This is not a Redo & Fits Well as Prequel to other Batman Films

Rating: 8/10 (30 June 2005)

This film does not redo the previous Batman films which have been made in the last 20 years. In a sense, this is a prequel to them as it tells the story from childhood until adulthood. It introduces Bruce Waynes parents and illustrates where the bat obsession comes from.
The special effects are very well done and Michael Caine is excellent as Alfred the Butler. Other supporting players including the man at Wayne Enterprises department which houses all the technology provide excellent support. This film does not make the mistake of glorifying the criminal that is often made in telling Batman stories. I think this trap gets fallen into often because that is what the 1960's TV series does consistently.
For once the criminals are not larger than life and this benefits the telling of the Batman story. While the film does run long, it does not seem as long while you watch it as it is. Rooting for BATMAN is easy and because a good story dominates with plenty of action, the film does not get sidetracked by the girlfriend & love either. There is a female to be interested in, but Batman seems more real in the Bruce Wayne role of becoming the Caped Crusader by not having a girl to tie up his every minute.
Even the police get a better rap in this film. Often Batman films make them look like complete bumblers, but in this one they are actually somewhat capable, though somewhat misguided in their enforcement of justice. The more serious tone of this saga is welcome.