He’s presented as a hero by his movement he’s bold, strong, fearless and brave, he continues to fight evil, even when he himself is suspected of being a villain.
His relationship with Vicky Vale the photographer presents Batman(Bruce Wayne), as a caring, sociable person, who has found someone he feels he can trust, so much so that he shows her the ‘bat cave’. This relationship with Vicky presents Batman very well, it conveys his inner feelings. It also enhances our view of him as being concerned with other people rather than himself. A prime example of this is when Vicky has dinner at his house, and all he wants to talk about is her, and is embarrassed when Alfred his butler informs Vicky about Bruce’s childhood.
Bruce’s relationship with Alfred alone indicates his hero status, as he looks after Alfred by allowing him into his home as an equal, he doesn’t consider himself of any greater importance although he ultimately is Alfred’s employer. However, this is very ironic, as in a sense Alfred really holds Bruce together, as he has raised him since the death of his parents as a child. Alfred is the only person who originally knew of Batman’s true identity, this being, Bruce. Alfred is seen more as a friend by Bruce than an employee. Alfred’s always there to offer advice, for example whilst in the Wayne mansion, Bruce can’t decide whether to go and see Vicky, Alfred informs him that “she’s special.”
Bruce Wayne also holds parties, showing he cares for people, a characteristic of a true hero. However at these parties there are many security cameras, which convey worry, much like modern day worries, of theft, assault and betrayal. It’s through these cameras Bruce notices the Lieutenant being tipped off about a possible crime, Bruce instantly takes note of this and quickly becomes involved, as, Batman.
Batman primarily fights against evil, this is seen throughout the film, however he sees no satisfaction in harming the culprits unnecessarily. He also fights for justice and revenge, this revenge is centred with the Joker, as Bruce witnessed Jack Napier shoot his parents. We the audience don’t perceive this to be wrong.
Bruce’s environment is typically hero like, he is concealed away either in the ‘bat cave’ or in the Wayne mansion, this maintains the high level of mystery surrounding him and his true identity. Bruce mixes with highly intellectual important people, this is shown at his party.
We distinguish Jack/Joker as a villain through his appearance, he appears evil, sly and cocky, we witness this evilness and slyness when he comes into contact with Vicky. He robustly contrasts Batman’s relationship with Vicky, Vicky finds herself attracted to and intrigued by Batman, this is shown as she plans to have dinner with him, opposing to this the Joker forces himself on Vicky, he makes her feel nervous and anxious as to his motives.
The Jokers appearance is one of forcefulness , thus giving us an impression of him as a villain. He hides his disfigured face behind a mask of make-up, and usually this is emphasized by his wearing of a hat. He appears to order and boss people around into his evil way of thinking, he feels he is superior to everybody, he feels he needs power, and control. An excellent example of this being, his attacks on Gotham City, with the poisonous gas, for we see his entourage ‘open fire’, on his command.
His Movement is bold, brassy he oozes confidence. We perceive him as trying to play God, he wants to be in total command, he even quotes, “God made man in his own image.” This shows he feels he can justify his appearance and actions.
The character of the Joker always wants more than he can have, he always goes one step further. Initially we see this with his boss’s girlfriend, who Jack steals from him; this proves he wants something extra. He controls her, he makes he makes her do whatever he says. A true sign of his evilness is shown when he disfigures her face much like his own, she too must wear a mask because of it.
The Joker acts erratically he does eccentric things for somewhat unjustified and unnatural reasons. His motives as seen by the audience are of a villain, however for a period of time within the film the population of Gotham City perceive him to be the ‘good guy’, he does this cunningly, he appeals to their good nature, he throws money at them, all this of course before he tries to kill them all! We are clear the Joker seeks revenge, this being for the disfigurement of his face.
The joker is wealthy, much like Batman, his environment is one of power, for all he has ever known is importance, as before he was dropped into the acid he was the corrupt mayors, ‘right hand man’. This is another example of him wanting one step more.
Batman is unique, he is unlike other super heroes. He differs in many aspects, both physical and mental. Bruce isn’t very confident, where as you would expect a hero to be. Remarkably Batman has no special powers; he can’t fly, see through walls, or shoot lasers from his eyes, but what he does, and how he does it, is unique and that’s what makes him Batman. Batman also creates fear and unease among the community, when they see him they are weary and apprehensive, where as a hero would usually be praised and loved.
Surprisingly enough there are many compatible characteristics and features between both the Joker and Batman. They both hide behind masks, concealing their true identity, they both seek revenge for scarring incidents within the past, Batman’s being, witnessing the brutal murder of his parents, and the Jokers being dropped into the acid.
Probably the most surprising characteristic possessed by both, is their choice of women, they both choose tall blondes, who are naturally perceived as beautiful, both of these women dress to impress. Their similarity is shown when the Joker is seen to find Vicky attractive; however she doesn’t think so highly of him!
In conclusion, Batman and the Joker, are very similar, whilst also being very different, at first glance this concept may seem very hard to take in, however if we think, both possess similar characteristics and thoughts, i.e. revenge, yet they’re fighting for opposing reasons, and it’s clear to us the audience who is good and who is bad.
Batman conquers, he kills the evil villain, and I hasten to add not brutally, for Batman seeks no personal gain. Also Batman wins the girl, Vicky Vale. Batman vows to always be there for Gotham City, all they need to do is call for him. Batman continues to fight another day!!
Liam Conway
