Tim Burton’s Batman 1989 Unmasked Michael Keaton

Batman 89 Unmasked
Daniel Warren Johnson
4x6 Free Prize won on 12/23/18

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 mobster 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. His brooding and intensity capture Batman and Bruce Wayne that is both unique and totally on point. I keep hoping 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 he 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.
Daniel Warren Johnson is one of the preeminent artists working today. He has truly raised the bar on what commissions should be. His twelve issue mini-series as writer and artist, is the excellent, Extremity.
The story of a wounded artist trying to survive in a Mad Max like world as they slowly compromise their soul to violence war and revenge, it was a masterful debut.
His follow up series, Murder Falcon is full of such energy, power, and heart and is simply wonderful.
This past Christmas Daniel, through his art rep Felix Lu offered 3 opportunities to get a free 4x6 sketch by Daniel. Fortunately with some luck, a lot of refreshing my phone during a family Christmas event, and a very understanding wife I won. I asked Daniel for Batman 89 Unmasked and he did not disappoint. Thank you to Daniel and Felix for making this very special piece happen.