Batman: The Animated Series - Movie Quotes
Memorable Quotes
I am vengeance! I am the night! I am Batman!
— Batman
Context:
From the Season 1 episode "Nothing to Fear." After being dosed with Scarecrow's fear toxin, Batman hallucinates his father telling him he is a disgrace. He fights off the effects of the gas, defiantly shouting this line at the Scarecrow, reaffirming his mission and conquering his own self-doubt.
Meaning:
This is arguably the most iconic quote from the series, encapsulating Batman's entire persona. It is a powerful declaration of his identity and purpose, delivered as he overcomes his deepest fears. It signifies that he is not merely a man in a costume, but a force of nature—an embodiment of the justice and fear he instills in the hearts of criminals.
You're not a murderer. I'm a murderer. I'm the one who killed Batman.
— The Joker
Context:
From the Season 1 episode "The Man Who Killed Batman." A small-time, nebbish crook named Sid the Squid seemingly kills Batman by accident. The Joker, rather than being pleased, is furious that someone so insignificant stole his moment. He confronts the terrified Sid, delivering this line before attempting to kill him.
Meaning:
This quote chillingly highlights the Joker's twisted worldview and his unique relationship with Batman. He is disappointed and angered that a common thug might have killed his nemesis, as he sees Batman's destruction as his sole privilege. It underscores his obsession and the idea that their conflict is a deeply personal, theatrical performance that no one else is allowed to end.
I never said thank you.
— Batman
Context:
From the theatrical film "Batman: Mask of the Phantasm," which is part of the series' continuity. After a flashback where Alfred encourages a young Bruce Wayne to abandon his vow for a chance at happiness with Andrea Beaumont, Bruce tearfully puts on the cowl for the first time. In the present, he turns to Alfred and quietly says this, acknowledging Alfred's unwavering support through his darkest moments.
Meaning:
A rare and powerful moment of vulnerability from Batman. This simple phrase, directed at his most steadfast ally, reveals the deep gratitude and affection hidden beneath his stoic exterior. It's a significant moment of character development, showing him acknowledging his dependence on others and expressing an emotion he usually keeps buried.
Without Batman, crime has no punchline.
— The Joker
Context:
From the episode "The Man Who Killed Batman," after it is believed Batman has been killed by a low-level thug. The Joker is shown to be in a state of depression, unable to find joy in his usual mayhem, lamenting to Harley Quinn that his entire reason for being is gone.
Meaning:
This quote perfectly encapsulates the Joker's symbiotic relationship with Batman. For the Joker, crime is not about gain but about performance and chaos. Batman provides the order that makes his chaos meaningful and the audience for his deadly jokes. Without his nemesis, his actions lose their purpose and become, in his view, humorless and dull.