INTRODUCTION:
Batman is a fictional superhero who appears in his comic book series by DC Comics. The character was originally created by artist Bob Kane and writer Bill Finger, and made his first appearance in Detective Comics #27 (May 1939).
Batman's alter-ego is Bruce Wayne, billionaire playboy and philanthropist who lives in a fictional city called Gotham City.
When he was a child, Batman watched helplessly as his parents were murdered by criminals. Driven by a thirst for vengeance and justice, he swore an oath to protect the city from criminal and those who would do harm.
But unlike other vigilantes like Marvel's The Punisher, what makes Batman different is his disdain for guns as well as well as a moral code to never kill his opponent.
What makes Batman truly stand apart from other characters in the DC universe like Superman or even the Green Lantern is the fact that he relies on his genius intellect, physical prowess, science, logic and detective skills to carry out his mission.
He's that one superhero who's always ready with several contingency plans, and the only who knows everyone else's weaknesses.
I also think the reason why Batman resonates with so many readers is because he represents the duality in all of us.
Every one has a secret, a secret life or identity that they keep hidden from the public, or even aspirations that they wishes they could set out to do.
Batman takes it a step further and showcases in many story arcs the struggle between the two roles he juggles to portray, and leaves us wondering just exactly who is wearing the mask- Batman or Bruce Wayne?
In DC's "Batman Ninja" movie, Batman finds himself displaced in time and brought to Feudal Japan. During a fight with Gorilla Grodd at Arkham Asylum, Batman is caught in Grodd's Quake Engine time displacement machine and gets sent back in time to Japan.
Once there, he is attacked by Samurai warriors working for the Joker. After escaping them, Batman meets up with Catwoman, who brings him up to speed with what has happened.
All of Gotham's major villains have become feudal overlords and have occupied different states in Japan.
Batman's mission in this story arc is stop Gotham's rogues from wreaking havoc in Feudal Japan and in effect change history!
Sidenote: Batman wields a Katana; doesn't get any better than this!
PACKAGING- 7/10
SHF Batman Ninja comes neatly packaged in a standard SHF boxed window panel, complete with a plastic tray inside for the figure as well as the accessories.
ACCESSORIES-8/10
SHF Batman Ninja comes with:
1. Two optional heads
2. 12 optional hands!
3. One Japanese Katana
4. Two Kunai throwing blades
5. One removable cape
FIGURE- 8/10
I really believe Bandai put it the work and effort into delivering a figure that stayed true to the animated movie; but at the same time doesn't lose the essence of what makes a Batman figure..well, a Batman figure.
The level of detail in the armor pads of the figure, the insignias on the weapons, as well as the headsculpts is commendable.
However I really, really wish they would have gone the extra mile and included a wired cape instead of the hard-cover, "articulated" one.
Why?
Because, it just plain sucks.
It looks good for some poses, but it really hinders the figure's articulation as well as its ability to execute stunts that require a greater deal of articulation especially involving the arms and shoulders.
Figma's coming up with their own take on the figure; and its DX version will include a wired cape. But the pricing will also considerably more than this version.
If it rocks your boat, wait for that version to drop sometime in November/December.
Alternatively, you can opt to find your own wired cape to attach to the figure, and you can get these easily on Ebay.
ARTICULATION-7.5/10
I would given this section a higher rating were it not for the hard-cover cape.
But despite that, it is still a solid figure. Nothing much to worry about, except perhaps stretching his legs too much; may affect the rubbery-like material that's attached to his waist.
POSEABILITY- 8/10
SHF Batman Ninja is able to pull off some convincing poses; an add bonus is that the top part of the feet has a joint articulation, which really helps in getting those crouching poses done right.
VALUE- 7.5/10
I'd recommend getting this if you enjoyed the Batman Ninja film, and IF you're okay with the cape.
Otherwise, I'd suggest either customising a cape or waiting for Figma's (more expensive) version.
But its still a fun figure.
You can still get it on pre-order at BBTS for US$59.99 (RM244) or try contacting EMT&R Anime Service, they may be able to hook you up with one.
Looking forward for The Joker!
OVERALL SCORE- 7.7/10
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