In this 1993 animated feature set in the 1940s, Batman is pitted against a mysterious figure that is taking out Gotham’s most dangerous criminals and many believe Batman is responsible for three murders. The two-pack from DC Collectibles includes Batman and The Phantasm as seen in the animated film. These approximately 6” figures feature multiple points of articulation and character specific accessories. The set is pre-orderable for an October release.
Batman: Mask of the Phantasm is a 1993 American animated superhero mystery film featuring the DC Comics character Batman, and is based on the 1990s Batman: The Animated Series directed by Eric Radomski and Bruce Timm.
The original idea was to release the film as direct-to-video, but the studio decided for a theatrical release to widespread acclaim from critics, who praised the film for its animation style, dialogue and acting. However, due to the decision to release the film in theaters on short notice, it failed on the box office. The film has since found cult success and developed a cult following.
While the series has never touched Batman’s origins, Mask of the Phantasm was all about the past, and either burying it or embracing it for good or ill. The themes in the film are deep and resonant even today, especially given how the character has been handled onscreen since. Despite the presence of costumed villains and vigilantes, the movie is arguably the most realistic in terms of how the characters’ states of mind are depicted and how they deal with their incredibly sad losses.
Two Christmas' ago marked the 20th anniversary Batman: Mask of the Phantasm, a film that’s arguably its creators’ most perfect expression of their enduringly influential animated vision of DC Comics’ dark knight – a vision that many believe is the most perfect expression of Batman in any medium. While Warner Bros. has yet to announce any plans for a high definition reissue or any other offerings connected with the special occasion, the film fanatics at Mondo – purveyors of extremely fine illustrated film posters and other cinematic celebrations- decided to honor Mask of the Phantasm with an anniversary event in connection with the famous Alamo Drafthouse of Austin, Texas, where they screened the film in its original 35mm format for a sold-out house. And also, Mondo came prepared with extremely limited quantities of an original screen-printed poster, which serves as an update of the film’s original theatrical one-sheet and an homage to the aesthetic legacy of co-directors Bruce Timm and Eric Radomski’s work.
After 20 years, Batman: Mask of the Phantasm still ranks as one of the best Batman films ever. With respect to Phantasm, it's interesting that they really did have a story; more of a story than the live-action movies. The characters pause and they think and they have feelings and motivation and we get involved in it. I can't wait for the figures to come out. I'm proud to be part of the 90s generation.
Sources: Comics Alliance, Phantom City Creative, Wikipedia