Common Sense Media Review
By Jeffrey M. Anderson
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Lighthearted superhero action is fun -- but big toy ad.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 7+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
LEGO Batman: The Movie -- DC Superheroes Unite
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 8 parent reviews
Based on 15 kid reviews
Kids say this movie is a funny and entertaining take on the Batman franchise, with many reviewers highlighting its clean humor and positive messages suitable for children. However, some note that while it has charming elements and fun action, it may not be as polished or engaging as more recent Lego offerings, leading to mixed feelings about its animation and overall quality.
- funny and entertaining
- good for kids
- mixed animation quality
- positive messages
- action-packed
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
When Bruce Wayne beats Lex Luthor as Gotham's "Man of the Year," it inspires Lex to cook up an evil plan to become president. This plan requires freeing the Joker from Arkham Asylum, using a Kryptonite-powered gun. The Joker takes the opportunity to also free all of Batman's other fearsome foes (Catwoman, Penguin, Bane, etc.). Batman and Robin take the case. Superman offers to help, but Batman refuses. Finally, when Luthor and the Joker begin rampaging through town in a giant Joker robot, spreading a dangerous chemical (designed to influence election results), Batman changes his mind and the Justice League swoops in to help.
Is It Any Good?
LEGO Batman: The Movie -- DC Superheroes Unite will entertain adults just as effortlessly as it does kids. It's funny to see the opening credits, designed, LEGO-style, to copy the opening credits for Tim Burton's Batman (1989). It even lifts parts of Danny Elfman's original Batman music score (as well as parts of John Williams' Superman score).
The movie looks great and moves well, using its 71 minutes wisely. It has time for both thrills and humor without feeling rushed or forced, and the characters are funny and likeable. The only real issue is that it takes place, more or less, within the real superhero universe, and fans may balk at the somewhat jokey treatment of their heroes. Otherwise, though the movie doesn't specifically mention toys for sale, it's hard to escape that the entire thing plays like a toy ad.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the movie's violence. Is it scary or over the top? Is it necessary to tell a superhero story with a lot of violence?
What does Batman learn over the course of the movie? Why is he so reluctant to reach out to others?
Does this movie make you want to own more LEGO toys? Why or why not?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : May 21, 2013
- Cast : Charlie Schlatter , Clancy Brown , Troy Baker
- Director : Jon Burton
- Studio : Warner Premiere
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Superheroes
- Run time : 71 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : February 19, 2026
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