Synopsis:
Sergeant Frank Kelly is one of the last good cops in Gotham, and his life is about to change forever. This fan film takes a trip back to the mean streets of Gotham when “the Bat” was just a rumor chased by reporter Alexander Knox, and the city was powerless against crime bosses like Carl Grissom.
Review by Parker Jesse Chase:
“The Oath: A Batman Fan Film” takes us on a journey back to the gritty streets of Gotham City when the Batman was still a whispered rumor. Written and directed by Johnny K., this short film centers around Sergeant Frank Kelly (Jerry Morgan), a dedicated police officer in a city overrun by crime and corruption.
The film begins with a moody orchestral score, setting the tone for a classic superhero story arc. The title sequence artfully transitions from comic book inspiration to visual reality, immersing viewers into the world of Gotham through a scenic painting executed by Joe Granski. The attention to detail in the location and production design shines through, particularly in the exterior shots of Sgt. Kelly’s surroundings and the play of shadows against brick walls, capturing the essence of a grim and atmospheric Gotham City.
Rather than relying on action-packed scenes, the film uses dialogue-driven moments to convey the struggles faced by Sgt. Kelly and his partner. The writing effectively presents the systemic issues and moral dilemmas plaguing the city’s law enforcement. These issues come to a head when Kelly is faced with a choice that challenges his principles—a choice many officers before him have made. The film portrays the inner conflict well, exploring the temptation to compromise for personal gain in a broken system.
Central to the story is the arrival of Batman (Guillermo Mejía), a symbol of justice and vigilantism. The film’s strength lies in its ability to incorporate Batman into a narrative that primarily focuses on the perspective of an everyday officer. The costume design adds a unique touch by giving the police uniforms a superhero spin, while maintaining the noir aesthetics Gotham City is known for.
The film doesn’t shy away from tackling deeper themes, such as the struggle between doing what’s right and succumbing to the darkness. Sgt. Kelly’s journey serves as a microcosm of the larger battle for the soul of Gotham. The fight sequences, choreographed by Stunt Coordinator Jason White, are well-executed and enhance the film’s visual appeal in the editing process.
However, “The Oath” doesn’t offer much in terms of groundbreaking storytelling. The narrative arc feels familiar, echoing themes Batman fans have encountered before. The film’s strength lies in its attempt to humanize the world of Gotham by showcasing the perspective of an ordinary officer.
The performances are solid, with Jerry Morgan capturing the internal conflict of Sgt. Kelly effectively. Guillermo Mejía’s portrayal of Batman exudes the iconic presence expected of the Dark Knight. The film benefits from its commitment to visual authenticity with Gotham City contributing to the film’s noir-inspired atmosphere.
Ultimately, “The Oath: A Batman Fan Film” is a love letter to Batman’s world. While it doesn’t break new ground, it successfully combines familiar elements from the Gotham universe with a fresh perspective on the city’s struggles. It’s a reminder even in the darkest of times, there are those who are willing to remind you to stand up for justice and do the right thing.
Directed by Johnny K.
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