One of the greatest films I have ever seen

Rating: 10/10 (29 July 2012)

If I had to use one word to describe The Dark Knight it would be one of the following: astounding, incredible, unforgettable, mesmerising, awe-inspiring, masterpiece, unmissable, amazing, gripping, inconceivable, captivating, dizzying, enthralling... And the list of superlatives could go on and on, and these words will probably featuring too much in my review. It's amazing to think that I've been missing out on this hype for about four years, having only just watched it last night (or should I say Knight), it took me a while to sink my teeth into Batman Begins because I thought it was going to be just another naff superhero film, but I actually ended up loving it! After I couldn't wait any longer I snapped The Dark Knight up for the incredible price of £6.00 on blu-ray (that's about $10 I think) and prepared myself to watch it. Although, I was scared that it wasn't going to live up to the hype, it did.
The Dark Knight makes Batman Begins look like kids stuff. It can proudly sit amongst Christopher Nolan's other 5 star masterpieces (Memento, The Prestige, Inception) and make friends with every single one of them. Because Christopher Nolan hasn't created a superhero film, but a straight-up adult crime thriller. It's much more mature than Batman Begins and I was surprised and Begins' maturity, because a superhero film suggests that a hint of slight comic violence or caper is going to be involved (even Begins had the comic idea of crazy gas being poured into the city's drain pipes) but there isn't a single camp feature in The Dark Knight thanks to it being so cemented in reality its unreal!
The Dark Knight is only rated a 12A because of the merchandising that appeals to young children, but I would not let anyone under 12 watch this. Although no blood is seen, the violence is still pretty horrific with an absolutely frightening and truly psychotic villain which children aren't going to take too lightly. The first hour or so is also incredibly intricate and showcases Nolan brothers outstanding writing skills, which kids are not going to understand in the slightest. Even I found it hard to follow and I'm 17 going on 18! So remember parents, just because its got Batman in, doesn't mean its the hyper-camp 60's TV show that you used to watch! This is an adult Batman (and I don't mean that in a weird porn way) it's incredibly dark. The hefty running time of two and a half hours will also make kids restless, however this film suits being an epic and I didn't want it to end!
The action is absolutely mesmerising with some truly unforgettable set-pieces that had my jaw on the floor (The lorry chase sequence was one of the highlights for me) these are heart-pounding action sequences that have an incredible intensity about them because they just feel so real and directed with style! Not only does it make the film unbelievably entertaining to watch, but it makes it utterly captivating and involving, just willing you not to take your eyes off the incredible action that's unfolding. But of course, this isn't just about astounding action sequences (although they do thankfully have a major part) there is also an equally involving and very human story underneath that has you cheering for Batman and cowering from the Joker.
Which brings me on to that little chestnut. Heath Ledger's performance as the Joker is just as legendary as everyone says it is. You might dismiss and think "well they're only saying that because he's dead" but even if he was alive, he wouldn't lose an ounce of respect. He is absolutely terrifying and a captivating character. Most villains have an objective or motive, but the Joker just wants to cause absolute chaos. And he succeeds. He's like a one-man version of 'Project Chaos' from Fight Club, which makes him one of the most compelling and captivating villains of all time. He leaves Batman in the shade, which is fine because he had his time to shine in Batman Begins! The rest of the cast is superb too. Christian Bale again makes a very suitable Batman, Michale Caine and Morgan Freeman are of course as amazing as ever and the character of Rachel is also made much more interesting and deeper, perhaps down to the wonderful Maggie Gyllenhal (is that how you spell it?) who plays her. I also thought that Harvey Dent would be quite a dull character (probably because of his profession) but he actually turned out to be an incredibly emotional character, played with brilliant humanity by Aaron Eckhart (of Conversations With Other Women fame). Dent's transition is brilliant and his make-up is Oscar-winning stuff (you'll see what I mean).
I also have to comment on the incredible music throughout. The score is mesmerising and especially the Joker's theme which really increases the tension and intensity. The music lifts the film straight off the ground just to reaffirm its classic status.
The Dark Knight is just pure escapism. By the end of it you feel as if you've stepped into Gotham City and had a deliciously dark tour of a place that feels too real to be true. It's incredibly entertaining and the dynamic relationship between Batman and the Joker is absolutely enthralling. It's jam-packed with breath-taking and intense action sequences and Christopher Nolan has definitely matured in directing. His direction is jaw-dropping at times and the Ariel shots of the city literally made me gasp in awe. There is also some wonderful moments of smouldering tension as well as iconic scene after iconic scene. Throw in a beautifully intricate script, amazing performances and an ending to die for and you have one truly amazing film. You know a film is good when an ending gives you chills and this one did, and that doesn't happen too often. I can't wait to see The Dark Knight Rises! (hopefully soon!)