Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 2 (2013)

Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 2 (2013) is an animated superhero film based on Frank Miller’s 1986 comic book of the same name. It follows the story of Batman, set in the same world as Batman: Year One. In late 1986, Joker manipulates his way onto a talk show with his old henchman, Abner, and uses mind-controlling lipstick to plan his escape. Meanwhile, Superman, operating undercover for the government, is asked by President Ronald Reagan to stop Batman’s vigilantism. These events take place against a backdrop of growing tensions between the US and Soviet Union over control of Corto Maltese island. As Batman’s actions continue to challenge authority, Commissioner Yindel orders his arrest and Superman warns him that he won’t be tolerated much longer. During Joker’s appearance on David Endochrine’s show, he kills Wolper after being insulted about Batman’s psychological state and escapes while fighting with the Gotham City Police Department on the studio roof. The incident is broadcasted live on television as Joker gases everyone in the studio, including Endochrine.

In his search for answers, Batman enlists the help of Selina Kyle and convinces one of her escorts to assist him. Using a clever ploy involving lipstick, they take control of a congressional representative who tragically falls to his death after calling for a nuclear strike on the Soviets. During Batman’s investigation, he comes across Selina, who is found bound and dressed as Wonder Woman. The discovery of cotton candy on the floor catches the attention of Kelley, leading Batman to deduce that the Joker is at the fairgrounds. Unfortunately, in pursuit of the notorious criminal, Kelley accidentally kills Abner and Batman continues to chase after Joker as he ruthlessly guns down innocent people. In their final confrontation, with Joker wounded and partially blinded, Batman confronts him with the harsh realization that he feels responsible for all the murders he has committed. Driven by this guilt, Batman intends to kill Joker but ends up severely injuring him in front of multiple witnesses, rendering him quadriplegic.