Not so "Dark" Knight

Rating: 7/10 (19 July 2012)

I would like to start this review by highlighting that I am a fan of Batman, and also a fan of Christian Bale.
For me this was a very good film...... BUT - It was not a Batman film.
Before you shoot me down in flames - let me explain.
For me Batman is perfectly played out in the original Batman (Tim Burton version) Its Dark its gritty and yet it still has an element of fantasy and mystery) The Dark Knight rises is lacking the darkness that should be in a batman movie. There was far too much light! Whilst the film had some classic flash backs to his childhood etc, I think the point of Bruce Wayne being emotionally scared by the loss of his parents is missing.
Finally - For me Batman was not really in the film... He had less screen time than most of the other actors....
I also felt that by lowering the certificate to a 12A they have compromised on the realism, Shoot out scenes and bone breaking action seems cut or missing All in all it was a good film and worth a watch, But I would not put it in the same league as Batman / Batman Returns / Batman Begins / Dark Knight.