Realism in a comic book story

Rating: 9/10 (16 June 2005)

PERSONAL REACTION: The reason I have loved Batman since I was little is because it was technically possible for a man to do the things he did. It was not probable, but a lot of stories aren't probable. The story was always about more than good versus evil. The Batman stories are about self-sacrifice and a dedication to perfection of your craft. Christopher Nolan understands that aspect of the fascination people have with the Batman story and uses it to ground his movie.
CASTING: Casting for this movie was excellent. As Bruce Wayne Christian Bale is perfect. I believed in his obsession with justice. Bale seems more comfortable as Wayne than he does being Batman but that works for this film since the story is about Wayne discovering Batman in himself.
The rest of the cast does an above average job - especially Gordon and Dr. Crane. Morgan Freeman as Lucius Foxx is warm, intelligent and likable but brings nothing to this role that he has not brought to every other film he's done.
OVERALL: The movie is well directed, well acted and above all... realistic. It incorporates many of the greatest 'scenes' from the Batman comic series (especially Frank Miller's "Batman: Year One") blended with an all new plot created for the film. A harmonious blend sure to please comic aficionados and new comers alike.