Best Superhero Movie Ever

Rating: 10/10 (24 June 2005)

I usually reserve judgment on movies until months after I've seen them in order to be able to properly reflect on how they compare with other movies...but in this case, it's safe to say that Batman Begins is the best superhero movie EVER! This is the way the movie should have been done in 1989 (begin a franchise with the character's origin...what a concept!!!). Let me also say that I've been an avid comic book collector for the past 25 years, to include Batman. I never liked any of the first four Batman films, although I gained an appreciation for the first Batman after watching the horrendous "Batman and Robin" by Joel Schumacher. I also thought Val Kilmer did a good job as Batman, despite the fact that he was burdened with a terrible script.
That said, Christian Bale's performance is the definitive Bruce Wayne/Batman. The story draws you in immediately and makes you understand why Bruce took his course of action in becoming Batman (much more believable than Anakin's transformation to Darth Vader). Supporting cast is the best of any superhero movie...check out the interaction between Bruce and Alfred, Bruce and Lucius, Batman and Gordon, even Bruce and Rachel (I'm one of the few who didn't think Katie Holmes' performance was that bad). Ra's Al Gould and the Scarecrow are great villains who don't steal the show from the hero (as in previous Batman films...actually making a Batman film about Batman--what a concept!!!) Top off great acting, a great story, pulse- pounding action, and the best Batmobile of the franchise, and you've got the best superhero movie ever (X-Men 2 is a close second, followed by the Spider-Man films and Superman I and II). A must see, and one of those rare films I give a 10/10.