Batman: Caped Crusader Season 2 Review: The Dark Knight Is More Dangerous Than Ever

Batman: Caped Crusader is back for Season 2, and this show continues to be one of the best takes on the Dark Knight in recent years. From the very first episode, we are thrown right back into this dark, noir-driven version of Gotham. The world still feels different from the other versions of Batman we have seen, but at the same time, it feels very familiar. That is one of the biggest strengths of this show.

Hamish Linklater continues to shine as the voice of Batman and Bruce Wayne. After sitting in on the panel and fan screening at San Diego Comic-Con, I can say with confidence that Linklater really understands this character. You can hear the influence of the actors who have played Batman before him, but he also brings his own style to the role. This version of Batman feels like a true detective, but he is also much more dangerous than some of the versions we have seen before.

And let me just say this now: Batman is not holding back this season! Once you watch Episode 1, you will understand exactly what I mean. The story picks up with crime lord Rupert Thorne potentially going away for good, but Gotham is obviously not going to stay quiet for long. This season introduces new versions of some very familiar Batman villains, including the Riddler, Calendar Man, and the Mad Hatter.

What I like about this show is that these characters feel familiar without simply feeling like copies of versions we have already seen. The noir setting allows the show to put its own spin on these characters, and some of them are much more bloodthirsty than you might expect.

The relationship between Batman and the Gordon family is also explored a lot more this season. We get to see more of Batman's relationship with Barbara Gordon, and the way he uses his connection with the Gordon family to his advantage is really interesting. I don't want to say too much because I want people to experience this for themselves, but there are some things happening between Batman and Barbara that add another layer to their relationship.

The voice cast continues to do a great job, with Hamish Linklater leading the way as Batman. while Jamie Chung, John DiMaggio, Jason Watkins, and other returning and new voices help make this version of Gotham feel even bigger. The animation is still beautiful. Season 2 keeps that classic, stylized look that made the first season stand out, and it works perfectly with the noir atmosphere. The visuals, the music, the storytelling, and the voice acting all come together to create a version of Batman that feels like a love letter to Batman: The Animated Series, while still being its own thing.

And without saying too much, this take on the Joker is one of my favorites. I really enjoyed what the show did with the character, and I am very interested to see how fans react.

Batman: Caped Crusader Season 2 is another strong season for the series. It has the mystery, action, villains, and character drama that you want from a Batman show, while continuing to build on the world that Season 1 created. If you enjoyed the first season, I think you are going to have a lot of fun with this one.

Batman: Caped Crusader Season 2 starts streaming on Prime Video July 31st.