Yearns for Authenticity of Nostalgic 'Retro Batman' Anime Series
The upcoming sequel to Batman Ninja, titled Batman Ninja vs. Yakuza League, promises more silliness and fun, much like its predecessor. However, Warner Bros. Japan might have dashed my expectations with a tantalizing sneak peek - a faux opening for Go! Bat Phoenix.
This hypothetical '70s-style DC tribute recalls classics such as Science Ninja Team Gatchaman or Voltes V, featuring a catchy theme song and a dramatic launch sequence blending Batman, Red Hood, Nightwing, and Red Robin's individual vehicles into the Bat Phoenix, or basically a pumped-up Batwing.
The retro vibes are on-point. From the antique film print effect to the simplified nods to Batman Ninja designs, Dick Grayson's hair resembling a character straight outta Speed Racer or Captain Tsubasa, to the striking poses during the launch sequence – it's a heartfelt tribute to classic anime, one that surprisingly suits Batman perfectly.
The Caped Crusader's retro legacy isn't something new – not only does it echo the rekindled appreciation for the 1966 Batman television series, but it also reminds us of Jiro Kuwata's Batman manga, a swashbuckling hero inspired by the golden and silver age interpretations of Batman. No exaggerated contrast here between the Dark Knight and the tone and aesthetic, because he rhymes with it... extremely well!
Now, I'm stuck in a world where Go! Bat Phoenix isn't gracing our screens with a three-season run (but hey, who knows what James Gunn might cook up next). At least we have Batman Ninja vs. Yakuza League arriving digitally on March 18, to tide us over with a modern anime spin on the Batfamily.
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- The hypothetical '70s-style DC tribute, 'Go! Bat Phoenix', with its catchy theme song and blended Batwing design, seems to draw inspiration from classics like 'Science Ninja Team Gatchaman' or 'Voltes V', reminiscent of Jiro Kuwata's 'Batman' manga.
- Batman Ninja vs. Yakuza League might not have the retro vibe of 'Go! Bat Phoenix', but its modern anime spin on the Batfamily still promises an exciting watch, arriving digitally on March 18.
- I can't help but imagine the potential crossover between 'Go! Bat Phoenix' and IO9's trailér-frenzy over futuristic technology and ninja designs – it would definitely be a blast!
- As much as I yearn for 'Go! Bat Phoenix' to air for three seasons (even though it's just a hypothetical scenario), I'm looking forward to the metamorphosis of the Batfamily in 'Batman Ninja vs. Yakuza League', ready to whisk me away into a world of wonder and excitement.
