Batman Begins (2005) Codes and Conventions of the superhero genre

Batman Begins (2005)
Codes and Conventions of the superhero genre

The Hero
In Batman Begins, the superhero is Batman. In most superhero films, the hero has special powers, however Batman does't have powers, he just uses his wealth to buy a lot of very useful gadgets and trains himself to become physically, and mentally strong. He uses his abilities, such as the ability to fly, disappear and fight against the villain and to save Gotham.


Backstory
As a child, Bruce watched his parents get murdered; and he blamed himself for the death of them from that day on. Because of this, Bruce wanted revenge. He also wants to save Gotham because his father was such an important member of the community so he feels like it is his job to take the responsibility and save Gotham.
In addition to this, Bruce Wayne developed a fear of bats as a child when he fell into a cave and was attacked by a swarm of bats. Therefore, as he grows up he conquers his fear and gives himself the superhero name 'Batman'.

Alter Ego
Throughout the film, Bruce Wayne has 2 identities; his secret identity being Batman. When he is Bruce, his character comes across as obnoxious in some scenes. Where as when he is Batman he is thought of as something much more than just a wealthy man who only cares for himself.

Costume
As Bruce Wayne, once he has returned to Gotham he is often wearing a suit, to convey his wealth and power. Where as when he is Batman, he has the 'typical superhero costume'. He wears a black cape and a black mask in order to hide his identity. His costume symbolises the bat; this is also where his superhero name "Batman" comes from.

The Villain

In Batman Begins, there are 2 villains who have very similar abilities to Batman- this causes a tense, exciting atmosphere as they have a chance at defeating Batman, but of course they don't.
One of the villains in Batman Begins is the Scarecrow. He uses his abilities in attempt to destroy the city using a drug on a mass scale.

The Setting
Batman was set in Gotham; a made up city which resembles New York City. Since Batman is a DC comic, it is not set in a real city - DC usually set their films in made up places cities.

The Love Interest
Since childhood, Bruce and Rachel had always been in love - they grew up together as best friends and were always there for one another. Batman saves Rachel's life multiple times yet Rachel cannot commit to a relationship between her and Bruce whilst he is Batman.

The Helpers
According to Propp's Theory, a superhero film should include a helper. In Batman begins, there are two helpers; Lucius Fox and Alfred Pennyworth.
Lucius Fox is a research head and friend of Thomas Wayne, he provides all of Bruce's gadgets and becomes friends with Bruce.
Alfred Pennyworth is the closest thing to a father figure Bruce has. He helps him throughout the movie and always has his back.

Lighting 
In the scenes that Batman is in, such as the car chase between Batman and the police, there is often low key lighting to indicate tension and fear, also the car chase can imply action.