Product: Batman Begins (Two-Disc Deluxe Edition) (2005)
Rating: 5.0
A remake that was worth doing
I absolutely loved the 1989 Batman movie with Micahel Keaton and Jack Nicholson, so when I learned they were going to discard that and start from a clean slate, I was a bit bothered. The other three films that follwed the 89 version didn't bother me at all, in fact, I rather hated those. Sure enough, after seeing Batman Begins it couldn't really fill the place as a prequal to the 89 version. Events had already been retold. But after a few viewings of this Christopher Nolan masterpiece, I had began to make the transformation over to the new series, as it really is one of the finest comic book films ever created - period.I can't think of one bad thing to really say about this film. Unlike some comic book movies, this one takes itself very seriously (yet still holds a certain amount of humor too). The 1989 Batman had a bit of serious edge to it, and its followers disregarded that. Begins is like the 89 version, only more. The story goes deep. We not only learn of how Bruce Wayne becomes Batman, but we literally follow him step by step and get into his mind. There are complications that go beyond simple revenge of his parent's death. Bruce must administor justice, but how can justice be properly used in such a corrupt society as Gotham? Its a very intriguing story, and the characters are fantastic, adding to the depth. An incredible mixed cast of Liam Neeson, Micahel Caine, Morgan Freeman and Katie Holmes are a few of the actors that shine in this film. Then there is Christian Bale, who brings a dark toughness to the role of Batman we have never seen before. Indeed, the movie as a whole is very dark, but with enlightening messages.The action is pretty tough in this film too. The fights aren't too flashy, but more realistic than in prior films. The new batmobile is actually more like a tank, called the Tumbler. Unlike the previous batmobiles, this one is a little less flashy, but fully armed and can crush anything. One of the most exciting parts of the film is when the Tumbler is being chased by cops throuhgout the town, and creates quite the wreckage along the way.I could go on and on about the great things about this film, but it is honestly worth seeing. If you are skeptical about remakes, like me, this one will probably win you over once you realize how good it is. Especially since they are coming out with the sequal the Dark Knight which appears to be on the same level as this film, I can easily dismiss the older Batman titles in favor of the new series.Acting - 4.5Action - 4.5Characters - 5Story - 5Overall - 5