Dark and gritty and... 'Serious'

Rating: 10/10 (11 May 2017)

Shattering the high standards that he set for himself in 'Batman Begins', Nolan's 'The Dark Knight' presents us with a challenging movie that delves into the psyche of the characters, the good ones' and the bad ones' alike. While we are busy dissecting and analysing the ideological battle between Batman and the Joker, the plot moves quickly and affects everyone involved in it. The Nolans' masterful screenplay never misses a step and ensures that no character is unaffected by the events that poses serious questions directed towards their values and beliefs. The culmination of this roller-coaster ride of a movie is one that transforms all of them.
The cast is brilliant. Christian Bale once again gracefully juggles between Bruce Wayne and Batman. Morgan Freeman, Michael Caine and Gary Oldman does what they do best. Maggie Gyllenhaal, taking over the role of Rachel Dawes from Katie Holmes, had a much better screen presence and was able to bring much more authenticity to her character. Aaron Eckhart's performance is commendable but the real star of the movies is Heath Ledger. Armed with a well written character, Heath Ledger's Joker is one of the most menacing villains we have ever seen in movies.
Christopher Nolan's 'The Dark Knight' is nothing short of a masterpiece and one that will forever be an inspiration to movie makers. Last but not the least, Rest in peace Heath Ledger.