Batman Begins is Off the Hook!

Rating: 10/10 (15 June 2005)

I realized in the wee hours this morning that Hollywood has been presenting us with more recycled, reused garbage than I ever allowed myself to see before. Batman Begins has opened my eyes. From the first few minutes of this film I was keenly aware that I was watching something completely original. The tone that Chris Nolan and cinematographer Wally Pfister have created for this movie is something entirely new to me. It is more epic feeling that Gladiator and drew me effortlessly into the depths of the film. Yes folks, it's true, I loved Batman Begins.
I admit I am not an unbiased viewer. I wanted this movie to be brilliant more than anything in the world and damn it I knew it would be brilliant. I can however offer a distinct look from the Batman aficionado angle. As a girl who has a thorough appreciation for the intricacy and depth of the Batman comics I was grateful for the enormous effort made to create rich characters. Every character in this film has depth. It's simply stunning. On the other hand I can see how the average person who does not have a comic book background might ho-hum at this sort of movie. Some don't want to have to think and some don't want to have dynamic characters. Needless to say there is enough action here to satisfy even the basest viewer.
Christian Bale steals the show. He is magnificentdare I say, Oscar-worthy? He seems to have a solid grasp of Bruce Wayne and his many personas and plays them all with fierce determination. The filmmakers were so confident in their choice that they often let the camera dwell upon him for lengthy moments so we can see his emotions and practically feel them as well. There are very few actors who are capable of such a feat (that would have been appropriate for the role). Some scene's left me giddy in my seat, swearing under my breath because I couldn't believe how utterly unhinged Bale was as the bat (Flass's interrogation comes to mind).
And did I mention the score? While on it's own it feels a little disjointed, the score takes these brilliantly crafted moments and adds that buttercream frosting onto it. There is one particular scene in which Batman is in the Narrows facing Dr. Crane (involving a bit of fire) where the music is absolutely perfect. You feel like you're failing with Bruce when he does, you feel like you're angry when he is it's crazy good. It's all because of this excellent soundtrack.
The supporting cast is unparalleled. They disappear into the story as if they've never starred in their own film before. It's amazing. Michael Caine's Alfred is probably my second favorite role after Bruce. He delivers a fantastic performance that wrenched my heart many a time. Gary Oldman was convincing and sympathetic. He is Gordon. Neeson so good. Even Katie Holmes did great and I knew she would surprise me. Even among all these great talents she did not stand out negatively. She blended in pretty well with the rest.
The production design for this movie is going to win an Oscar. That's my prediction. Gotham looks stunning, sprawling real. Everything was real about this movie. I don't think I've ever been so drawn into a film before. My adrenaline was rushing so much I was able to drive through the night three hours back to my parents house in Eastern, MA. Whoa, man. Whoa. My heart thumped under my ribs throughout. I could not control my incredulous potty mouth. No movie has ever had this kind of effect on me.
Before I saw Begins I'd already bought tickets to see the show three times this week. For good measure I'll be going a fourth time. Five stars dammit!