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Will Arnett (Batman) at the Batman Lego Movie screening in New York.

The Lego Batman MovieDirector: Chris McKayStarring: Will Arnett, Michael Cera, Ralph Fiennes, Zach Galifianakis, Rosario DawsonRating: ★★★

REVIEW
By EMILY BURKHARDT

The Lego Batman Movie gives a light-hearted and ridiculously fun update to the popular superhero franchise that is suitable for the whole family.

Gotham City is once again under attack from a lethal team of the city’s scariest villains, and vigilante hero Batman (voiced by Will Arnett)is left to save the day. But in order to do so, he needs to learn how to lighten up and work with the likes of Robin (Michael Cera) and his loyal butler Alfred (Ralph Fiennes).

Directed by Chris McKay, there is no denying that this eclectic world made of the famous multicoloured bricks will have people of all ages excited about their favourite comic book cronies.

However, there are an overwhelming number of cringe-worthy moments in the film. Whether they are deliberate or not is often hard to determine, as much of the narrative is designed to make fun of these Batman-related tropes.

Referencing Batman’s previous cinema reincarnations is a funny addition that gets the tone right, but the constant allusions to his rivalry with Superman and the seemingly childish relationship that emerges between himself and Alfred in one scene are significantly overplayed.

What makes this film fall especially flat at times is the irritating characterisation of protagonist Batman/Bruce Wayne. His predictable hero’s journey from apathetic and selfish to a compassionate team player is meant to make him more likeable, but this ultimately doesn't disguise his generally annoying nature.

One of the most interesting aspects of this movie is the sheer number of characters.

Although the majority of them don’t receive much screen time, there are some fun moments with franchise favourites like the Justice League and Harley Quinn. There are also some surprising cameos from other fictional villains like Voldemort from the Harry Potter series, the Daleks from Doctor Who and even Sauron from Lord of the Rings.

A copious number of villains make an appearance, but the standout character is definitely Batman’s nemesis – The Joker.

Voiced by the comedic Zach Galifianakis, his flamboyant and villainous flair combined with some vulnerable moments make him an awesome onscreen presence.

Commissioner Barbara Gordon/Batgirl shines for women among a predominantly male main cast. She is the definition of a strong, independent female and Rosario Dawson does a fantastic job of bringing her fierce and determined attitude to life.

But the most underrated character is Dick/Robin. Cera lends his charming, boyish voice to a sweet kid who has the most adorable eyes ever seen on a Lego figure. He adds some welcome comic relief and emotional complexity as a slightly naïve orphan who desperately yearns for a family.

If superheroes and supervillains aren’t necessarily your favourite thing, however, the visual effects of this film are gorgeous enough to keep you interested.

Vibrant colours and textures combine with the quirky brick format to create a space where there was always something to catch your eye, even when the dialogue becomes too choppy to handle.

Action sequences with explosions are especially beautiful with the vivid reds and oranges, while the Joker’s evil amusement park headquarters will make audiences smile with its playful pastel lights.

Lego Batman’s unpredictable soundtrack also adds a unique edge to the experience, with the opening scenes including a crazy and narcissistic outlook on Batman’s life through a silly heavy metal rap.

There is something terribly whimsical about a world made of Lego bricks, and the latest film has capitalised on this with its nostalgic tone.

Although the take-home messages of teamwork, inclusion and friendship are delivered with some degree of sincerity, it ultimately doesn’t take itself too seriously with a series of ridiculous moments guaranteed to make you either laugh or flinch.

Following the surprise success of the first Lego Movie, Warner Bros. were looking to create another winning combination in giving Batman his chance to shine in brick form.

Its questionable narrative and unique dialogue style make it hard to process at times, but it’s entertaining enough that audiences of all ages will definitely find something to enjoy.