It’s no secret that the movies of the 1970s and 1980s brought about a massive revival in the popularity of comic book character Batman. Since his introduction in 1939, the caped crusader has never been more popular nor more in demand. But why?
The demand for the iconic crime fighter is seemingly endless. The character has even appeared in countless novels, radio plays and TV shows. With rumors of a yet untitled mega-series focused on the Dark Knight still floating around, demand is sure to continue climbing. While many of Batman’s adventures have been adapted for the big and small screens, it’s the latter that have truly resonated with audiences. The success of the 1989 film, The Dark Knight, is generally cited as the point at which Batman truly went mainstream.
Batman’s Rise To Popularity
The popularity of Batman can be measured in several ways. Sales of comic books featuring the Dark Knight are still going through the roof. Retailers have noted a massive spike in demand for his infamous mask. Moviegoers are flocking to see what’s become of Batman since his last outing nearly 70 years ago. And, of course, there’s always that intangible feeling you get when watching one of his flicks.
It’s hard to pinpoint one particular reason why Batman has become so popular in the years since his big-screen debut. Perhaps it’s the complex psychology of a billionaire playboy turned superhero, or the complex narrative structure of a murder mystery that invites repeat viewings. Whatever it may be, audiences have responded in kind and continued to flock to see what happens next.
Why Are Audiences Still Fascinated By Batman?
While many may claim that comic book character Batman has gone stale, this couldn’t be further from the truth. With each new entry in the ever-expanding Arkham franchise, video games like Batman: Arkham Asylum and Arkham City and, of course, The Dark Knight, fans are able to enjoy Batman in new ways. This is also due in part to the fact that DC Comics continues to produce new material centering on the iconic character.
As interest in superheroes continues to increase, it’s interesting to speculate as to why crime fighting characters have been such a popular subject for films and TV shows alike. Superheroes are often portrayed as having extraordinary powers that allow them to save the world. What’s more, they are often seen as heroes in a world full of criminals. The idea of a super-powered individual who defends the innocent is something that certainly speaks to audiences and encourages them to identify with the protagonist.
What’s more is that many of these heroes are usually seen as role models for young people. Kids may not always like or love to admit it, but many of them look up to superheroes as heroes. This, in turn, may explain the recent rise in popularity of superheroes as a whole. It’s not only about believing in a hero, but about believing in a hero that you can be. This is something that resonates with teens and young adults in particular.
The Future of Batman
With every new incarnation, the Dark Knight continues to evolve and change, but he never really goes out of style. This, of course, is largely thanks to the tireless work of artists and creators who have worked tirelessly to keep his image fresh and, for the most part, successful. As mentioned, the popularity of Batman has been rising steadily since the 1960s, and it looks likely this trend will continue. With each new film adaptation, cartoon series or comic book issue, it’s as if Batman were being reborn and given a shiny new lease on life. It seems like he’ll continue to be a mainstay of pop culture for decades to come.