Batman and Robin is a fascinating disaster. From certain perspectives, the movie is well made. It has an all-star cast, the production design is ambitious, the effects are multifaceted, and the main song is extravagant. However, despite (or perhaps due to) these investments, Batman and Robin is a catastrophic failure. First, the writing is completely foolish. The plot is idiotic, the characters are flat, and the dialogue is transparent. Next, the acting is dreadful. Arnold is Arnold, Clooney is disinterested, and Silverstone is out of her element. Thurmon overacts, but that's comparatively refreshing.
Technically, the sound effects are silly, the editing is sloppy, and the special effects are distractingly unconvincing. Meanwhile, although the production design is thorough in concept, it looks cheap in practice. The elaborate decor is woefully tacky. Similarly, the imagery is often ugly and incoherent despite its dramatic lighting and decent camerawork. Ultimately, this comes down to Joel Schumacher's direction because Batman and Robin is significantly worse than the sum of its parts. The tone is erratic, the style is half-baked, and the overall mission is misguided. In the end, Batman and Robin is only for those who enjoy car wrecks.
Writing: 2/10
Direction: 1/10
Cinematography: 4/10
Acting: 2/10
Editing: 3/10
Sound: 3/10
Score/Soundtrack: 5/10
Production Design: 3/10
Casting: 8/10
Effects: 3/10
Overall Score: 3.4/10
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