Common Sense Media Review
By Jennifer Green
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Animated tale about Batman's son; peril, violence.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 7+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Merry Little Batman
What's the Story?
In MERRY LITTLE BATMAN, Damian Wayne (Yonas Kibreab) is Batman's (Luke Wilson) 8-year-old son, and he can't wait to be a superhero like his dad. When Batman is called away to deal with a situation (because there's no longer any crime in Gotham), Damian sees his chance to train with the superhero belt his dad has hidden from him. He deceives caretaker Alfred (James Cromwell) to be left alone at the mansion to train. When two criminals break in and steal his belt, Damian chases them downtown to get it back. Little does he know, the criminals are working with Joker (David Hornsby) and Penguin (Brian George), as well as Poison Ivy (Therese McLaughlin) and Mr. Freeze (Dolph Adomian). Damian has just walked right into their trap, putting himself -- and Christmas in Gotham -- at risk.
Is It Any Good?
This film offers up some comical takes on classic characters and manages to also eke out a few meaningful lessons about family and being responsible for one's actions. Merry Little Batman's script and voice cast never seem to be taking the action too seriously, making dangerous scenarios feel less imposing for young viewers and the humor occasionally funny even for adult audiences. The Joker's childlike flair for the dramatic and Alfred's sarcasm and meticulousness are especially silly, and some fast-moving lines also capitalize on viewers' familiarity with the characters and their world. The Christmas timing feels like an afterthought to this merry little movie.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the lessons Damian learns in Merry Little Batman.
Why does Damian momentarily believe he might actually be a villain?
How does this Batman tale compare with others you've watched?
Does the holiday setting seem necessary to the story, or could it have been set during any time of the year? Why?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : December 8, 2023
- Cast : Luke Wilson , Yonas Kibreab , James Cromwell
- Director : Mike Roth
- Studio : Prime Video
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Superheroes
- Run time : 91 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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