Earlier this month, we got an extended behind-the-scenes look at Batman: The Killing Joke which included interviews with some of the creators of the upcoming animated film. Today, Yahoo premiered a more traditional trailer for the project, and we are beyond thrilled.

The most immediately noticeable thing is that the MPAA has given the film an R rating. Given the intensely grim and dark nature of Alan Moore and Brian Bolland’s 1988 graphic novel, this seems both fitting and promising. The trailer is brilliant, especially Batman’s (Kevin Conroy) talk with The Joker (Mark Hamill) about the nature of their relationship, which is lifted straight from the comics. There are many recognizable scenes from the original story, including (spoilers for a 28-year-old graphic novel incoming) Joker’s encounter with Barbara Gordon (Tara Strong), Commissioner Gordon’s (Ray Wise) demented carnival ride, and Joker’s first moments of existence.

The voice work—primarily by veterans of their respective roles—is spectacular, even if the animation leaves a bit to be desired. Either way, we can’t wait to see this iconic Batman story brought to life.

Batman: The Killing Joke is set to premiere at Comic-Con before a wider release later in 2016. We’ll keep you informed of dates as they become available.

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Gabe Aikins

Gabe Aikins resides in Michigan and writes with his trusty 18-year-old cat by his side. When not writing, he is more than likely working through his back catalogue of video games or reading a book. Follow him on Twitter to listen to him give opinions on pop culture and yell about sports.

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