“Batman: The Killing Joke” To Be Rated R

Warner Bros. Animation and DC Entertainment’s direct-to-video animated adaptation of “Batman: The Killing Joke” has officially been rated R, something that was in question.

Sam Register, president of Warner Bros. Animation & Warner Digital Series says: “From the start of production, we encouraged producer Bruce Timm and our team at Warner Bros. Animation to remain faithful to the original story – regardless of the eventual MPAA rating. ‘The Killing Joke’ is revered by the fans, particularly for its blunt, often-shocking adult themes and situations. We felt it was our responsibility to present our core audience – the comics-loving community – with an animated film that authentically represented the tale they know all too well.”

They also add that there are no plans for a PG-13 version of the film. This adaptation of the classic Alan Moore comic features the return of “Batman: The Animated Series” stars Kevin Conroy and Mark Hamill, reprising their iconic roles as Batman and the Joker respectively.

The film is expected to debut on Blu-ray, DVD and Digital HD later this year and will feature an original 15-minute prologue that helps set up the story.