Batman: Gotham Knight captured a good combination of the original Batman animated series (in the early 90s) with the dramatic content of Batman Begins story. The movie bridges the gap amazingly well for what we will see in the Dark Knight. Gotham Knight introduces what I believe as two new detectives who will be in the new Dark Knight Movie(50/50 chance they will be in the Dark Knight movie). The movie is good but the Dark Knight Movie will always be better we know it will so with that in mind lets not judge it by that. But I do say that the emotional drama of Gotham Knight will fill in the blank between the two movies in a satisfying way.
As a nod to the Original Batman Animated series Kevin Conroy returns as the voice of the Dark Knight. This voice is very fitting reminding teens of the original Batman Series in the 90s. But It would have been interesting to hear Christian Bale do the Voice (if only right?)! What the second segment "Crossfire" will reveal a interesting twist to what has happened to the Narrows. Giving audiences a glimpse of what to expect in the new Movie the Dark Knight. Along with the appearance of Lucas Fox and some really cool gadgets in the third segment "Fieldtest". The stylized action is awesome throughout the film. It will really remind me of Batman Begins, the Animatrix and for younger ones Samurai Jack.
This film reminds me of Vantage Point because of the whole separation of the stories withing the movie. I like that concept of this film. But even though the stories are separated they are all connected amazingly well in each of there own unique ways. It's almost like it was done by one director to some degree. Even though they were animated by 6 different Japanese Directors. I would have to say that this film has it's own unique style(s). While at the same time compelling the viewer in the sense of the realism of Batman Begins because no one version of the film of Gotham Night will convey the world of the Dark Knight in it's entirety.
Each astonishing concept/segment brings new depth and color to the Batman Begins world. And makes me joyful to see the New movie the Dark Knight.
People who love anime will and should love this. Such as the Animatrix but better! But for those not familiar with the concept you need to realize this film is PG-13 so there is a lot of Blood in certain parts (children may get grossed out by the realism or exaggeration of situations) that may not be suitable for young children. Also there is also a few cuss words such as SOB.
Overall I feel this was a great American/Japanese anime collaboration. But it falls just a little short for what we want in the Batman Begins/Dark Knight world. But will saturate you appetite for the new movie.
I give Batman Begins a 5.0 out of 5.0 While this film Gotham Knight gets a 4.5 out of 5.0 After watching this I hope they bridge the gap for The Dark Knight and the next film with another installment of this Anime styled Cartoon. I want more!