What Batman Begins did for the Batman films, Gotham Knight attempts to accomplish for the animated series. It’s a PG-13, darker, anime-style world, mixing in some subtle CGI to give Gotham a totally new look.

An anthology film, it’s made up of six loosely related segments, which shine light on Batman’s rise from amateur vigilante to superhero. Comic book greats Greg Rucka and Brian Azzarello, as well as screenwriters David Goyer and Josh Olson, make contributions. Kevin Conroy returns from the terrific animated series to voice Batman.

Unfortunately, the filmmakers’ inability to find a larger over-arcing plot leaves you wanting. And the short segments don’t really break any new ground in the Batman mythology. Still, it’s an innovative visual feast.

Grade: A-

Batman – Gotham Knight is currently available.