DC Comics hugely popular character of Batman made his first appearance in 1939. His appeal to audiences was immediately obvious and the character was given his own magazine the following year. Unique amongst superheroes, Bruce Wayne’s bat-inspired alter ego possesses no super-powers, instead relying on his superior intellect, martial arts skills and a burning desire to avenge his parents’ murders.
Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of Batman is his back-story. Bruce Wayne is the only child of billionaire parents and heir to the Wayne Enterprises fortune. On their way home from an evening out, the family are cornered by an armed, masked mugger and after a bungled struggle, only Bruce is left alive. Left to a lonely existence being brought up by staff, Bruce grows increasingly vengeful, ultimately using his vast wealth to rid Gotham City of its many criminals.
If being the poor little rich kid could have potentially alienated audiences from Bruce Wayne, his personal tragedy and vulnerability endear him to us. Faced with every child’s worst nightmare, the loss of his parents, Bruce channels his frustrations in the most resourceful way imaginable. This empowerment gives him a universal appeal and we can’t help but root for the moody caped crusader as he marauds around Gotham.
Batman’s instant popularity quickly led to the first of many ranges of merchandise. Alongside other comic superheroes, DC brought out collectable Batman cards and children’s toys. These classic toys remain very collectable with more now in the hands of collectors rather than being played with by children. The hugely successful recent film adaptations of Batman have cemented the character in the affections of new audiences. Always popular amongst young children, The Dark Night allowed Batman to grow up again.
As other media formats have developed, most notably gaming, the Batman franchise enjoys continued success. Merchandising opportunities for Batman are now found everywhere, from the big budget games for Xbox or Playstation to online casinos or mobile apps. Those new to these sites can use their welcome bonus on slot machine games. Earlier in 2016, film audiences were treated the spectacle of Batman vs. Superman. It was a surprise battle between two good guys who, riled by propaganda, both believe they are fighting the good fight. The ending is not one to be spoiled here but that Batman, a mere mortal, could believably attempt to challenge the alien super powers of Superman is testament to our caped crusader.
Batman looks set to continue riding the wave of this latest superhero renaissance. Original animated film The Killing Joke has recently been remade with Batman voiced by Kevin Conroy and The Joker Voiced by Star Wars’ very own Luke Skywalker, Mark Hamill. The animation looks set to be a hit, promising to explore new areas of Batman’s character. Also on the cusp of release is Suicide Squad which brings Batman face to face with many old foes from Arkham Asylum. The Bat-Signal looks set to shine brightly for many more years to come.
