The Dark Knight (2008)
The Dark Knight
This is often regarded as the best Batman movie ever put to screen, though I don’t agree with that statement. That would be true, if The Batman never came out. The story is pretty good, and it flows together nicely. One thing about it I really like is how there are almost two different plots. The movie obviously focuses on the Joker and his dastardly plans, but it also focuses on Gotham’s fight against organized crime. It gives you two different things to pay attention to, while still intertwining them. Also, like Batman Begins, this movie doesn’t just focus on a single villain, but brings in two. I really like how the entire Dark Knight trilogy does that. Heath Ledger’s performance as the Joker absolutely carries this movie, which to me, is why it’s so good. If he wasn’t in it, the film definitely wouldn’t be as critically acclaimed as it is. But even without Heath, the movie is still amazing. Although I like Bale’s Batman in the first movie, I’m much less of a fan of him in this one. His voice really gets on my nerves, as it’s more deep and growly than Batman Begins. However, the Dark Knight suit is much better than the Begins suit. Also, the introduction of the Batcycle was absolutely amazing. I’ve never been a huge fan of the Tumbler, so seeing a new vehicle is refreshing. And there’s just something awesome about seeing Batman’s cape flap in the wind. All the vehicle chase scenes are really well shot, and provide a really exciting experience. The entire cast does a really great job, especially Ledger and Eckhart. I’ve always really liked the Joker and Two-Face, so having both of them show up in the same film makes it really special to me. Plus, to me, it’s the best Two-Face design ever put onto screen. I wasn’t a huge fan of the shift from Katie Holmes to Maggie Gyllenhaal, however. I’m not a fan of either of them to begin with, and it just makes Rachel a really stale character. But Michael Caine, Morgan Freeman, and Gary Oldman all make up for that. Everyone adds a good flare to the story. The score is really good, and Hans Zimmer once again throws flames with his music. It’s exciting, thrilling, and intense all throughout. Overall, I’d definitely recommend this movie to all DC/superhero fans. This film is officially Berry Approved, so go see it now!