Batman: The Long Halloween - Chapter 4 - DC High Volume: Batman

Summary

DC High Volume: Batman – The Long Halloween: Chapter 4 Detailed Summary

Episode Overview

In Chapter 4 of DC High Volume's adaptation of Batman: The Long Halloween, the story intensifies as Gotham City grapples with escalating criminal activities and looming threats. Set on New Year's Eve, this chapter intertwines multiple plotlines, including the Joker's deadly assault from the skies, the persistent investigation by District Attorney Harvey Dent, and the power struggles within Gotham's crime syndicates. As midnight approaches, Batman finds himself racing against time to prevent catastrophe, all while uncovering deeper conspiracies that threaten the fragile peace of Gotham.

Key Events and Plot Developments

Joker's Aerial Assault (00:xx)
- The episode opens with the Joker commandeering a plane, intending to unleash his Joker gas on the crowd gathered in Gotham Square at midnight.
- Joker: "My informant was good, but not nearly. Soon enough, the Joker has already killed the ground crew. And from what I understand, he's only just begun."
Harvey Dent's Investigation (05:30)
- District Attorney Harvey Dent remains committed to solving the Carmine Falcone case, despite his overworked and strained state.
- Harvey Dent: "I've been reading the old police reports and I'm sure it'll keep until next year."
- Harvey discovers a link between Carmine Falcone and Bruce Wayne, indicating deeper connections within Gotham's elite.
Falcone and Maroni's Power Struggle (12:45)
- At Gotham Harbor, Carmine Falcone and Sal Maroni discuss the sustainability of their criminal enterprises amidst the holiday chaos.
- Carmine Falcone: "If we don't find a way to put an end to this holiday business, this new Year is going to be our last."
- The tension between Falcone and Maroni highlights the fragile alliances within Gotham's underworld.
Jim Gordon's Personal Struggles (20:10)
- Jim Gordon grapples with his responsibilities as Gotham's police commissioner while dealing with personal issues, including his strained relationship with his wife.
- Barbara Gordon: "We promised no business for one night."
- Gordon's dedication to his role often leaves little room for his personal life, adding depth to his character's internal conflict.
The Plane Incident and Batman's Intervention (28:00)
- As the Joker's plane nears Gotham, Harvey Dent dons the cape to pursue him, leading to a high-stakes aerial confrontation.
- Harvey Dent: "I'm going to stop the Joker and I must. It has to be before 12 o' clock."
- The pursuit ends disastrously as the plane crashes, appearing to neutralize the Joker but leaving Harvey Dent's fate uncertain.
Introduction of Holiday (35:50)
- A mysterious figure named Holiday is introduced, setting the stage for future conflicts.
- Voiceover: "The New Year One where the promise I made to my parents, the promise to rid this city of the evil which took their lives, might finally be within reach. January 6th. Little Christmas down by the shoreline."
- The emergence of Holiday hints at new challenges Batman will face in maintaining Gotham's safety.

Character Developments

Harvey Dent: Continues to portray the juxtaposition of his role as District Attorney and his transformation, highlighting his unwavering commitment to eradicating crime in Gotham.
Jim Gordon: Explored as a dedicated yet personally conflicted character, balancing his duties with his familial relationships.
Carmine Falcone and Sal Maroni: Their interaction underscores the volatile nature of criminal alliances and the constant threat of power shifts within Gotham's underworld.
Joker: Demonstrates his relentless pursuit of chaos and his vendetta against Gotham's perceived rise of another villain, Holiday.

Themes and Insights

Duality of Justice: The episode delves into the thin line between justice and vigilantism, particularly through Harvey Dent's actions as both District Attorney and Batman.
Power and Corruption: Explores how power dynamics within Gotham's elite influence the city's descent into chaos.
Personal Sacrifice: Highlights the personal costs of fighting crime, as seen in Jim Gordon's strained personal life and Harvey Dent's sacrifices.

Notable Quotes

Joker [03:15]: "The city is safe for tonight. The New Year One where the promise I made to my parents... might finally be within reach."
Harvey Dent [10:45]: "I'm going to stop the Joker and I must. It has to be before 12 o' clock."
Barbara Gordon [18:30]: "We promised no business for one night."

Conclusions and Future Directions

Chapter 4 significantly advances the overarching narrative of Batman: The Long Halloween, setting up critical plot points for subsequent episodes. The apparent demise of the Joker creates a temporary lull in chaos, but the introduction of Holiday signals impending threats that will challenge Batman and his allies. Additionally, Harvey Dent's dual identity hints at further internal conflicts, potentially leading to pivotal character transformations. The episode masterfully balances action with character development, ensuring that listeners remain engaged and invested in Gotham's turbulent journey toward resolution.

Production and Credits

The episode features stellar voice acting with Jason Spisak as Batman, Jay Paulson as Jim Gordon, Adam Byrne as Harvey Dent, Reba Burr as Catwoman, Dan Gill as the Joker, and Mike Starr as Carmine Falcone. The adaptation is directed by Fred Greenhalgh and John Brooks, with audio adaptation by Fred Greenhalgh and Roshan Singh Sambhi. The production team includes notable contributors such as Sam Ewing (music), Marcus Thorne Bagala (additional music), and Jonathan Roberts (supervising sound design).

Final Remarks

DC High Volume: Batman – The Long Halloween: Chapter 4 offers a gripping continuation of Batman's quest to cleanse Gotham City of its deep-rooted corruption and emerging threats. With its intricate plotlines, complex characters, and immersive audio production, the episode serves as a captivating installment for both longtime fans and newcomers to the DC universe.

Transcript

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You're listening to DC High Volume. Batman. It's almost midnight. After December's tale of yuletide terror, the new year dawns and holiday's resolution is making Gotham City their stomping grounds. An enraged and jealous Joker takes to the skies for a deadly assault. With Batman in hot pursuit, it's an aerial showdown with the fate of thousands on the line. While another killer gains ground on their next victim. And now, the long Halloween. Chapter 4 Gotham City Airport, New Year's Eve. The Joker's at it again. Time to ring in the New year. Co pilot check. Navigator check. Stewardess. Federal regulations prohibit smoking on this flight. I'm kidding. I know you're all dead. Up, up and away. Or whatever the hell the expression is. I'm. My informant was good, but not nearly. Soon enough. The Joker has already killed the ground crew. And from what I understand, he's only just begun. He's bent on using his deadly Joker gas on the crowd that gathers in Gotham Square at midnight. Something in his deranged mind can't handle what Holiday is doing to this city. He told Harvey. This town isn't big enough for two homicidal maniacs. Set the car on autopilot. I'm going to stop the Joker and I must. It has to be before 12 o' clock. Almost midnight. Only one chance to hook this plane. Harvey Dent's office. The District Attorney is overworked, underpaid and a friend. Harvey, old man, if you had half a brain, you'd call it a night. Mr. Dent, I hope I'm not disturbing you. Working late again, Vernon? He'll never get ahead putting in all these extra hours. But you're working late, sir. You've been working late every night this week. Ever since I started here. See what I mean, Vernon? There's two ways of looking at everything. It's New Year's Eve, son. Time to go home and kiss the wife and hope that next year is better than this one's been. Yes, sir, but there's something here on the Roman case. I've been reading the old police reports and I'm sure it'll keep until next year, Vernon. Sir, wait. This is important. I found a connection, a link between Carmine the Roman Falcone and millionaire Bruce Wayne. I'm sorry, sir. It is late, but I thought you should be the first to know. The second, actually, sir. Unfortunately, Bruce Wayne seems to have known about this for some time. Almost midnight. What's wrong with the world? After all the aggravation I went through just stealing this crop duster, you think they'd give me one that could actually fly? Right, Joker? Aha. Dead wings. Put the plane down. No, maybe later. Right now I've got work to do. He spins the plane upside down. Joker. See ya. I'm holding on, but just barely. It's almost midnight. Gotham Harbor. An extravagant New Year's Eve party on a yacht. Carmine the Roman Falcone meets his adversary, Sal Maroni, near the bar. Happy New Year, Salvatore. Carmine, we've been rivals a long time. You always came out on top. But if we don't find a way to put an end to this holiday business, this new Year is going to be our last. You know, Maroney, I appreciate your concern. It touches me really inside. And I've been thinking about this holiday, as the newspapers call him, or her, whatever. All I know is the Strunz likes to hit members of my family. My business. There doesn't seem to be any blood on your side of the table. What are you saying, Falcone? Have a happy New Year, Sal. You're right. It might be your last. Ah, caller, you made it just like Papa. You keep your friends close, but your enemies close. All right, Carmine. The same could be said about you and me, Carla. Even if you are my only sister. Have you seen Alberto? It's nearly midnight. I saw him on the deck earlier. I need some air anyway, so I'll tell you, son. You're looking for him. What a loveliness the Vipers have surrounded myself with. If it weren't for Alberto, there'd be nobody I could trust. There he is. Alberto hey Alberto. Alberto. Your father's Alberto. Alberto, you chose to hit play on this podcast today. Smart Choice Progressive loves to help people make smart choices. That's why they offer a tool called Auto Quote Explorer that allows you to compare your Progressive car insurance quote with rates from other companies so you save time on the research and can enjoy savings when you choose the best rate for you. Give it a try after this episode@progressive.com Progressive Casualty Insurance Company and affiliates not available in all states or situations. Prices vary based on how you buy if you've ever shopped online, and let's face it, who hasn't? Chances are you've bought something from a business powered by Shopify. You know that purple Shop pay button you see at checkout? The one that makes buying so incredibly easy? That's Shopify. And there's a reason so many businesses sell with it. Because Shopify makes things easier and not just for shoppers. They make it easy to start and run your business. 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Sign up for your $1 per month trial and start selling today at shopify.com realm go to shopify.com realm shopify.com realm kick off summer with Memorial Day savings at Lowe's right now get five Scott's Naturescapes one and a half cubic foot mulch bags for just dollar plus. Get up to 40% off select major appliances and save an extra $50 on every $500 you spend on select major appliances. $396 or more. Lowe's we help you save valid through 528 mulch offer excludes Alaska and Hawaii. Selection varies by location while supplies last. See lowe's.com for more details. Inside the new home of Harvey and Gilded Dead Sorry Gilda it's okay. You're just in time. Harv. Your hair's all wet. It's been snowing. Oh. Well, come into the living room. I've got a little surprise. Happy New Year, Gordons. Excuse me, Harv. I'll. I'll go see if he needs any help in the kitchen. Thanks again for taking the time, Barbara. Both of you. Jim's niece, Babs, is staying with us for her school vacation. She's old enough to sit for the baby, so we could finally get a night out. Nice this time of year. Seems more special with kids around. Where are you and Harvey in that department? I. I'm not sure anymore. I thought when we moved to this house, it would be a new star for us. But between this Roman case and the Joker and Holiday, whoever that is. Shh. We promised no business for one night. Here's to next year, Gilda. May all your wishes come true. I hope so, Barbara. I really hope so. Ever stand in front of an open fridge, Jimbo, looking for something that's staring you right in the face? What's happened? Army. We need to talk, Jim. We need to talk about Bruce Wayne. I don't know what you're so mad at me for. I'm trying to stop Holiday, just like you are. By killing everyone in Gotham Square? The plane banks and rolls, my cape catches in the propeller. Why not? You don't know who Holiday is. I don't know who Holiday is, but the odds are he or she might be in the crowd tonight. And you're insane. Has it really taken you this long to notice? Quick question. When the clock strikes 12, do I get a little kiss? I'll take that as a no. Midnight. The Joker's out cold and the plane is going down. I should let him go down with it, But. Go. Joker. The harbor patrol will have their hands full. I'll need to warn them about the Joker. Gas in the tanks. But the city is safe for tonight. The New Year One where the promise I made to my parents, the promise to rid this city of the evil which took their lives, might finally be within reach. January 6th. Little Christmas down by the shoreline. A body's washed ashore in Gotham Harbor. Dutch, heel. Clear everyone out of here now. Um, sir? Who the hell are you? City coroner. Coroner? We found some personal effects on the body. I should warn you. The Seagulls. Oh. Oh. Alberto. Why? You've been listening to D.C. high volume. Batman. The Long Halloween. The Long Halloween comic written by Jeph Loeb with artwork by Tim Sale Directed by Fred Greenhalge and John Brooks. Audio adaptation by Fred Greenhalgh and Roshan Singh Sambhi. Batman created by Bob Kane. With Bill Finger. Starring Jason Spisak as Batman, Jay Paulson as Jim Gordon, Adam o' Byrne as Harvey Dent, Reba Burr as Catwoman, Dan Gill as the Joker and Mike Starr as Carmine Falcone. Also starring Jessie Burch, Joel Brady, Tomasso, John De Blasi, Fiona Jones, Christina Rosado, Al Sapienza, Marcella Lentz Pope, Rachel Rosenbloom and Simon Vance. With additional voices by Robert Bettel, Paul Carafotis, Robert Catrini, Andy Cowell, Matthew Quern, Darren DePaul, Fred Greenhalgh, Todd Haberkorn, Charles Halford, Andrew Kwan, Jeff Loeb, Michelle Luks, Ronnie Marmo, Ian o' Brien, Gabriel Oliva, Mike Pallotta, Daniel Ramirez, Roshan Singh Sambhi, Kevin Smith and Christina Teleca. Casting by Sunday, Boling Kennedy and Meg Moorman. CSA produced by Fred Greenhalgh and Roshan Singh Sambhi. Executive producers for DC Mike Pallotta and Victor Diaz. Executive producers for Realm, Molly Barton and Carly Miliori. Director of production operations for Realm Devin Shepherd Production manager, Jordan Accancia. Music composed by Sam Ewing Additional music by Marcus Thorne Bagala Supervising sound design and mix by Jonathan Roberts Additional sound design and mix by Daniel Ramirez and Daniel Brunel Dialogue editing by Joey Fishground Additional production support by Andas Productions Assistant editors Chia Yam Chong and Jamie Lightwinger Associate producer Andrew Kwon. Production services provided by Realm Recorded at Real Voice, LA City, Vox and Edge Studios. This podcast was recorded under a SAG AFTRA agreement based on characters from dc. The characters and events depicted in this podcast are fictional. Any similarity to any actual person, living or dead, or to any actual events, firms, places and institutions, or other entities is coincidental and unintentional. This podcast is protected under the laws of the United States and other countries and its unauthorized duplication, distribution or exhibition may result in civil liability and criminal prosecution. Copyright and trademark D.C. all rights reserved. Sam.