- "Batman: Gotham Knight" (Two-Disc Collector's Edition DVD and Blu-ray) - This collection contains six animated shorts (all by different animators and writers) that collectively bridge the span between the events of "Batman Begins" and "The Dark Knight." For example, here's where you'll find out what happened to Scarecrow after Katie Holmes shot a taser in his face. David S. Goyer (co-writer of BB and TDK) contributes, among other appreciated artists. 75 minutes in length.
- "Batman: Year One" & "Batman: The Dark Knight Returns" - These two graphic novels, both overseen by veteran artist Frank Miller ("Sin City," "300"), were instrumental in reinvigorating the Batman character and helped set the tone for a darker, more internal hero (and sometimes anti-hero). "Year One" retold Batman's origin story, displaying Bruce Wayne's decision to save Gotham from the evil and corruption plaguing the city as the Caped Crusader. Lieutenant James Gordon and Selina Kyle (who would go on to become Catwoman) are also both introduced. This story served as a major influence on the tone and story for "Batman Begins." "The Dark Knight Returns" takes place after a ten year disappearance from Batman. Gotham has degenerated into a hell on earth, and Bruce Wayne is a broken man struggling to hold on to the hope that he can still change things. This graphic novel is celebrated as the definitive Batman story.
- "Batman Begins" (Limited Edition Gift Set [Blu-ray]) - If you own a Blu-ray player and don't already have a copy of "Batman Begins," this special set may be just what you're looking for. Along with the excellent film, the set also includes Blu-Ray high-def exclusive content: "The Dark Knight Prologue," plus Hollywood Movie Money to see The Dark Knight in theaters (a $7.50 value), 32-page exclusive "Dark Knight Prologue" book, 16-page comic book adaptation of the first 6 minutes of "The Dark Knight," a Batman Begins lenticular (I have no idea what that is), and five collectible post cards. So if you like getting lots of stuff, this sounds like the edition for you. 140 minutes in length.
- "Batman: The Killing Joke" - Whereas Frank Miller's work redefined Batman, this graphic novel by Alan Moore ("V for Vendetta," "Watchmen") recast The Joker. While he had devolved into a corny prankster, in "The Killing Joke" he was brought back to being the evil and insane villain he started off as. This book is most notable for The Joker's ruthless torture and eventual paralyzation of Barbara Gordon, aka Batgirl. This story is where Heath Ledger's version of the character comes from.
And finally, one more special pick...
- "Batman: The Movie (DVD and Blu-ray)" - BOW! ZAP! WHOOSH! Warning: do not confuse this with Tim Burton's version of Batman! This is the original Batman movie, based on the extremely cheesy television series that featured Adam West and Cesar Romero. In the film, Batman and Robin take on Catwoman, The Joker, The Penguin and The Riddler all at the same time...and on a yacht! If you can appreciate this type of style you will not be disappointed. 105 minutes in length.
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