R-rated, animated 'Batman: Killing Joke' movie set for DVD release Aug. 2

BEVERLY HILLS , Calif., May 12 (UPI) -- Warner Bros. Home Entertainment says it will release its eagerly awaited, animated movie Batman: The Killing Joke via Digital HD on July 26, and on DVD and Blu-ray on Aug. 2.

The company posted an 85-second clip for the R-rated flick on YouTube Thursday. The movie is an adaptation of the iconic Batman-Joker graphic novel by the same name.

"Batman: The Killing Joke takes a journey into the dark psyche of the Clown Prince of Crime -- from his humble beginnings as a struggling comedian to his fateful encounter with Batman that changes both of their lives forever," a synopsis said. "Years later, and now escaped from Arkham Asylum, The Joker devises a plan to prove that one bad day can make anyone as insane as he is -- setting his sights on Commissioner Gordon. It's up to the Dark Knight to put a stop to The Joker's latest scheme and save one of Gotham City's finest. Following a gripping prologue introducing Barbara Gordon's heroic adventures alongside Batman as Batgirl, Batman: The Killing Joke stays true to the authentic tale that has held fans' imaginations for nearly three decades -- spotlighting the birth of a supervillain, the fortitude of a superhero and the punchline that will leave you speechless."

The voice cast will include Kevin Conroy as Batman/Bruce Wayne, Mark Hamill as The Joker, Tara Strong as Barbara Gordon and Ray Wise as Commissioner Gordon.