Third part of the first Batman film series was marked by the departure of celebrated director Tim Burton and actor Michael Keaton. Decision was partly motivated with Warner Bros. desire to avoid Gothic style that marked previous two films and make new Batman adventure more light-hearted and family-friendly. Because of that Keaton's neurotic Batman was replaced by version played by physically attractive Val Kilmer; Batman also received partner in the form of youthful Robin (played by Chris O'Donnell) and, finally, direction was taken by Joel Schumacher, known for some occasionally dark, but often teen-oriented films. The plot also continued with the formula of Batman having to deal with two instead of two supervillains – in this case, Two-Face (played by Tommy Lee Jones) and Riddler (played by Jim Carrey at the zenith of his popularity). Large amounts of money were invested in the sights and sounds, that include some CGI effects rather impressive for its time and pop soundtrack that includes U2 song. The script is rather weak and characters aren't particularly memorable, but Batman Forever somehow works as adequate, albeit forgettable Hollywood summer blockbuster.
RATING: 5/10
