An epic conclusion to a great trilogy

Rating: 10/10 (20 July 2012)

Nolan has once again outdone himself with The Dark Knight Rises. A thrilling and epic conclusion to the greatest superhero films yet, Rises does not disappoint.
To avoid spoilers, I will refrain from commenting on the plot other than to say t is the most epic and grandiose of the trilogy and has the most "comicy" feel to it. Needless to say, the films draws heavily from its predecessors and brings the story to a fitting conclusion.
Bale gives his best performance as the Batman yet and the familiar side characters Alfred, Gordon, and Fox all continue to be great fun. However, it is the newcomers Hathaway and Hardy that really steal the show. Hathaway plays, in my opinion, the definite Catwoman. Sexual, although not to the point of absurdity, and deadly, Catwoman comes off as being just as formidable as her male counterparts. Hardy brings a visceral physicality to Bane that I have never seen in any other cinematic character before. Each pose and movement belays an immense power and menace. Joseph Gordon-Levitt's character is also well formed, and I was surprised how much I attached I grew to the character.
The special effect and action sequences were also phenomenal. The opening sequence is perhaps the most impressive opening I have ever witnessed.
Overall, the film was fantastic. Yes, it is a bit long and predictable (especially for comic fans) but it is still a must see.