Batman clearly begins, but doesn't get going.

Rating: 4/10 (18 June 2005)

Warners attempt at re-imagining the Batman franchise will certainly prove to be a money maker, but many will feel disappointed by this one.
The comic book elements that the original movies established so well has been abandoned here, so the dark, unsettled and distinctly "fantasy" world of Gotham City is reduced to a more reality-based vision. Everything from the skyline, cars, suit, weapons and characters all feel a little too viable in todays society, then to fit into this now legendary fictional city.
While a great idea to show how our hero "begins" and an obviously fresh perspective into this character, many will feel frustrated when an hour into the movie, the Batman has still not been revealed in all his suited glory.
Those not familiar with the first four movies will surely be impressed with this beginning and there is much to celebrate here. It is essentially a well told story and the direction is clearly solid. The cast is also impressive, however, the acting heavy-weights such as Morgan Freeman, Michael Caine & Gary Oldman, clearly outclass the acting of Bale and that is something that really undermines this one. When you leave a movie having a deeper memory of the supporting characters then the lead, something has definitely gone wrong somewhere.