Batman Domination
by Phil Perich for the Legends of DC Blog
Lego Batman was the number one movie this weekend beating the Fifty Shades of Grey sequel, Fifty Shades Darker. While this was not a surprise to most people, why is it true? Why is Batman in any form of media so popular? Even a movie of a toy version of the caped crusader dominates the box office.
He Could Be Anyone
Part of the appeal of Batman as a character is that most people see him as a very relatable character. He’s not an alien from another planet, he doesn't have super speed, an alien power ring, or any super powers at all. Batman’s arsenal includes years of training in martial arts, detective studies and any other skills he thought he’d need in his mission. Even with his vast fortune, incredible drive, and the cool arsenal of gadgets, people just seem to gravitate toward him, thinking “With a little time, money, and work, I could be a Batman or Batwoman”!
He’s Very Well Known
Not only has Batman been around for 78 years, He’s appeared in multiple forms of different media almost since the beginning. From comics, movies, cartoons, an iconic TV show from the 1960s and more. Unlike most superheroes, most of the Earth’s population, including your parents, grandparents, and the population of most countries know Bruce Wayne and his alter ego.
He’s Comfortable In Any Environment
Another strength of the Batman character is that he can fit into just about any type of fiction story and it doesn't seem strange. Detective stories or crime dramas where he faces normal everyday criminals, battling super villains, or saving the planet from otherworldly or other-dimensional threat with the Justice League, Batman is a hero for any time or situation.
He Has the Most Toys, He Wins!
And c’mon, who wouldn’t want to have the cool gadgets, vehicles and equipment that Batman uses? Between the grapple guns, smoke bombs, exploding batarangs, and everything else in his utility belt, how much fun would you have as Batman. And that doesn’t even take into account the cool costumes and vehicles!
So know you know why Batman is one of my favorite all time characters. What do you aspect/version of Batman do YOU like best? Let’s chat!
nightwingpdp@gmail.com or beforethebat@gmail.com
@Nightwingpdp @BeforetheBatPod & @NIghtwingDC on Twitter.
You can hear me and my friends discuss all things Batman on the Before the Bat podcast and all things DC on the Legends of DC (@LegendsOfDCPod) and Channel 52 podcasts (@channel52pod). I also write another blog, the True Believers Blog, on all things Marvel. You can find all of my podcasts and blogs and those of others at www.southgatemediagroup.com and all of my creative endeavors at www.philperich.wordpress.com.