The Batman story is one we've seen time and time and time again. Every time it's slightly different, but after last year's less successful Zac Snyder version, we were probably all thinking: Do we really need another Batman movie? But then again, we've never had the Lego treatment. It's a reincarnation made of bricks but somehow breathes fresh life into old toys and an old story. Introducing the most bonkers, self-aware and hilarious version to date featuring actual Tom Cruise. And yes, we definitely need this in our lives. 

The Lego Movie injected life into colourful bricks in 2014, and now in 2017, we have a glorious spin-off of Batman in bricks. It's unashamedly Batman - from every kind of Bat-Transport imaginable, a wonderful Bat-Cave (with a password that pokes fun of Iron Man), all the caped crusader's villains ever, and the trusty presence of butler/surrogate father Alfred. The synopsis is completely familiar - Batman tries to save Gotham City from the destructive threat The Joker & co. However, it takes just about 10 seconds of screen time to know that this is a Bat-Parody, as shown by tongue-in-cheek opening credits basically like a child-friendly version of Deadpool. It never takes itself seriously, and I'm glad it doesn't, because the result is a non-stop laugh out loud story about saving Gotham in a way we never would have imagined.

Whilst Will Arnett's on-point husky (but deadpan) growl mirroring Christian Bale is still there, it's the unexpected differences that make this film stand out. Starting with the concept that Gotham doesn't actually need Batman (has anyone ever wondered why, despite Batman being there, Gotham is still just as crime-ridden?). This goes hand in hand with the brilliant look into the 'relationship' of Batman and The Joker; they need each other, right? Poor Joker's actually a sensitive lip-quivering soul who needs affirmation from Batman as his greatest enemy ever. Unfortunately, Batman's slightly afraid of commitment (a fantastic "I fight around."), works alone, and "doesn't do 'ships. Relationships." Hahaha, forget Batman and Robin, this is a spectacular bromance only a Lego format could get away with.

This non-relationship relationship leads to a journey to the Phantom Zone far away in the skies (Superman fans will like this), trapping all the supervillains who have been banished there. Here, it's a brilliant and devilishly funny team featuring the likes of Sauron (yep!!), Godzilla, Voldemort and the Daleks (aka "British Robots") - just like the bad guys anonymous meetings in Wreck it Ralph. And elsewhere, you've also got all of Batman's nemeses in another squad - Two Face, Bane, Poison Ivy, Mr Freeze...let the geek-out commence. And if that weren't enough, there's a celebratory ode to the Justice League where the all-star voice cameos include Channing Tatum as Superman and Jonah Hill as the Green Lantern. It's ensemble upon ensemble that would make The Avengers jealous.

If you weren't already baffled by all the different characters, let me introduce you the core guys. Commissioner Barbara Gordon, voiced by Rosario Dawson, will be a treat for DC fans, as well as a super-cute big-eyed Robin who accidentally becomes adopted by Batman.  He absolutely idolises his hero. And of course, there's faithful butler Alfred (Ralph Fiennes) who gets a much bigger and kick-ass role. These three contrast with the Batman we're presented with, who's a bit of a loner. He watches Jerry Maguire on repeat, and he microwaves lobster. He's so alone. There's no time spent/wasted delving into the backstory either. We know that stuff off by heart by now. But, the personal journey learning of the importance of family and friends turns into the strong message for the kids. "Make friends, kids! Being part of a team is better than doing it alone! Don't alienate those who care about you!" etc. etc.

This may be a fun-filled film, but there are lots of quips for the non-kids. The Lego Batman Movie laughs at Iron Man, laughs at and ridicules Suicide Squad, laughs at the Superman rivalry, Bane, 1960s Batman, Batman himself... It's completely self-aware and these are chuckles for the grown-ups in the cinema. Apart from last year's Deadpool, there has never been such a self-satirical superhero movie than this.

Sometimes I forget it's a Lego movie, despite its title and the obvious visuals. This is both a compliment and slight drawback because it goes far beyond the limited toy expressions, but the fundamental building element could be utilised even further. There is one poignant 'building' moment where all the Lego 'clicks', but I suppose there could always be more. It is very much all over the place, so by the second half it begins to get a bit tiring for us, but the level of consistency particularly with its sharp humour never dwindles. These Lego characters never run out of energy.

In a fantastic expansion of the Lego universe, Wayne Manor is even bigger and better, Gotham endures enough plastic-shattering destruction to make Zac Snyder proud, and Batman's super-inflated ego makes for excellent comedy. He even beatboxes! Though it is a simple plot, director Chris McKay is not afraid to go all-out with self-mockery and so it becomes a celebration full of comic surprises. You'll certainly leave with a Jokerific grin on your face.

The Lego Batman Movie is in cinemas on 10th February.