Batman Forever: 30 Years

Recently, news broke of the passing of Val Kilmer. Many critics would argue that his best movies span from Top Gun to The Doors. Yet, some seem to overlook his performance as the Caped Crusader.

The Summer of 1995 saw the late Val Kilmer offer his take on the beloved DC Hero. In the third installment of the Burton-Shumaker quartet, Batman goes up against Two-Face and the Riddler. He would also take on Dick Grayson as his partner despite his strong opposition.

While Batman Forever received mixed reviews, primarily due to its poor plot, development, and flow, the film does offer some themes that can be tied into the faith.

Bat Signal

Commissioner Gordon projects his symbol in the sky as a prayer for him to intercede when crime brews in Gotham. When Batman arrives and stops the criminals, it is seen as an answer to someone’s prayers.

The bat signal can also be seen as a way to trust a higher authority. Gordon has faith in Batman just as much as the citizens of Gotham do.

Revenge Never Satisfies

When Dick Grayson (later becomes Robin) is taken under the care of Bruce Wayne, he wants to go on a mission to kill Two Face after he murdered all of his family. After rescuing him from the underworld, Grayson tells Batman of his plans to get his revenge for their deaths.

Batman/Bruce Wayne counters his idea by reminding him of the cost of vengeance. He reminds Grayson that he won’t stop but will keep going.

Know Who You Are

Batman struggled to find his true identity. He was haunted by the deaths of his parents just like Dick Grayson. Batman came to the point where he didn’t want to be Batman anymore and live a normal life.

It changed when, in a deleted scene, he discovers his true purpose by remaining Batman.

Batman Forever is campy, but it does deliver important messages of trust, faith, and knowing one’s worth.