Batman begins for real this time

Rating: 7/10 (26 March 2006)

I really enjoyed this film. I did not hold up high hopes for another 'Batman' film, and was really surprised.
I don't think this film should be viewed as part of the preexisting Batman franchise. In a way, it erases those films and starts all over again. Don't expect it to fit in with any prior films or the campy TV series.
This is a serious film, and is much more sophisticated than anything else with Batman in the title. There is a somewhat complex story, and it brings up serious issues to think about.
The movie starts off somewhat subdued as we learn the genesis of Batman. It flourishes into a full blown Hollywood action adventure, that maybe goes a bit over the top. Because of this, there is some lack of balance or coherency that bothered me a bit.
Still, this minor point can be overlooked as the film was thoroughly entertaining and engaging. Never a dull moment. The production values were top notch, as was the cast. Forget what you know about previous 'Batman' films and view this as a fresh start. Batman begins for real this time.