In this sequel to Batman Begins, Batman returns to combat the Joker and Two Face

Rating: 9/10 (18 July 2008)

Christian Bales portrayal of Batman was, once again, phenomenal (yet expected). However, Heath ledger's performance stole the show. One might come to the conclusion that his death might play a part in all the Oscar hype surrounding his performance; I can guarantee you, this is not the case. Regardless of whether you are familiar with the comics, or the original Batman, the way in which Heath ledger played the part of The Joker was exceptional. He was, in all essence, disgustingly insane yet humorous. I could not ask for a better performance.
Now, we all know, gathering from all the reviews listed on numerous sites, The Dark Knight is simply a masterpiece. What many are not discussing are the negative aspects of this movie. Aspects that hinder this film from receiving a ten star rating on my part.
Rachel Dawes (played by Maggie Gyllenhaal) was yet again a weak character. All through out the movie, Christopher Nolan pushes her character on to the audience, hoping they would fall in love with her. He fails to deliver. Deep down inside, I would have preferred she died early on in Batman Begins. Batman can fall in love (as is the case with Catwoman or Ra's Al Ghul's daughter) but not Bruce Wayne. It is difficult to imagine Bruce Wayne as the type to fall in love. He is simply an alter ego, a decoy, who does not care about nor trust just about anyone but Alfred, his butler. It really destroys any perceptions you might have of Bruce Wayne as being this born-rich, careless, playboy.
The action scenes were very reminiscent of Batman from the days of Adam West. I figured if I were in the shoes of those goons, I'd probably be able to put up a good fight considering how slow and inefficient the movements were. Although I do understand the fact that the costume might be a bit restrictive, but that's nothing a little creativity and movie magic can't fix. It seemed as though the hand to hand combat scenes were last on the list of things to focus on. I had more fun watching Batman fight Catwoman in Tim Burton's Batman Returns. I couldn't be more unsatisfied with an "action" movie.
Did the Batcycle seem a bit slow or was that just me? ALl in all, I can't think of a better movie to watch this year, or a better action movie throughout time.
I just hope the next installment of Batman focuses on his loneliness, and diminishing hope in the battle against evil in Gotham. Because it should only get worse. And please focus on ONE arch nemesis, or tone down the number of characters involved to allow more room for character development. The Joker seems to appear out of no where. And Two face doesn't properly deal with Rachel's death at the pace any average person might. That was rushed beyond belief.
Despite these flaws, this move was well wroth the $11 i spent to watch it. I can't say that for the many other films I've seen in the past decade.