Hulu’s First Original Movie Featuring Batman

In the realm of superheroes, Batman stands out as one of the most iconic figures. However, not many people are familiar with the Black Bat, a character introduced in 1939 who bore a striking resemblance to the Dark Knight we all know and love. Clad in all-black attire with a coat designed to mimic bat wings, the Black Bat was a crime-fighter who instilled fear in the hearts of criminals.

Interestingly, the Black Bat and Batman shared similarities in their origins. While Batman’s creation is often credited to Bob Kane, it’s essential to recognize Bill Finger’s contributions to shaping the character. Finger’s role in defining Batman’s characteristics was overlooked for decades until the airing of Hulu’s first-ever original documentary, “Batman & Bill,” which premiered on May 6, 2017.

Directed, written, and produced by Don Argott and Sheena M. Joyce, “Batman & Bill” sheds light on the controversy surrounding Batman’s creation. It focuses on the struggle to acknowledge Finger’s invaluable work and correct the notion that Kane was the sole creator of the character. Through interviews and insights, the documentary unravels the complex history behind Batman’s origins and the battle to give Finger his due credit.

The film was well-received by critics, scoring an impressive 88% on Rotten Tomatoes. Viewers and comic book enthusiasts alike found value in the documentary, with Julie Hinds of the Detroit Free Press noting its appeal to fans aware of Finger’s story. David Wiegand of the San Francisco Chronicle praised the film’s direction, even though Kane’s side of the story was notably absent.

For those who haven’t had a chance to watch “Batman & Bill,” the documentary is still available for streaming on Hulu. It offers a compelling look at the collaborative efforts that shaped Batman into the cultural phenomenon he is today. Taking into account Finger’s role in defining the character, “Batman & Bill” serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing all creators’ contributions to iconic figures like Batman.