Batman: A Death in the Family
Batman: A Death in the Family (2020) is a unique entry in the animated lineup, serving as both a companion to Under the Red Hood and a bold experiment with storytelling. Presented as a choose-your-own-adventure film, it allows viewers to decide Jason Todd’s fate in multiple branching narratives, each exploring different consequences of his tragic encounter with the Joker. This interactive format sets it apart from other Batman films, offering strong rewatch value and fresh perspectives on a classic storyline.
The branching paths highlight the emotional weight of Jason’s choices—whether he lives, dies, or takes on new identities—providing a fascinating exploration of morality, vengeance, and the fragile bond between Batman and his former Robin. While not every path carries equal depth, the overall structure feels innovative, and the animation and voice performances remain strong. Some viewers may find the experiment a bit uneven or prefer the tighter narrative of Under the Red Hood, but the novelty of making decisions adds an extra layer of engagement.
Ultimately, A Death in the Family succeeds as both an homage to the original comic’s infamous fan vote and as a daring experiment in interactive superhero storytelling. It may not replace the definitive adaptations, but it offers fans a fresh way to experience Jason Todd’s tragedy in a format no other Batman film has attempted.