DC’s newest Batman show has a range of character designs that have divided audiences in terms of their reception – though the reason these designs have proved controversial also establishes why these designs needed to be the way they are. Batman’s show roster now spans back through a wide array of decades, and depicts the beloved DC hero in a staggering number of different ways.

However, not all depictions end up as universally appreciated as others. While DC’s latest Batman show has garnered some considerable positive reception, the way in which the series approaches the designs of its characters has led to some more divided reactions, too – but this approach looks promising for future DC releases all the same.

DC’s Newest Batman Series Has A Unique Art Style That Has Split Some Fans

Over the years, we’ve seen a range of animated adaptations of Batman’s mythos and story hit screens, which have had a similarly varied selection of art styles. However, even this assortment tends to stay largely within the same ballpark, which may explain why the Dark Knight’s latest show divided audiences a little more with its art style.

Bat-Fam uses a very stylized and cartoonish Burton-esque art style throughout the animated show’s run, which exaggerates the features of its characters and world. With animated Batman series often taking a more grounded approach when it comes to their art styles, it’s easy to see how this may have divided audiences by proving jarring and thus off-putting to some – though this art style holds great promise on several levels.

Bat-Fam’s Unique Art Style Is A Promising Sign For Batman’s On-Screen Future

Experimenting stylistically with officially released Batman adaptations is something of a naturally risky concept. Over the years, the overarching style audiences associate with animated Batman releases has been further and further established, and having a style closer to the likes of Batman: The Animated Series makes it easier for a movie or show to pay tribute to this cornerstone of the superhero genre – and also appeal to audiences because of the visual link.

However, experimentation and delving into territory that is less commonly tread ground is crucial in terms of keeping the Caped Crusader’s adventures feeling fresh, and in terms of exploring what’s possible for the character and his world. While Bat-Fam‘s style may have been too distinctive for some, it ultimately matches well with the series’ tone and story as well – and underlines that there is as much room for more playful and cartoonish animated Batman shows as there is for the more serious and grounded adaptations of the hero’s lore.