As the Caped Crusader marks an impressive 85 years of crime-fighting, fans are being treated to some truly heroic deals on his cinematic and animated legacies. Whether you`re a purist of the Dark Knight`s earliest adventures or a connoisseur of his modern, gritty tales, a collection awaits to grace your shelf – now at prices that even Alfred Pennyworth would approve of.
Celebrating 85 Years in Ultra High Definition
The spotlight currently shines brightest on the Batman 85th Anniversary 10-Film Collection in stunning 4K Blu-ray. Originally launching last year with a formidable price tag of $205, this premium box set has now descended to an all-time low of just $80. For those keeping score, that`s approximately $8 per film, including digital versions – a remarkable entry point into Gotham`s gloomiest corners in crystal-clear resolution.
This commemorative collection isn`t just a technical upgrade; it`s a curated experience. It arrives with a vibrant slipcase and a 24-page booklet, ensuring the unboxing is almost as satisfying as the viewing. The included films represent a significant cross-section of Batman`s animated universe, ranging from critically acclaimed classics to more experimental narratives:
- Batman: Mask of the Phantasm
- Batman: Year One
- Batman: Assault on Arkham
- Batman: The Killing Joke
- Batman and Harley Quinn
- Batman: Gotham by Gaslight
- Batman: Hush
- Batman: Soul of the Dragon
- Batman: The Long Halloween
- Batman: The Doom That Came to Gotham
Highlights such as Mask of the Phantasm and Year One are often cited as essential viewing, showcasing Batman at his introspective best. Other entries, while perhaps not reaching the same hallowed heights, offer delightful diversions. Take Soul of the Dragon, which boldly re-imagines Bruce Wayne as a `70s martial arts master – a delightful romp that proves Batman`s versatility knows no bounds. Or Gotham by Gaslight, which dares to ask: what if Batman stalked the gaslit streets of Victorian London, hunting Jack the Ripper?
The 80th Anniversary Collection: A Complementary Chronicle
For those who believe more Batman is always better, the Batman 80th Anniversary 18-Film Collection (Blu-ray) remains a compelling offer at just $32, a steep drop from its $70 MSRP. This collection serves not as a replacement, but as a rich supplement to its 85th-anniversary counterpart. It packs a punch with movies not found in the newer 4K set, including the acclaimed two-part adaptation of Frank Miller`s The Dark Knight Returns, the unique anime-inspired Batman Ninja, and the stylistic anthology Batman: Gotham Knight.
Securing both collections essentially provides an almost exhaustive animated journey through Batman`s varied interpretations, ensuring no stone – or gargoyle – is left unturned.
Beyond the Box Sets: Animated Series and Live-Action Legends
The celebration extends beyond these anniversary collections, encompassing some of the most beloved animated television series and iconic live-action films. It seems the universe is aligning for fans to complete their Caped Crusader archives.
Iconic Animated Television Series
- Batman: The Complete Animated Series (Blu-ray): Now at $29 (originally $80). A definitive masterpiece, often regarded as the gold standard of Batman adaptations.
- Batman Beyond: The Complete Series (Blu-ray): Reduced to $23 (originally $55). Dive into Neo-Gotham with Terry McGinnis, Batman`s future successor.
- The Batman: The Complete 2004 Series (Blu-ray): Available for $30 (originally $70). A fresh take on the legend for a new generation.
Live-Action Cinematic & Televised Grandeur
From the gothic artistry of Tim Burton to the gritty realism of Christopher Nolan, Batman`s live-action presence is equally legendary:
- Batman 4-Film Collection (1989-1997) (4K): The Burton/Schumacher era classics, available for $39 (originally $90). Individual films from this collection are also seeing impressive discounts.
- The Dark Knight Trilogy (4K): Nolan`s critically acclaimed saga, now at $30.74 (originally $75). A masterclass in superhero filmmaking.
- The Batman (2022) (4K): Matt Reeves`s detective noir take on the character, priced at $13 (originally $34).
- The Penguin: Season 1 (Blu-ray): For those intrigued by Gotham`s criminal underworld, this new series is available for $19.49 (originally $40).
- Batman: The Complete 1966 TV Series (Blu-ray): The campy, iconic classic can be yours for $29.49 (originally $90). POW! BAM! indeed.
This surge of discounts isn`t merely a coincidence; it`s a testament to Batman`s enduring appeal across generations and formats. Whether you`re upgrading your collection to 4K or discovering a classic for the first time, these limited-time offers provide an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Gotham City.
Final Thoughts: A Hero`s Legacy, Affordably Explored
Eighty-five years is a long time for any hero to stay relevant, let alone dominate popular culture. Batman, however, continues to evolve, adapt, and captivate, proving that a well-crafted narrative and a perpetually brooding billionaire with an inexhaustible supply of gadgets never truly go out of style. These current deals offer fans a chance to own a piece of that ongoing legacy, celebrating the Dark Knight`s past, present, and perhaps even glimpsing his future, all without needing Wayne Enterprises` budget.
Callum Darby