'Upset the established order, and everything becomes, chaos'

Rating: 10/10 (3 July 2017)

A richly thrilling action crime epic. Not only does the film boast the greatest antagonist on film ever, and the coolest of protagonists, The Dark Knight's script is unbelievably action packed and fun for any audience, yet thought provoking simultaneously. Hans Zimmer's exceptional score only elevates the dark and gritty atmosphere of the film brought together by sensational performances from Heath Ledger and Christian Bale in particular as the Joker and Batman respectively.
Characters: The Joker, plays perhaps the most chaotic and unrestrained character ever to embrace the silver screen. He has no limits and destruction is his sole satisfaction, he can not be bought or compromised with, contrary to Batman's firm belief that any and all criminals will crumble under fear or money. Batman is pushed to the very boundary of his moral righteousness when he is forced to deal with a nemesis who does not fear death, in fact, does not fear at all, and due to the support from the mob and growing corruption, is able to turn Gotham into a living nightmare. As the Joker stays ahead of the game, Batman is forced to reconsider his position as vigilante.
Plot/Story: Despite being a portrayal of moral code, The Dark Knight, with the Joker's unprecedented actions, is a non-stop action fest. Batman, using his detective skills whilst working with Gordon attempts to track down the Joker and what ensues is a traditional yet iconic battle of good and evil. Both Christpher and Jonathon Nolan acknowledge the grounded reality in which they approach the superhero in and through the Joker, a superhero's credentials are questioned. The plot is brilliant, the audience is left anticipating the next move of the Joker whilst being intrigued by his natural lunacy as well as waiting for Batman to find a resolution.
Acting: Heath Ledger gives, arguably the greatest performance of all time, he seems to have been ripped right out of a Batman comic book, whilst adding a further darker and menacing tone to the already psychotic villain. His performance is mesmerising and he truly steals every scene he's in. Christian Bale's Batman/Bruce Wayne is fantastic, he clearly brings across the coolness we have come to associate with Batman whilst also embodying the 'world's greatest detective'.
Verdict: The Dark Knight is the greatest of its genre, action crime epic, none other come even close. Not only is the plot so intricate, but the characters are so brilliantly portrayed. The action scenes are phenomenal, and when the Joker is on screen, it feels like we're witnessing some of the greatest scenes in film history. The film deals with moral code and its dark tone only further intensifies the constant battle between the notorious Joker and righteous Batman. 10/10, only the second film to ever be given the perfect rating by myself, it's that good.