Best Batman film ever and best film of the year thus far.

Rating: 9/10 (20 July 2012)

Today, I watched one of the greatest films I've ever seen in my life. This film is called 'The Dark Knight Rises'.
Here's the official synopsis of TDKR: "It has been eight years since Batman vanished into the night, turning, in that instant, from hero to fugitive. Assuming the blame for the death of D.A. Harvey Dent, the Dark Knight sacrificed everything for what he and Commissioner Gordon both hoped was the greater good. For a time the lie worked, as criminal activity in Gotham City was crushed under the weight of the anti-crime Dent Act. But everything will change with the arrival of a cunning cat burglar with a mysterious agenda. Far more dangerous, however, is the emergence of Bane, a masked terrorist whose ruthless plans for Gotham drive Bruce out of his self-imposed exile. But even if he dons the cape and cowl again, Batman may be no match for Bane."
Now, onto my review, some minor spoilers ahead though:
Story: The Dark Knight Rises started as a slightly slow paced film and quite frankly I got a little bored but as it progresses the pacing became much better. Even though boredom may occur at the first act of the film, you must not waste even a minute of watching this for as every second and minute is essential to the films continuity.
Acting: The acting in this film is just superb, everybody in the cast did a stellar and unforgettable performance, but the one who really shines in this awesome spectacle is Anne Hathaway and Michael Caine, every lines delivered, every action made, just wow! Christian Bale also did great and for me this is his best portrayal of the billionaire playboy and caped crusader. Tom Hardy was a menacing Bane but let's face it, The Joker is still the best villain. Joseph Gordon-Levitt plays a good ally of Batman and also puts on a great performance. Gary Oldman, same as before, perfect casting for Jim Gordon. Marion Cotillard also puts on a good performance but a forgettable one (for me). Morgan Freeman and Matthew Modine, even though only a short screen time also showed a good performance.
Soundtrack: I thought Hans Zimmer will not be able to top himself after 'The Dark Knight' but he did top himself in this one, the soundtracks was just mesmerizing, haunting and memorable. He is definitely one of the best working composers today.
Cinematography: One word. Awesome. Wally has never been this good, every shot is just perfect.
Direction: Chris Nolan did it again and delivered not only one of the most memorable Batman film but he also gave us one of the most memorable films ever that will be talked about for the years to come. Nolan gave it his all, and in my opinion this the best film that he ever made.
Final Verdict: The Dark Knight Rises is the perfect way to end a trilogy. A 2 hour and 45 minutes of sheer awesomeness and utter brilliance, all from the mind of a master filmmaker (well for me anyways) Christopher Nolan. For me this is the best film in the trilogy and epic is the perfect word to describe this film. This is much more action-packed than all the other Bat-films. I am sure to catch this one again on theaters. 10/10 A brilliant masterpiece by Christopher Nolan.
My top 5 comic book movies: 1. The Dark Knight Rises 2. Watchmen 3. The Dark Knight 4. The Avengers 5. Batman Begins
P.S. My condolences to the families of the people involved in the shooting at Colorado. May God bless their souls.