Product: Batman Begins (Two-Disc Deluxe Edition) (2005)
Rating: 5.0
Batman returns and dreams it all up again-The Right Way!
Batman Begins is such a good, involving film, it almost renders all past film incarnations obsolete! The only one worth mentioning in a positive light from now on is Tim Burton's 1989 original-but I still liked this better.Christian Bale is absolutely dead-on as Batman/Bruce Wayne! I remember being pleased with the news of his casting, but his performance exceeded my expectations. He nails both the intensity and the wry humor the character should always have, and he actually looks the part of both Bruce (handsome playboy) and Batty (physically intimidating, athletic). The supporting cast here is quite impressive (They actually support without taking away from the central character. Genius!). Michael Caine is actually better than the previous Alfred, which is saying a lot! Morgan Freeman is reliable as ever, as is Gary Oldman. Liam Neeson is also in fine form in what you initially think is an obvious prototype performance as the wise mentor. Even Katie Holmes comes off at least as good as Kirsten Dunst did in Spiderman.Other helpful attributes to this film are it's story, which thankfully takes the time to explain itself and, as a result, all the usual Batman myths become more than just convenient plot devices. Also, the tone of the movie just feels right. It's dark and serious when necessary, always edgy, and adds just the right amount of quirky winking humor at just the right times. This is probably due to Christopher Nolan's more-than-capable directing. He is a real talent and has yet to have a misstep in his short but impressive career. The music is typical Hans Zimmer material without much of a theme (not a criticism) and not very comic-book sounding a la Danny Elfman, but still evokes a since of legend and excitement.Overall, Batman Begins is a real summer treat! An entertaining film that rings true on just about every level. This lumbering franchise has been both redeemed and taken to new heights, and I for one can't wait to see how it unfolds this time in sequel form. As long as they keep the essential elements of this film intact, it should be a very enjoyable ride!