Excellent comic movie adaption, but left somewhat disappointed

Rating: 8/10 (10 September 2008)

I have read review after review praising TDK to the max. The hype generated before the movie's release was huge. Obviously, we all expected a movie out of this world.
But did it live up to the hype? In parts yes. But I would'nt put this in the 'masterpiece' bracket...just an excellent movie.
Lets start with the cast. Christian Bale was once again, spot on as Bruce Wayne/Batman...but what was the Batman that voice all about!? It was horrible. You can clearly hear he was forcing it. Michael Caine was as usual, charming. Maggie Gyllenhal did not look the part at all as Rachel Dawes...just like in Begins, another miscast. Aaron Ekhart was quite powerful as Harvey Dent/Two-Face...he bought depth into the character of Harvey Dent (I will comment on Two-Face later). Gary Oldham was superb once again, as Gordon..no surprise from one of the best actor's of our generation. Morgan Freeman, again reprising his role as Fox with class and poignancy. Eric Roberts also did his bit as mafia boss Maroni. Last but not least, Heath Ledger as The Joker...here is a role which was said to be electrifying...and he did'nt disappoint- one of the best villains ever. But did we see enough of The Joker? In my opinion we did'nt...
The script- very good, but there was too much going on at times...I felt the characters were not given enough time to develop. The length of the movie could have done with being cut by about 20mins..it was longer than needed. The final confrontation between Gordon/Two-Face/Batman could have been part of a third instalment, maybe? Some scenes were not explained very well...like Gordon's 'death'..who planned it and why? What was the purpose? Did The Joker really plan to be caught? I think not! Here is psycho a guy with no plans remember, he just 'does things.
I feel it was too easy for the Joker, he was kinda immortal....how did he manage to plant so many bombs without anyone noticing!? Surely, you can't miss a guy in clown make-up! As Batman's most formidable enemy, I believe he was under used...he just seems to pop up here and there..the script does not give enough depth to his character...but full makes to Ledger for portraying the Joker the way he did...psychotic, scary, ghoulish and funny...unforgettable.
As for Two-Face...hugely wasted character (unless there is a twist for and inevitable part 3?)..Just like Venom in Spider-man 3, Two-Face was a disappointment (in terms of the short appearance).
I won't even bother mentioning scarecrow lol! The action/set-pieces were riveting, perfectly directed. The soundtrack, powerful and at times haunting. The Jokers score was perfect, depicting an unpredictable villain.
Lastly, full credit must go to Chris Nolan, who has re-booted the franchise in style.
Overall a must watch...8/10.