It's time to call it a (K)night

Rating: 8/10 (23 July 2012)

The retired Knight is forced to return from retirement to rescue his city from the evil that is just round the corner, Bane.
This movie has the makings of a thrilling superhero flick: the plot, adroitly scripted; the role of each of the characters, well-conceived; the cinematography, exquisite; the effects, stunning; and the holes in the storyline, absent. The movie does not disappoint, not even after all the hype that preceded the release.
Nolan stitches up a flawless plot, and does so while justifying the inclusion and necessity of the characters through the respective roles he has carved out for them. The dialogues complement and sustain the intensity of the action sequences. Particularly enticing are the exchanges, both verbal and physical, between Batman/Bruce and Bane. Also, the emotional bond between Bruce and his butler-cum-aide, Alfred, who feels defeated after not having impressed upon his master to pursue an alternate life, is depicted to perfection. It must be said that with no Joker to keep the audience on the edge with his evil genius, the cast does well to fill the vacuum.
Christian Bale's (Batman's) performance is central to the success of this film. Additionally, the performances of several characters, especially Anne Hathaway (Catwoman), whose clinging black outfit and striking agility bring an element of sensuality to any scene she's in, contribute immeasurably to the film by exceeding expectations. Tom Hardy (Bane, who is claimed to be the only villain to have "Broken the Bat") looks his menacing best, exerting absolute physical, and also mental, domination over the Batman.
Sadly though, this movie calls a halt to an exceptional journey. It is one of the best superhero series and the final installment delivers a fitting end to a thrilling trilogy. Watch it. Relish it. Cherish it. For there may be none like it.