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Sometimes a movie transcends what it’s supposed to be and becomes something more, something greater. “The Dark Knight” is such a movie. It’s a substantial work that surpasses its comic book origins and action movie brethren and asserts itself as a legitimate pop masterpiece. When you add the solemn allure of Heath Ledger’s brilliant performance and tragic passing last January, “The Dark Knight” becomes an entity onto its own. It’s not just a movie but also a cultural event that has captured our interest and is eager to be embraced. Even better, it’s so damn good that it deserves to be embraced.
It starts – as great movies often do, regardless of genre – with the story. The script by director Christopher Nolan and his brother, Jonathan, is a concise exhibition of multi-layer storytelling woven seamlessly into a 152-minute saga that never drags or bores. Crime is once again running amok in Gotham City, but Batman (Christian Bale) and police lieutenant James Gordon (Gary Oldman) now have the help of popular district attorney Harvey Dent (Aaron Eckhart), who has promised to crack down on crime.
At first their priority is a mafia-run money-laundering scheme, but soon they realize a deformed madman named the Joker (Ledger) poses a more serious threat. Dressed in a stained purple suit with oily green hair and faded white clown makeup, and with scars running from each side of his mouth into his cheek, the Joker threatens the life of Gotham’s elite and insists that Batman reveal his true identity.
Of course, we already know Batman’s alter ego is billionaire Bruce Wayne. Wayne Enterprises CEO Lucius Fox (Morgan Freeman) also knows, as does Wayne’s loyal butler Alfred Pennyworth (Michael Caine). Assistant District Attorney Rachel Dawes (Maggie Gyllenhaal; the character was previously played by Katie Holmes) is also in on the secret, and is in love with Wayne even though she’s dating Harvey Dent.
There’s certainly a lot going on here, and those familiar with the Batman comics will appreciate the complex depths Nolan so convincingly accomplishes. For example, when the Joker begins his killing spree it is a legitimate dilemma for Batman to ponder the need for his presence, and how this plays out is both smart and captivating.
The action scenes are expertly paced and executed, particularly a gravity-defying excursion in Hong Kong and an incredible sequence on the Batpod. Just like its predecessor, “Batman Begins” (2005), Batman’s gadgets and machinery are born of logic and plausibility, and lend themselves perfectly to the action.
Much has been made of Ledger’s performance, and rightfully so. His Joker is a frightening sociopath without feeling or remorse, and Ledger emits such a haunting creepiness that he becomes the stuff nightmares are made of. That said, the pre-release buzz about a posthumous supporting actor Oscar nomination is very premature, and let’s not forget that it’s rare for this type of cackling, deliciously vicious role to win an Oscar.
Of course, it would add to the movie’s lore if Ledger did win. But Nolan doesn’t need awards to validate this astonishing achievement, as the craftsmanship and inevitable following of “The Dark Knight” more than speaks for itself. This is a great movie.
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sixfootrabbit
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... I compared this movie to Nolan's latest movie, Inception, and I still think DK is his best to date. |
mithrandir16
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... TDK is a gift that keeps on giving. I just rewatched it a few days ago, and it never gets old. Great performances by one of the best ensemble casts on film. Christopher Nolan has cemented his reputation as a big budget genius with Inception, and I can't wait to see what he does with Batman 3. |
ptmuller
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... This was one of the best action movies I have ever watched. I was on the edge of my seat most of the time. Heath Ledger’s performance was brilliant - too bad about his untimely passsing. |
NealOsia
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... This is my favorite superhero film of all time. By far the best Batman film and Heath Ledger gets the performance of the decade. Christopher Nolan proves how great of a director he truly is. I have seen this film probably 10 times since it's release. The Joker/Heath Ledger will go down as one of the best performances of all time. Also, this, Terminator 2 and the Godfather: Part II are the best sequels of all time. Bravo Christopher Nolan! |
jmaura10
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... I have to say that the Batman series has had two great sequels. Batman Returns and now The Dark Knight. I love the original Batman films but there is something new and fresh about these films that make them interesting to watch. Christopher Nolan is a very talented director and writer I cant wait to see where the third film takes us. |
Moore
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... The Dark Knight was not simply an excellent addition to the comic book/superhero genre of movies, but a great crime story as well. Storywise, I could have seen this type of film being directed by Michael Mann. Heath Ledger's turn as the Joker will surely go down as another outstanding performance not only of his carreer, but as an incredible interpretation of such an iconic villain. Eagerly awaiting #3! |
AnHonestFraud
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... "All right. So, listen. Why don't you give me a call when you want to start taking things a little more seriously? Here's my card." [Holds up a Joker card and places it on the table] This is movie that's so rich in the depth of writing, great actors, action and moments that make you want to get out of your seat cheering for Batman or sitting right back down if The Joker is on the screen. |
sjtw170
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... One of the all time best sequels ever made. Delivers in all areas and does not disappoint from the time it starts to the time the credits roll. Nolan, with a great cast and a legendary performance from Heath Ledger, delivers a top-notch movie that all fans of batman will enjoy for years to come. |
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