exhilarating! breathes life back into the series

Rating: Null/10 (23 June 2005)

Engaging "restart" to the Batman franchise with Bale well-cast and commanding as Bruce Wayne-a disillusioned young man who, as a child witnessed the murder of his parents, and then travelled abroad. Years later, he returns home to find Gotham City decaying from corruption and organized crime. Aided by his loyal butler (Caine, who provides the film's heart and soul), a steadfast attorney and childhood friend (an underwhelming but effective Holmes), and a scrupulously honest cop (the ever intriguing Oldman), he becomes Batman to strike fear into the hearts of criminals and reclaim the city for its citizens. Dark, brooding, and atmospheric, the film captures the spirit of the 1989 original while still managing to explore a new chapter of the Batman saga; slows down occasionally due to the film's sheer length, but the performances are rock solid, the characters deep and riveting, and the story always involving. Bale anchors the film as the new caped crusader, aided immeasurably by seasoned veterans Neeson (in an unexpectedly forceful performance), Freeman (as always a joy to watch), and Wilkinson (providing one of the film's most colorful supporting roles). Murphy gives an eerie performance as a creepy doctor, and Watanabe makes his presence felt as a deadly ninja. The action scenes could benefit from some tightening, but director Nolan proves himself more than worthy at the helm. ***