The intimidation of TDK combined with the rigor of Batman Begins

Rating: 8/10 (7 January 2013)

Some think The Dark Knight Rises fails because it takes itself too seriously, but I like the film, and the trilogy, as do many, for the same quality they speak of. Nolan brings to life something no previous director (fully) did; the drama and thematic nature of the comics, particularly the graphic novels, and the grit and darkness of the city, maintaining hypothetical realism, notably in the characters, all in a masterful way that doesn't forget what it is and where it comes from, and that's why these films are a cut above the rest. The man's slick, functional storytelling was perfect for Batman; that's how it is in the comics; a tight series of scenes with back-and-forth dialogue with Batman that develops the themes and story, and nothing extraneous. In this context, Bruce Wayne's journey up the hole isn't cheesy, but an exciting plot device. The film has some minor flaws (the music in that one part, and the re-use of The Dark Knight music) but overall it shouldn't disappoint those who were anticipating it. The intimidation of TDK combined with the rigor of Batman Begins, and a very good ending story. 8.6/10.