The Best Batman Film No One Saw
3. The Definitive Batman
When a character's been through so many shifts, moods and changes as Batman, it's difficult to hone in on one 'definitive' portrayal. He's not lacking in iconic depictions, that much is true, but in gaging his most definitive version, there are certain elements that must be quantified. BTAS, while very much a dark depiction of Batman, is almost all-encompassing in its approach, conveying a gothic aesthetic and atmosphere with the intent of reaching a plethora of different audiences. That ultimately makes for a more heterogenous world, and in divesting from narrow interpretations of the character, you're left with a version of Batman that can truly be called definitive.
Being a continuation of that series, Mask of the Phantasm excels every bit as much in its world building. This was a Gotham sculpted out of black paper, as timeless in its vibe as it was menacing in its appearance. But the difference here is that the city actually evolves, with flashbacks of Bruce's former flame Andrea Beaumont taking place in an optimistic, decidedly sunnier city, as opposed to the present day, where those dark inflections are laid bare for all to see. Gotham's transition from the 'City of Tomorrow' to a crime ridden metropolis actually mirrors Bruce's own journey to becoming the Dark Knight, and in fleshing out the locale's personality, Phantasm should be considered essential viewing.
More important, of course, is the film's story, which encapsulates all the tragedy, action and adventure of the animated series itself but with a grander scope. Centred around Batman as he encounters the Phantasm, a vigilante who - unlike the Dark Knight - has no qualms with killing criminals, the film brings together Batman, Joker and the mob together in a particularly satisfying manner. There's more to the spectre's activity than meets the eye however, and as Bruce's past begins to collide with his present, a devastating revelation leaves the Caped Crusader with the biggest challenge of his crimefighting career.
To disclose more would be to ruin the film's mystery (an essential component of any good Bat-tale), but there are other ways to convey Mask of the Phantasm's greatness. One such way would be to mention Shirley Walker's incredible score, and while names like Danny Elfman and Hans Zimmer are both revered amongst the Bat-faithful, Walker's is one that continues to elude the spotlight. Her work on BTAS and this particular feature make for some of Batman's most haunting compositions, and it's a major tragedy she wasn't able to compose more, with Walker having sadly passed away in 2006.
All of these elements coalesce to create the authoritative Bat-film, an impression that should've been made apparent upon its original release, had it been marketed properly.