The PG-13 rated Batman and Superman: Battle of the Super Sons begins as 11-year-old Jonathan Kent discovers he has superpowers, thrusting the half-Kryptonian into the complicated world of Super Heroes and Super-Villains – who are now under attack by a malevolent alien force known as Starro! It’s a race against time as Jonathan must join forces with assassin-turned-Boy-Wonder Damian Wayne to rescue their fathers (Superman & Batman) and save the planet by becoming the Super Sons they were destined to be!
For thoughts on Batman and Superman: Battle Of The Super Sons, please check out our discussion on The Video Attic:
Video Quality
Batman and Superman: Battle Of The Super Sons comes to 4K UHD Blu-Ray with a 2160p transfer that is a stunning achievement with a unique visual style within the DCAU. This disc provides some notable improvements over the Blu-Ray in areas including more dynamic, natural colors and the elimination of any digital anomalies. The use of HDR yields some vibrant enhancements to the full array of colors on display from the bright palette surrounding Superman and his family, as well as the more dour atmosphere complementing Batman and Damian. This film balances the shift between these different environments effortlessly with lovely saturation. The Blu-Ray just cannot measure up to the level of color complexity delivered by the 4K UHD Blu-Ray.
As mentioned, this entry into the line of DC animated movies provides a little something different with the animation style shifting more three-dimensional. This disc displays a healthy command over keeping everything tight and flowing naturally. Here you are treated to terrific line detail and more distinct shading, which gives the characters greater definition. This presentation handles the precise gradients of the artwork in a way that is just excellent without a hint of banding. The disc provides stronger black levels for a cleaner viewing experience free of black crush, along with grander highlights that never veer into blooming. The 4K UHD Blu-Ray is the way to experience this movie if you are capable.
Audio Quality
This release features a DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio track that really digs deep during this thrilling outing. One of the most surprising aspects of these DC animated tales is the strength of the orchestral score which would feel right at home in a theatrical film. It flows through with a flawless fidelity as it sets the tone for the heroics in play. Dialogue is often accompanied by all manner of sound effects, but all of the information comes through with a deft precision so every element is given a chance to shine.
The powerful track engages all of the channels with lively panning effects and sounds of explosions that put you in the thick of the action. There is a substantial amount of activity in the low-end which will put your subwoofer to work throughout the presentation. The quieter moments are just as particular, as the different environments hold a lot of sonic complexity to appreciate. There are no obvious sync issues or other anomalies present to muck up the experience. Warner Bros. has delivered a grand track that delivers exactly how you would want.
Special Features
- Rival Sons – Jonathan and Damian: A 15-minute featurette in which the creative team takes a look at the origins of these younger characters, the excitement over getting to adapt them for this story, how this allows for deeper exploration of certain themes within the DC universe, the “buddy cop” nature of the story and more which makes for an entertaining watch.
- From The DC Vault: A two-part story from the first season of the 1992 animated series focusing on Batman, Robin, Ra’s al Ghul, Talia, and Ubu. These are presented in HD.
- Batman: The Animated Series – “The Demon’s Quest, Part One” (22:22)
- Batman: The Animated Series – “The Demon’s Quest, Part Two” (22:18)
Final Thoughts
Batman and Superman: Battle Of The Super Sons is a really fun outing for this DC line as you get further development of the titular characters in a different way. While they are present, they do ultimately take a backseat to the younger generation who are wrestling with their own emotional complexities that may not be the end of the world, but certainly feels like it. This story does not attempt to minimize their experiences or make it unrelatable to adults, as their journey puts them right in the path of a foe that would be of equal consequence to the established heroes. The animation style breathes a bit of new life into the line, and the other creative elements work together in a very satisfying manner. Warner Bros. Home Entertainment has released a 4K UHD Blu-Ray featuring a fantastic A/V presentation and a few decent special features. This is one of the more enjoyable entries from DC animation this year, so do not pass it up. Recommended
Batman and Superman: Battle Of The Super Sons is currently available on 4K UHD Blu-Ray, Blu-Ray and Digital.
Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the 4K UHD Blu-Ray.
Disclaimer: Warner Bros. Home Entertainment has supplied a copy of this disc free of charge for review purposes. All opinions in this review are the honest reactions of the author.
Dillon is most comfortable sitting around in a theatre all day watching both big budget and independent movies.