Watch the first clip from Batman: The Killing Joke

The clip in question, brought to us courtesy of DC Comics All Access’ video, takes a scene directly out of the graphic novel, one that reveals the intimate relationship between Batman and the Joker, along with a devious little twist. It’s cast a long shadow over modern Batman comics and depictions of the Clown Prince Of Crime (too long a shadow, according to Killing Joke writer Alan Moore) and remains one of the most chilling tales of a villain gone too far. Batman: The Killing Joke will also see the return of Kevin Conroy as the voice of Bruce Wayne/Batman and Mark Hamill as the Joker. His conversation doesn’t go according to plan. Conroy, again in this clip, reminds us of how well suited he is for the role.

If critics thought Batman v Superman was a “dark” adaptation, they are definitely going to be awestruck with Batman: The Killing Joke. It took almost three decades, but The Killing Joke will finally be adapted later this month in a new R-rated animated film co-directed by Bruce Timm and Sam Liu, with a script by Brian Azzarello.

Chronicling the Joker’s dark beginnings as a struggling comedian in Gotham city, Batman: The Killing Joke tees up a “fateful encounter with Batman that changes both of their lives forever”.

Batman: The Killing Joke is available on DVD and Blu-Ray August 2nd.