Phenomenal

Rating: 9/10 (18 July 2012)

Batman Begins was a milestone in its own right. The Dark Knight was one of the best experiences ever created in the history of cinema. It had everything: from superb acting and script to phenomenal direction and special effects. To be the first and only superhero movie to actually identify with an audience was truly a remarkable achievement. Not only did it bring alive the fantasy of comic books, but it engaged viewers in such a way that we were compelled to be immersed in the fantasy world as if it were reality. It managed to grasp the idea of childish comic books so well, but yet also evolved it into a mature movie.
In order for the latest instalment, The Dark Knight Rises (TDKR), to be on par with the original Dark Knight (TDK), it would have required a miracle. The trailers from months ago always managed to put a chill down my spine, but I always questioned whether it could reach the same level of greatness as TDK did.
I immensely enjoyed TDKR. I won't make much comparison with TDK yet, but I will say this. One of the most fascinating elements of TDK was to actually end the movie in "darkness." Batman sacrificed his reputation and fell into darkness, taking the hit for all of Harvey Dent's misconduct in order to protect Gotham City. This ending was essentially what emphasised the very fine line between good and evil, and how, in some circumstances, it is simply not distinguishable.
TDKR had a very good opportunity to expand on this idea. The extent to which it did so ultimately determined its success of failure. I think it did a pretty good job.
The acting was superb yet again. Christian Bale is the finest Batman to date, not to mention the numerous other well known actors who each carried their own respectively. The special effects are beyond magical. The script is solid. TDKR proved to be a very entertaining experience.
All of the Batman titles have been extraordinary, TDKR no doubt. Nevertheless, my personal preference is the original Batman Begins. The story-arc of Batman, good and evil, and morality is much more in depth. TDK would be second on my list merely because the Joker was my favourite villain. Even though TDKR comes third, it is, like I have said, a great addition to the rest of the Batman movies. It needs to be viewed.