Batman: Gotham by Gaslight
Batman: Gotham by Gaslight (2018) is an intriguing “Elseworlds” animated adaptation that reimagines the Dark Knight in a Victorian-era Gotham, facing off against a Jack the Ripper-style killer. The film benefits from a unique aesthetic and a darker, more atmospheric tone than many other animated Batman films, giving fans something visually distinct. However, its narrative execution feels rushed, and character development is shallow, leaving the story less impactful than it could have been.
The first part of the film establishes Gotham’s grim, fog-laden streets and introduces Bruce Wayne’s mission to confront the Ripper, exploring his detective skills in a period setting. The middle section moves quickly through the investigation, highlighting Batman’s intellect and combat prowess while juggling multiple side plots that sometimes feel underdeveloped. Though the film captures the suspense and mystery of a 19th-century crime story, the pacing issues and limited emotional depth make it difficult to fully invest in the stakes.
Overall, Gotham by Gaslight is a moderately interesting experiment in reimagining Batman, offering strong visuals and a fresh setting. While it succeeds as a stylistic curiosity for fans, the shallow character work and rushed narrative prevent it from standing out as a truly memorable Batman film. It’s watchable but ultimately forgettable.