' graphic series, adapted by Ernie Altbacher (who injects plot twists) and directed by Justin Copeland. 


It introduces a swathed-faced villain who intends to destroy Bruce Wayne's life and reputation by trampling on Batman's crime-fighting legacy. In the process, Hush hordes the ever tempting, eternal Lazarus flames. The story's novelty is deciphering the villain's identity and the cause of his crusade. In other words, what's the bastard's secret (is he an antagonist we already know) and why is he so hush-hush about it? (Shades of "Mask of the Phantasm", you say? Maybe just maybe...)


Other villains appear throughout the eerie exploit as Hush does his dirty deeds (and in some instances, toys with them to achieve his goal), which include the Riddler, Bane (a Hush forerunner one could argue), the Scarecrow; the Joker; Harley Quinn; Clayface; Lex Luthor; Lady Shiva (quite civil with the Dark Knight this time out) and Poison Ivy (who'll make one itch with her Orion Slave Girl looks and ways).  


However, Catwoman has the meatiest part, with emphasis on her strained relationship with the Caped Crusader. The legendary love/hate tit for tat defines the story as much as its Hush element. To increase that amorous angle, Selina Kyle is rendered with heightened sexiness (well drawn, that is). It's almost impossible to pull one's eyes from her.


Dick Grayson/Nightwing also influences the conflict, assisting his mentor to squash Hush's spree, though (thank goodness) without  the contention that's stained their previous reteamings. Damian Wyane, Amanda Waller, Alfred Pennyworth and Lois Lane fill the gaps, while Commissioner Gordon and Batgirl do what they can to maintain the "peace"; it's always nice to see father and daughter on crime-fighting sprees.

Superman makes an appearance, as well, albeit tricked into taking a stand against his Gotham pal (boo!). On the possible plus side, their clash holds its own with "Batman v Superman'"s fierce finale, even if stationed much earlier in the plot.


I wouldn't put "Hush" in the same avant-garde category as "Gotham by Gaslight" or "Batman Ninja". It's more straightforward than those and more on par with the "Son of Batman" submissions. That still categorizes it as quality entertainment.  


On that note, I believe "Hush'"s content is worthy of a live-action translation. Who knows? With more mega-buck Batman flicks on the horizon, it wouldn't be surprising if "Hush" (or various parts of it) affected them. 

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