Fantastic in Every Possible Way...

Rating: 10/10 (20 July 2008)

Let me start by saying I have been looking forward to this movie since I first saw Batman Begins. The character development of batman by showing his beginning allowed us to understand him and truly believe his virtues. Chris Nolan's batman isn't like any other batman or any superhero we've come to know through film for that matter; he's deep down just a person. Of course there are special effects and some unrealistic elements, but Nolan's batman leaves out all of the typical overly fantastic elements that make Superhero movies nothing more than some cheap entertainment. Because of this TDK already had a lot going for it. For the hardcore fans and regular movie-goers alike, we are able feel true compassion for Bruce, Rachel, and the remaining uncorrupted souls of Gotham and feel true fear of the Joker and Gotham's villains. We're not accustomed to seeing such depth and overwhelming emotion in such a film.
While the story, intense action, and message in this film make TDK a gem by themselves, the real reason this movie is so incredibly good is because of the phenomenal acting talent of the cast. Christian Bale was perfect in Batman Begins and continues to perform at the highest level here. Ever since his first major role in Empire of the Sun, Bale has been turning heads. If you haven't seen Empire of the Sun, The Machinist, American Psycho, or The Prestige, I recommend them all. He's just brilliant. I probably needn't mention Ledger, but WOW, what a performance. Heath's transformation into the Joker is perhaps one of the most sinister and terrifying things I've ever seen. Many have been talking of a posthumous Academy Award for Ledger and I wasn't sure if I bought it, but after seeing his truly inspiring work in TDK, I don't see any reason why he shouldn't be given such an honor. I could go on for hours about Ledger, but so much of the greatness in the film comes from the others as well. Gary Oldman is hands down regarded as one of the best actors in Hollywood. He's the Eastern terrorist in Air Force One, the alcoholic Irish mobster in State of Grace, the psychotic and corrupt DEA agent in Leon, and Zorg in the Fifth Element. This man has no bounds and remains one of the best character actors ever, giving another top performance here, showing once again his amazing ability to become almost unrecognizable from one role to the next. Michael Caine (one of my favorite actors), Morgan Freeman, and Maggie Gyllenhaal (who I wasn't so sure about at first) are all at there prime here in TDK. I wasn't sure if Aaron Eckhart would do the trick after seeing The Core and some other mediocre films of his, but he shows plenty of talent as well playing the Gotham DA Harvey Dent and of course his more sinister role later in the film. The bottom line is that the acting in the film is easily some of the best I've ever had the privilege to seen.
In short, this film is pure excellence. After seeing it twice, I'm still thinking nothing but Oscar gold. Do yourself a favor and go see this in theaters. It's an experience that will put you on the edge of your seat for all of its glorious 150-some minute runtime. 10/10 for this one, a movie that will undoubtedly become one of the greatest movies of our time.