Movie Plot – The Batman Superman Movie: World’s Finest: Joker goes to Metropolis with an offer and plan to kill Superman for Lex Luthor while Batman chases the clown to Superman’s city.
Director: Toshihiko Masuda
Writers: Alan Burnett, Paul Dini, Rich Fogel, Stan Berkowitz, Steve Gerber
Cast: Tim Daly, Dana Delany, Kevin Conroy, Mark Hamill, Clancy Brown
Three episodes become one movie.
Whether you can call this a movie or not, it doesn’t matter. It is recognized as a TV movie, but it can also be seen as three consecutive episodes. Another example is the opening of the Superman series: Superman: The Last Son of Krypton.
I watch this as a film, but a very short one as it consist of three episodes. In other words, it’s only an hour long. If you’re wondering of what specific TV-show it came from, well I can answer that! It’s from Superman: The Animated Series. Unfortunately, if you only watch Batman: The Animated Series, you won’t encounter this story. Well, it makes sense as last episode aired in 1995, and this film is from 1997.
Batman in Metropolis
Batman gets a lead that the Joker is on its way to Metropolis. On top of that, the Joker has Kryptonite with it. In other words, he has something with him to defeat Superman.
This is the ideal opportunity to go on a business trip for Bruce Wayne. In the animated series, this is also the first that Batman is in Superman’s city! Or well, at least that I know of. And you know where that gets us. To the first time these two iconic legends encounter each other.
I always loved when they see eachother for the first time. They are both wary, and don’t trust each other right away. But yes, Batman already has a hard time trusting people. And I said maybe they were wary, but Superman didn’t expect Batman to throw him to the ground. Yeah, Batman rules.
I cannot express how much I enjoy their identity reveals. It’s something I generally like in comic book movies and series. This is one of the best reveals ever. If you have already seen it and want to see it again, then you can watch the clip below:
Also, Mr. Wayne is a sneaky guy. Or should I say, Mr. steal your girl!
Joker and Lex Luthor teaming up
Joker, who is short of money for his criminal activities, makes a deal with Lex Luthor to kill Superman. An unusual team up if you ask me. Lex is all organised, and tries to hide his criminal activities, while Joker is the opposite. He goes all nuts, and chaotic and is not afraid to hide his activities.
It is mainly the Joker with his sidekick Harley Quinn who manage to steal the show. Although Lex is also involved, the clowns are more chaotic and louder. Of course I don’t mind because I just adore them.

The role of Lex Luthor actually remains fairly unused. Attention is almost completely focused on Joker and Harley Quinn. Actually, the other one there is more for his technology and money and not really for his master criminal plans.
A great short film
Unfortunately, this film doesn’t last long at all, as it is a composition of three episodes. So it’s a pretty fast plot, and in itself you are prepared for it. That’s the way it is in cartoons.
Still, I love this movie so much. Not to mention the great cast: Kevin Conroy, Mark Hamill and Tim Daly. They will forever be admired for their performance in voice acting.
What I really love about the World Finest are the interactions between Superman and Batman, and Bruce vs. Clark Kent. Well then, it’s all about winning the heart of Lois Lane.
Conclusion
If you are a fan of the animated series, then this film will definitely appeal to you. The Batman Superman Movie: World’s Finest is a fun short film for every DC fan.
