Better Batman

Chris McKay – best known for his work on the Robot Chicken television series – helms only his second ever film from a script supplied by no fewer than five writers.

Perhaps due to so many fingers being in the storyline pie, there’s a manic sense to proceedings as just about every Batman character imaginable – and many from DC’s entire stable – are wheeled out with reckless abandon.

Like the Lego Movie, there are numerous surprise appearances too in a colossal roll call of names that would make even a Marvel teamup flick pale in comparison.

Arnett is perfect for the shifts between light and dark in his Batman’s story and gets the balance right between self-parody and cowltipping respect for the iconic hero.

He also has a blast re-teaming with his old Arrested Development buddy Cera in the likeable Batman and Robin bond fans have been desperate to see for decades.

An eclectic voice ensemble includes Ralph Fiennes (Alfred), Rosario Dawson (Batgirl), Zach Galifianakis ( Joker) and even Mariah Carey (Mayor McCaskill), while Billy Dee Williams finally gets to play Two-Face after missing out on the role back in the 90s.

There’s far too much going on – particularly visually – to take in on first viewing, and I’m sure repeat visits will unearth multiple Easter eggs.

Not quite the animated classic many anticipated, then, but Lego have still created one of Batman’s best cinematic romps.

I hope DC are taking notes for their problematic live-action production.