The best Batman film to date (including "The Dark Knight")

Rating: 8/10 (1 January 2009)

To be honest, I wasn't exactly wowed by "Batman Begins" when I first saw it during its original theatrical run. Sure, I enjoyed it but I didn't feel that it lived up to the hype. Recently I watched it again and was pleasantly surprised with how it compares to the other Batman films.
Let's begin with the cast. This is hands down the best cast ever assembled for a Batman film. Christian Bale was a fine choice for the caped crusader as he can handle both the physical and emotional demands of the character. Liam Neeson always delivers a top-notch performance and he certainly doesn't disappoint here. Cillian Murphy makes for a great villain and it's a real treat to have Michael Caine & Morgan Freeman in supporting roles. It doesn't even stop there; you've got the likes of Rutger Hauer & Tom Wilkinson as well. Too bad Maggie Gyllenhaal hadn't yet replaced Katie Holmes, though.
This 'reboot' takes the story back to the beginning. We see the events that shape Bruce Wayne into Batman. As in the best superhero films there is a certain thrill of excitement as we see the hero coming to grips with their powers and then putting them to the test. Overall, I think that the plot line here was quite satisfying as it managed to bring the franchise back to a more realistic place (though it is a heightened reality, to be sure).
Nolan's direction is well-handled but, as I've said before and will say again, I think that Nolan's reputation stems more from astute taste in selection of projects than in actual technical skill. The Hans Zimmer/James Newton Howard score is also ably handled though it's no match for Danny Elfman's iconic score for the Tim Burton incarnation.
Having also watched both "Batman" & "The Dark Knight" in the last year I feel confident in designating this film as the best of the lot. So, you should certainly check it out if you're looking for a place to start with the series.