7 of our all-time favorite film versions of Batman supervillains

The Riddler (Batman Forever)

The Riddler, also known as Edward Nigma, was the other foe to contend with in Batman Forever. His character feels a little more rounded out than Two-Face in this film, maybe because we see his origin. I was about to describe this villain as “more grounded” than Tommy Lee Jones’ Two-Face, but who am I kidding? This was not the era of Jim Carrey’s most grounded performances. He was definitely reaching the height of his fame for his slapstick physical comedy and his rapid-fire impressions. Surely that is why he was cast in the role of the Riddler.

The Riddler, like most of Batman’s enemies, utilizes the power of the mind to defeat his opponents. He studies behavioral and cognitive science, and harnesses his technical ability to suck the intellect out of his victim’s heads and put it in his own.

The Riddler has the potential to be terrifying because he is a reflection of how we can become our own worst enemy. Even though this film completely misses the mark in that respect, I think this portrayal is a gallant effort on Carrey’s part. Also I’ve always been a huge Jim Carrey fan, so I’m biased.