An epic conclusion to an amazing trilogy.

Rating: 9/10 (19 July 2012)

I do think this, as a film, tops The Dark Knight and is a worthy sequel and end to the trilogy. Nolan is always getting better and better.
Plot: it's quite complicated, but will keep you on your toes the whole ride. It's necessary to have watched the previous two films to understand this film's plot and enjoy it. The storyline is solid and the ending of this film is just perfect. My biggest gripe is the development of Miranda Tate, which seemed rather rushed. But this film did not feel like three hours.
Characters: Michael Caine was brilliant as Alfred, as always. The most heartfelt and strongest performance of the film. Christian Bale, Joseph Gordon Levitt, and Gary Oldman also do not disappoint. I absolutely loved John Blake's character and wouldn't change a thing about it. Batman's emotional roller coaster is much stronger in this film. I do feel Marion Cotillard did a great job, but was given a bit too little to work with. Anne Hathaway was not my favorite Catwoman, but still had a good fit for Nolan's tone of the series.
Tom Hardy was put in tough shoes as the successor to the Joker. He still did a great job, and Bane was a great choice of a villain. However, I feel The Joker was a superior villain. The Joker was much more interesting, terrifying, and ultimately memorable.
I was not expecting this film to be better than TDK, but Nolan surprised me once again. I highly recommend watching this movie, but make sure to watch the first two beforehand. The special effects are mind blowing.