After a somewhat slow start, 'Batman: The Long Halloween, Part two (2021)' eventually gets even better than its predecessor, perhaps primarily because it actually provides a satisfying conclusion to its narrative. It continues to explore Batman, Dent and Gordon's efforts to apprehend the 'Holiday' killer, who puts them in the odd position of having to protect notorious gangster Carmine Falcone. The picture is perhaps more traditional than its predecessor, containing several action set-pieces that pit the caped crusader against a variety of his famous foes. The actual 'Holiday' killer arguably takes a backseat here, as well, since the flick is often more focused on the consequences that the murders are having on the city's 'cops vs gangsters' conflict. That's not to imply that the thing lacks focus, though. In fact, it brings everything together in a natural and thematically complex way that's really fulfilling. Though a lot of its answers are given in a final exposition dump, the mystery is generally well-told and engaging. The piece also still makes sense after its enigma has been revealed, which is rarer than it ought to be. It's a compelling and enjoyable film, in general. Its action is exciting and its narrative feels urgent, with its well-realised characters always being front and centre. Its themes are interesting, too. It's a solid mystery-thriller that satisfyingly concludes the 'long Halloween'. 7/10.
