If you’re a Batman fan like I am, then Movie World’s new “Batman Legacy” exhibit won’t disappoint. Opening Boxing Day, I was extremely excited to take a real world peak into the caped crusader’s world. Described by the park as “the largest official Warner Bros. Batman exhibition in the Southern Hemisphere,”, the lofty expectation was met and then some, ultimately rekindling my love for Batman’s cinematic history.
Once you make your way past the garish entrance area (garish because the entrance is nestled in the park’s Wild West themed area), guests are immersed within the world of everything Batman. From meticulously preserved costumes worn by Micheal Keaton, Jim Carrey and Uma Thurman, to props and costumes from the newest Batman movie, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice there’s plenty to absorb. It’s all presented well – enough satiate any fan wanting to visit a Bat lair anytime soon.
On top of that, guests are presented with the opportunity to comb over some of the Batman film’s most iconic vehicles, ranging from the sleek 1989 Batmobile, to the Penguin’s giant rubber ducky.
As for the exhibits vibes, well, read on and check out the photos…
Underscored by Danny Elfman’s iconic 1989 Batman theme, your journey begins with various screen-used items from Tim Burton’s classic films. Micheal Keaton’s original Batsuit and the The Joker’s Henchmen leather bomber jacket represent the Bat’s cinematic debut. Also featured is The Joker’s iconic purple and orange overcoat, played and worn by Jack Nicholson himself.
In a somewhat odd decision, the next movie you’re presented with is also the newest represented in the “Batman Legacy” exhibition. Although it feels quite out of place within the experience, it still offers fans a look at some more screen used items, so we can’t complain too much, right?
Rounding the corner, we enter the Joel Schumacher era. Both Batman Forever, and Batman & Robin are known as brighter and more comical movies, which is perfectly reflected via the costuming within these films.
Unlike majority of the other items found within this experience, all of the Batmobile’s featured are replicas, already owned by Movie World, all of which have been featured in the park previously. An exception to that is Batmissile, which was screen-used.
The large major section of the showcase exhibition plays homage to the Christopher Nolan trilogy. Featuring a vast range of props and costumes from all 3 films, this is possibly the most impressive area.
It is safe to say, this is by far the best version of the Studio Showcase. The lighting, sound design and set dressing within the building creates a truly immersive experience.
My only gripe is the location of the exhibit mentioned earlier in the article. Understandably it does make the most sense business wise, utilising a large empty space, opposed to constructing a new, purpose built soundstage. However I can’t help but feel like this exhibit would thrive that extra little bit if it was afforded a more prominent location within the park, nestled in amongst existing DC attractions.
Want to see more? Below is even more from within the exhibit! Make sure you brave the crowds and experience this attraction for yourself.
