What We Learned From The Lego Batman Movie
I knew the Lego Batman movie would be a fun, romping adventure as only an animated film about Legos can be. Especially with the Caped Crusader in the star role.
But little did I expect to find myself immersed in a geek’s paradise of homages, references, easter eggs, and quotes. To quote Larry the Cucumber, “I laughed, I cried, it moved me, Bob.”
I didn’t actually cry (promise), but wow, watching that movie hit the same level of fun as, oh, I don’t know. Running up and down the halls of a college dorm at 3am shooting people with Nerf guns. (Yes, that’s a true story.)
In addition to being a fandom lover’s best friend, the Lego Batman film had plenty to say. Some points more obvious than others. Some goofy, some profound.
ALERT! ALERT!
We’re in spoiler territory. Consider yourself fairly warned, Frodo. If you continue on this journey, you’ll run across dangers you may wish to avoid.
If you dare tread this path, then forge ahead.
Batman and Superman
Here’s a list of ten things we learned from Lego Batman.
1. Superman knows how to par-tay. Seriously, for being an alien, his level of cool is atmospheric. He must also have a grudge against Batman, for like, you know, not inviting him to the annual Justice League celebrations fifty-seven years straight.
2. Villains abound.
In the first Lego movie, everything was awesome.
In round two, everything is Gotham. Full of riotous rogues bent on disturbing the peace and ruining the lives of Gotham’s citizens. Criminals are on the loose. The world’s not always a safe, happy place.
3. Boldness is useful. Robin displayed this well when asking Bruce to adopt him. Sure Bruce gave distracted answers, but Robin took the initiative to approach him.
How about when they infiltrated Superman’s Fortress of Solitude? That took some serious guts.
4. Fandoms rock. There are few things more enjoyable for a geek than to have your favorite fandom worlds collide. That’s where this film excelled, with sightings from Lord of the Rings, Doctor Who, Harry Potter. Also, the references. Brilliant.
A never-ending fandom-powered river of awesome.
5. Batman can drop the beat and Alfred plays a sick electric guitar. Who knew such Bruce’s mansion/the Bat Cave harbored such talent?
6. Family is important. Loneliness is something we all struggle with. On the surface, Bruce seemed to have everything. Fame, importance, a city practically worshiping him. But what value did it give him in the long run?
Everyone, from the world’s best vigilante to the town’s forgotten orphan boy, needs community. Relationships. Family.
7. How to destroy Sauron. Looks like Gandalf and everyone else had it wrong. They were missing the secret ingredient. Hiring a sea monster that shoots fireballs out of its mouth.
8. Work together. This took awhile for Batman to figure out. He loved working on his own, having control, soaking up the glory for himself. But as he learns later on, having a team is not only enjoyable, it’s vital for success.
9. Good ideas are hard. In a nutshell, if you’re not named Batman, good ideas are as hard to come by as self-chosen superpowers.
10. Batman’s password is the best ever. Guess we know his deepest darkest opinion about Iron Man.
What did you enjoy or dislike about the Lego Batman movie?
Loved it for all the same reasons, Zachary. And watching all my kids laugh at the same time. Repeatedly.
(BTW, I think the sea monster was the Kraken from the original “Clash of the Titans”. Look for an image and you’ll see what I mean.)
Mannnnn I want to see this now!
I think I learned that LEGOs are over-priced.
No, wait… I learned that by BUYING Legos. Sorry.