As I scrolled through the list of conceptually disturbing Tim Burton movies, I realized I had already seen a great amount.  So, my selection was narrowed down to Corpse Bride, Beetle Juice, (Big Fish), and Batman.  I chose Batman because I felt left out for never having seen any version before.  Although at first I was slightly confused, the bits and pieces of Batman knowledge I had picked up on throughout my lifetime started to fit together as the movie progressed.  I think I actually enjoyed it overall. 

Burton uses a series of parallel events that reflect vital aspects of Batman's life.  The movie opens with a young boy and his parents finding their way through the crime-filled streets of Gotham City.  When they find themselves in a dark alley, the boy's father is beaten by some thieves who then steal his money as they hold the boy's mother at gunpoint. This scene represents the Joker murdering Batman's parents in the old hotel when he was a boy.  This complete connection takes the duration of nearly the entire film to make. After the scene with the boy, Batman visits the hotel and places two roses on the ground in honor of his parents, and even later the Joker states that he killed Batman's parents.  

Another visual tool that Burton uses to portray the story in a deeply critical way is the use of color and lighting.  Almost every scene, character, and location throughout the movie are darkly colored or darkly lit.  This reflects off of all of the crime and sin that fills Gotham city.  The film's only pop of color is the green and purple clothing of the Joker.  Although I was extremely creeped out, Nicholson does an excellent job at portraying the Joker's truly intense character.

Now I feel that it is necessary for me to find time to watch the other Batman movies to really see which one is best. I enjoyed this version of Batman...but then again I have nothing to compare it to. I give it a 7/10.