Tim Burton Batman 1989 Batman Unmasked. Michael Keaton

Batman 1989 Unmasked
12x9

2019 is the 30th Anniversary of Tim Burton’s Batman. Batman 1989 is a very special film for me. It was my first serious introduction to the character of Batman. But more importantly it was something I remember bonding with my Dad over. My Dad enjoyed movies but he was not one to get overtly excited for a movie. I remember clear as day watching the trailer on TV and when the Batmobile is revealed my Dad said with pure excitement in his voice “Aw, wow we have to see this movie!”
Come June 1989 my own Batmania truly began. I still remember running into Showcase Cinema West with my Dad to make the show time. From the first frame I was hooked.
Granted for a 5 year old some of it was really intense. My Dad made me close my eyes when the Joker shocks the monster and when Batman remember his parents murder.
While the film has started to show some of its age, it captures a tone and aesthetic and made an indelible mark on the character and my life. I also think Michael Keaton’s performance is fantastic. I keep hoping one day we could see him return to the character and maybe voice him in an animated movie. My Dad and I saw every Batman movie together, most opening night and always said Keaton was the best Batman.
To celebrate the anniversary I wanted to add some pieces based on the movie to my art collection.
Tom Reilly is an artist who has been creating some incredible commissions. His visual storytelling in the debut issue of Astro Hustle was very impressive. I thought his style would work perfectly with Batman 89’ and Tom did not disappoint. I love the way he inked these pieces. Thank you Tom for the excellent work on these commissions.