Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker is an animated superhero film released in 2000 as a direct-to-video production. It is based on the Batman Beyond television series, which takes place in the future where an aged Bruce Wayne is mentoring a new teenage Batman.
In the film, the Joker reemerges in Gotham City several years after his apparent death. As the new Batman investigates, he discovers that there may be more to the Joker's return than meets the eye. The film features flashbacks to the original Batman series, showing how the Joker had attempted to corrupt Bruce Wayne's young protege, Robin, and ultimately led to the boy's traumatic transformation into the vigilante known as Nightwing.
The movie has a darker and more mature tone than the original TV series, delving into themes such as trauma, betrayal, and the legacy of Batman's crusade against crime. It features the return of Mark Hamill as the Joker, as well as the voice talents of Kevin Conroy as Bruce Wayne/Batman, Will Friedle as Terry McGinnis/Batman, and Angie Harmon as Commissioner Barbara Gordon.
Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker received positive critical reception for its storyline, animation, and voice acting. It is considered a fan favorite among Batman fans and is often cited as one of the best animated Batman films of all time.