Batman is the only DC hero I admire. Perhaps it's because he's the only one who appears on the big screen so frequently. As a result, when I hear that Matt Reeves is working on a new Batman film, I make it a point to see it in the theater. That's exactly what I did. Twice.
I believe the titular character doesn't need an introduction because he is so well-known among the general public. In his film, Reeves did the same thing. Rather than re-enacting the murders of Thomas and Martha Wayne, we get to jump ahead to Bruce Wayne's second year as Batman. It's clever because we don't miss out much and it's still early in Bruce's journey as Batman. He's full of wrath and determination to do better.
The Batman follows Batman during his second year as the enigmatic masked vigilante when a serial killer known as "the Riddler" emerged and brutally murdered all of Gotham City's important figures. On his way to catching and preventing Ridder from killing, Batman had to solve Ridder's riddle. He also encountered a slew of Gotham's most notorious villains, gradually revealing the truth about his parents' deaths.
Without using flashbacks, Reeves masterfully fills in the missing knowledge about Batman and Gotham City in the 10-minute entrance scene. Each and every sentence was both necessary and effective. Despite the film's length (3 solid hours), not a single second is wasted on screen. The latest Batman film focuses mostly on the psychological aspects of the characters, making them more real, flawed, and sympathetic. Every character, from the supporting to the main, has the chance to shine. Everyone appears to have a good reason for their acts, and it's convincing.
I may also say that, in terms of color, camera angle, music, and setup, The Batman is more artistic than its predecessor. The camera was trained on several characters, including Batman, The Riddler, and Gotham's criminals, to observe how they see and feel. The film's music is also a highlight, particularly Batman, Catwoman, and The Riddler's theme songs, which are all noteworthy. I can see why the film may not appeal to a broad audience, as it maintains DC's typical gloomy tone while also emphasizing the gravity of the subject.
Thankfully, Edward Cullen does not appear in Robert Pattinson's Batman. I really like how he captured Bruce Wayne's hatred in his face, the smoldering wrath he has in Good Time (recommended) is now greatly benefited in this dark and gloomy project. Catwoman, played by Zoe Kravit, is equally memorable. She shines like a diamond with her distinct storyline that makes us all sympathize with her. The villains in the Batman movies left their imprints as well. The Riddler is a visionary and artist with a distinct style. The Penguin is insane, clever, and evil, as seen by his insane laugh in the car chasing sequences. And Carmine Falcone is a true boss, commanding the screen with his presence.
In general, with all the suspense, crime, mystery vibes, and still full of ideas and vision, I can consider
to be The Dark Knight's half-brother.
SCORE: 5/5
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