?batman begins? a blockbuster better by far - Batman Begins Reviews

Whoever heard of a summer blockbuster that didn't show the iconic hero in full action until an hour into the film? This is not your usual stock-in-trade popcorn flick you've come to expect from the kiddie-pleasing Batman enterprise. This new installment is a film that has at its core a desire to fully explore the philosophical ramifications of injustice and fear and sure-handedly takes us along for the emotional ride. This is film that is not afraid to focus on the narrative meat of social and psychological issues while still providing the action-adventure thrills summer audiences have come to expect in hero vs. villain comic book based showdowns. I whole-heartedly applaud director Christopher Nolan for his commitment to character development and plot progression, even at the expense of the traditional bang-bang-shoot-em-up spectacular opening sequence. This movie is not a series of action shots, but rather one long crescendo, a single through-line that continues from opening scene right on to the credits. Christian Bale?s superbly acted Batman is so utterly defined and motivated and shown from so truthful a place that we believe totally in his need to act exactly as he does. There is such a realism and attention to detail in his portrayal of Bruce Wayne, a character who actually invents his alter-ego Batman by trial and error, hit and miss, with lots of misses along the way. There is no gloss here; this is almost super-realism. Add to the mix the outstanding supporting cast of Morgan Freeman, Gary Oldman, Liam Neeson, and the inimitable Michael Caine, all of whom are brilliant dramatically, and even add wonderfully timed and heart-felt comedic moments throughout. The depth of talent here is almost endless. Yes, this ?Batman? most certainly belongs alongside Mr. Nolan?s other outstanding works: ?Memento?, ?Insomnia?, and ?Following?. In truth, it should be considered very well placed within their ranks, sharing their search for a fuller humanity with a more open heart. Really, this is an indie film. It?s just disguised as a caped-crusading Hollywood blockbuster.