And so it begins.

Rating: 10/10 (2 October 2014)

Greetings all, This may come as a moderately biased review, but to be honest, it is my favourite film of all time so I have very little criticisms. I apologise for what follows.
Firstly I say what a pleasure it is to see Nolan's non-linear timescales playing a major role in this feature, and to great effect might I add. Drawing reference from the past to seamlessly flesh out a rich back story while progressing the present time line works in sublime fashion here.
The much darker tone is conveyed wonderfully with connotations of inner-turmoil and unresolved issues from Christain Bale. And while the comedy is kept to a minimum, it remains accessible to nearly all ages.
A simple, fairly stereotypical plot backdrops the character development, but it is done in such a manner that when the crescendo looms it is a believable, satisfying climax.
I must applaud the casting, as Bale is a chameleon, from the clean-cut Bruce Wayne to the juxtaposition of a brooding, animalistic Batman. Liam Neeeson plays the villain with such class and ruthless resolve that the often intertwining ideologies driving these two main characters converge and diverge in true manner. Which, all the while, gives rise to a setting that becomes something akin to reality, one of the most defining characteristics of this film.
Hans Zimmer, as ever, writes and unforgettable score that marries both dark and light, calm and frantic, and leaves massive inspiration for future filmmakers.
Great set design, costume design and locations are the icing on the cake here, as all layers come together, producing what I consider to be a masterpiece.
To it's detriment, perhaps, the film is rather lengthy and may not hold the attention of every viewer for the full length.
It has been so long since the days of Michael Keaton or Val Kilmer as Batman, on might have wondered if any director would be able to do better what was done then. Happily I can say that in many ways this films surpasses all expectations, and I hold it in the highest regard.
This is my benchmark for films of any genre now, and I sincerely doubt it will be beaten in every aspect.