Right from the get-go, Michael Giacchino's music perfectly describes The Batman. Unlike many previous incarnations, the theme almost ends up portraying the character like a villain. Because to criminals, that's exactly what he is. A terrifying monster, hiding in the shadows. Waiting to strike. The clang of a bell is then added to the track, sounding like a toll of judgment, and reflecting how Batman takes justice into his own hands. And while this is undeniably awesome, it's important to note how flawed his approach is. Throughout the movie, Batman is so focused on punishing criminals, that he unwittingly ends up neglecting the people of Gotham. And although he certainly has good intentions, this tunnel-vision for hatred and vengeance only ends up inspiring more violence in the city. Giacchino understands this critical flaw in Batman's philosophy, and mimics it accordingly in his music. Don't believe me? Then let me ask you a simple question: Does this make you feel safe? Does this sound like the theme of a hero who's here to save you? Of course not. Because it's not meant for you. It's meant for THEM. And while that may be a flawed approach, wow is it effective. The anxiety-inducing string notes sound like something out of a horror movie, and remind us of how criminals view Batman. To them he's a psycho. A merciless creature who stalks new victims every night. You might never run into him. But if you do, then god help you. As the theme plays in full force, it almost sounds apocalyptic in its sheer intensity. Like the song is saying, "You have committed evil, and your day of reckoning is here." Vengeance has arrived. As we transition to his action music, I'd like to point out the total lack of tension in the track. What I mean is: Not once does the tone of the music imply that Batman is in any danger of losing the fight. Instead the song sounds menacing and confident, conveying just how proficient of a fighter Batman is, and how little of a chance his enemies have against him. And as a result, we don't doubt for one second that Batman has the situation completely under control. Instead, we're left to awe at his skills as the track becomes epic and grandiose — making us feel like we're witnessing something truly spectacular. In the final fight of the movie, we're treated to a particularly heavy rendition of the main theme. This version plays slower, placing more weight and power behind each note, and really allowing us to feel how fed-up Batman is. He's been Batman for 2 years, but no matter how many bad guys he punches, the city only gets worse and worse with each blow. But he keeps trying over and over again. Unable to accept that his strategy of vengeance simply isn't working. And it's for that reason that his theme repeats so adamantly. Like him, the music stubbornly tries the same 4 notes over and over again. Growing more and more furious each time it doesn't solve the problem. It's a kind of frustration I'm sure we can all relate to, and Giacchino brilliantly depicted it with the unrelenting repetition of his music. It mimics the way Batman repeatedly brings his fists down on his enemies, desperately hoping that the next punch will be the one that saves his city, but ultimately finding no resolution. Unfortunately Warner Bros. didn't let me upload the last two minutes of this video due to copyright. So be sure to check the pinned comment below for my final thoughts on this movie's soundtrack. And thanks for watching :)
