Animated characters Batman, voiced by will Arnett, and Robin, voiced by Michael Cerea, appear in the movie "The Lego Batman Movie." The Catholic News Service classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. (CNS/Warner Bros.)

By Catholic News Service

With his longtime adversary the Joker (voice of Zach Galifianakis) leading an army of bad guys in a bid to prove that he is Batman’s (voice of Will Arnett) most important enemy, the amusingly self-absorbed version of the Dark Knight first seen in 2014’s “The Lego Movie” will have to learn some lessons in humility, teamwork and emotional openness if the villains are to be vanquished. Specifically, the isolated, relationship-shunning Caped Crusader will have to accept the help of the trio of supporters — would-be adoptive son Dick Grayson, aka Robin (voice of Michael Cera), love interest Barbara Gordon, aka Batgirl (voiced by Rosario Dawson), and father figure (as well as butler) Alfred Pennyworth (voice of Ralph Fiennes) — who have rallied to his side.

Fast-paced fun is the order of the day in director Chris McKay’s animated treat for viewers of almost every age. Still, scenes of danger and a bit of potty humor as well as a few joking turns of phrase designed for grownups suggest that small fry would best be left at home.

Perilous situations, including explosions, a couple of instances each of vaguely crass language, scatological humor, mature wordplay. The Catholic News Service classification is A-II — adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG — parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children.

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