Better than Burton?

Rating: 9/10 (18 June 2005)

It is safe to say that yes, Nolan's vision is superior to Burton's Gothic take on Batman - bar the musical score from Elfman. Although a superb film, Burton's first film never really delved into the detail that made Bruce Wayne the Batman.
Nolan, known for his tasty psychological mysteries and thrillers (Memento, Insominia, Following) has developed a more layered comic book film than Batman (1989) or say, this years Sin City. The story is paced well, showing Bruce's childhood, to his training and to his fight for Gotham. In between we get flashbacks (typical of Nolan)of the guilt that tears at Bruce Wayne. No longer is the reason for Bruce being a bat unexplained - Nolan now brings us a more complete story of Batman.
Who would have thought that Bale was going to be this good as Batman? Hardly a A-list actor beforehand (American Psycho and Empire of the Sun being notable efforts), many had reservations for his interpretation. Needless to say Bale is fantastic as Bruce Wayne/Batman, creating a believable hero, one that is tortured by his past - one that has to control himself from going over the hero/villain mark.
Certain reviewers like Joblo commented on the obvious distinction between Wayne voice and Batman voice being a irritating. I disagree, as not only sounded awesome as Batman, but created the idea of a split personality rather well.
Supporting Bale is Caine as Alfred, who is very good, as is Cillian Murphy as the terrifying Scarecrow. Neeson is an unexpected treat as Ducard too. Holmes as Bruce's love interest, Rachel, is just right. Not the winging "mary-jane" type, Holmes is far more strong character. Freeman as Fox is welcome treat, seeming very relaxed in this role. Oldman was a surprise a Gordon, as he looked the part (like the animated series), and was likable - but that jarred against the other imperfect characters.
Only some of the film grated me - but admittedly, it was not Nolan or his teams fault. At the start in Wayne's training with Ducard I felt like I was watching the trailer all over again. I thought the trailer would be the basics of the training - but it turned out to be nearly all of it! This was not a huge problem, but the fast editing and clichÃ©d training sequence was a bit out of place. Still, it got to the point.
Definitely the best film so far of the "blockbuster" season. Star Wars Episode 3 is completely blown away, whilst Sin City, although fantastic and great fun, is edged out by this more rounded effort.
So well done to Nolan and co - the bar was raised by Sin City, only to be notched up by this great effort. Certainly is something to go batty over.