Other Releases Available:

Releases Reviewed:

If you read the Return of the Joker review you might remember that there are two versions of the movie. When deciding on which release to get you'll need to keep that in mind along with the various format and combo options.

This is the only Batman Beyond release offered on Blu. On regular DVD are the edited PG and the uncut PG13 versions. There is a 2 pack with Mystery of the Batwoman, another with The Batman Vs. Dracula, and a 3 pack box set.

This movie is not listed as being a part of the Batman Beyond series box set.

The Original Uncut Version is the PG13 edit and is a single disc DVD offering.

Video:

1.66 NA widescreen: While it was filmed at 1.33 it was framed for widescreen so this is how it was intended to be seen.. The image is fairly clean although it sounds like the Blu version would be a noticeable upgrade. There is a little bit of trash, but it's almost unnoticeable unless you're really watching for it. Unfortunately the ratio presentation is non-anamorphic so it will not fill a widescreen TV (black bars appear on all sides of the image).

Audio:

5.1 Dolby: Surround sound surprised me a little since I only expected 2.0. The sound is clean and strong with fair surround sound immersion. It's not highly impressive, but it's not bad at all. There seems to be surprisingly little bass considering the series episodes sound pretty solid in that regard.

Packaging:

It's a pretty typical DVD. The original package was one of those awful cardboard cases though I believe that has been phased out for the typical plastic case.

While the cardboard version does not come with an insert there is a chapters list on the inside flap.

The interface is unremarkable but colorful featuring the cover art, some music clips, and some original graphics.

Extras:

-Commentary: The commentary is by the creators and writers. It’s very informative. I’ve enjoyed all the commentaries I’ve heard these guys do.

-Animatics: The animatics are more like a storyboard slideshow with music and some voices. There are 3 scenes shown this way.

-Behind the Scenes: The behind the scenes feature is basically a long promo with very little new information. There are a few good moments with the acting and musical talent, but it could have been better.

-Character Files: The character files are animated so you have to go along with its pace and read quickly. It’s an OK feature if you’re new to Batman Beyond, but I think most long-time fans will find it kind of boring. There’s not really any new info here.

-Deleted Scene: There is a deleted scene in the form of a storyboard. The art is pretty basic, but you do get some voice acting with it.

-Trivia Game: The trivia section is a game, but there is no final score or reward for winning, just get the questions right or don’t.

-Music Video: One of the best features is a music video: Crash by Mephisto Odyssey and Static X. The song is OK, but the imagery is what I like. They are performing in the Batcave.

-Trailer: A typical trailer.

-Previews: Check out some other titles.

Other Editions:

Blu:

The Blu includes the uncut version of the movie. You may be able to get this with or without a DVD copy. The video is 1.33 (the TV standard ratio). Here's your alternative to the widescreen. This is the original filming ratio even though it was framed for a widescreen presentation. It is 1080p and is said to look quite good. The Audio is 5.1 DTS HD surround sound. Reviews suggest that the sound is strong and solid. It appears to have exactly the same extras as the DVD which I detailed above.

PG DVD:

While I have seen both the PG and PG13 versions myself I don't have the PG version available for side-by-side comparison. I didn't notice any differences between them whatsoever aside from the movie itself (covered in the review if you want more details).

Combos:

The DVD movie combo packs contain the edited PG version according to comments I've read so don't get them if you want the uncut version. The 3 pack is a 3-disc package which means it probably includes the full version of the release, extras and all.

I didn't see a listing for the extras with Mystery of the Batwoman but would be surprised if it didn't contain the full compliment as these Warner 2 packs tend to include the full release of each film on either side of a double-sided disc.

The pack with The Batman vs. Dracula definitely includes all extras for both releases, but I don't know if Return of the Joker is the uncut version or not (my guess would be not since the others aren't).

Final Thoughts:

The rating you prefer is the main decision point here since there is little if any difference in the DVD design or extras. If you want the PG version that is going to rule out the Blu; if you want uncut then avoid the combo packs. It sounds like the quality upgrade is worth a little extra cash for the Blu.