Batman Returns redefined what comic book movie villains should be

The underrated mastermind Max Shreck

Some comic book villains are relatable. Their plans may be harsh, but at least they have good intentions (and we know where those lead to). Then there are people like Max Shreck . He’s easily one of the most despicable people in any comic book movie. He was everything people hate about corrupt men in power. He’s an uncaring monster who smiled for the public, but didn’t care about anyone but himself. He may have saved his son towards the end of Batman Returns, but did he care about his kid or his legacy continuing?

Throughout Batman Returns, Max Shreck showed why we need more villains like this. Watching a villain get what they deserve makes their demise that much better. When he pushed Selina out of the building, we couldn’t wait for his reckoning. When it finally happened, it was done perfectly. Only Catwoman should’ve been able to take him out.

While it was easy to detest him, Shreck was good at what he did. He knew how to play the game better than anyone. He employed Penguin to do his dirty work and continued looking good while someone else got their hands dirty. It was masterfully done and Christopher Walken was a revelation.

DC Comics should do more of this. We don’t always need Joker or Bane. Sometimes a Shreck will do.