Warner Bros. has released a first clip from Batman, The Dark Knight Returns, Part 1, the animated adaptation of Frank Miller’s classic 1986 miniseries.  The clip features a chase sequence with animation that appears a bit more fluid than the previous PG-rated direct-to-DVD animated features based on DC Comics properties.  Miller’s influence is particularly evident character design, especially that of Batman.

 

The Dark Knight Retuns, Part 1, which is directed by Jay Oliva, will be released on September 25th with the second half due in early 2013. Warner Bros. recently shut down its Warner Premiere division that specialized in direct-to-DVD productions, which leaves the future of DC-based animated features beyond the two-part The Dark Knight still in doubt.