When Warner Bros. was acquired by Discovery, some big changes were made at HBO Max. New CEO David Zaslav scrapped a number of upcoming projects, including Merry Little Batman, an upcoming DC movie which has since been acquired by Amazon Prime Video.
Picked up alongside the spin-off series, Bat-Family, and the two-season Batman: Caped Crusader, the feature is aimed at younger viewers but admittedly sounds like a lot of fun. We're also loving the animation style if this newly released poster (via Toonado.com) is anything to go by.
Merry Little Batman is an animated family action comedy that Amazon says is "destined to join the rogue's gallery of classic holiday movies." When young Damian Wayne finds himself alone in Wayne Manor on Christmas Eve, he must transform into "Little Batman'' in order to defend his home and Gotham City from the crooks and supervillains intent on destroying the holidays.
It's also been confirmed that the cast will be led by Luke Wilson, Yonas Kibreab, David Hornsby, and James Cromwell. Their roles have not yet been disclosed.
"We are excited to partner with Amazon to begin an all-new animated chapter of 'Batman,'" Sam Register, President of Warner Bros. Animation and Cartoon Network Studios, said back in April. "From the cinematic noir storytelling of 'Batman: Caped Crusader' to the comedic adventures of 'Merry Little Batman' and 'Bat-Family,' these new projects ensure that there will be an animated Batman story ready to excite fans of all ages."
Mike Roth directed Merry Little Batman from a screenplay by Morgan Evans. Roth also serves as executive producer, alongside Sam Register.
As for that spin-iff series, Bat-Family will follow Batman, Alfred, and a young Damian Wayne - who now holds the title of "Little Batman" - as they navigate the waters as a superfamily. Jase Ricci, Mike Roth and Sam Register will spearhead it as executive producers.
Damian taking centre stage here is definitely exciting for fans of the character, though there will be those who are understandably disappointed he isn't suiting up as Robin instead. Still, "Little Batman" is a concept which should resonate with younger fans and Warner Bros. Animation deserves credit for trying something new with an established character.
Take a closer look at the awesome first poster for Merry Little Batman below.