Overview

The Batman follows Bruce Wayne (Robert Pattinson) as he uncovers the mystery behind the most recent murder of the Mayor of Gotham after the killer leaves a note specifically for him. The dark, broody, and grounded take on Batman will have the viewer on the edge of their seat through the entire film as they try to decipher the clues along with him. 

The Story

The movie begins in a dark library as we see the mayor bleeding over his desk and the killer leaving the room. It then cuts to a shot of Gotham city from above and the viewer can see how dirty, dark, and crime filled the city has become. In the sky above the bat signal can be seen. This event is just the beginning of the plan put in place by the Riddler (Paul Dano) to show the truth behind Gotham’s biggest politicians. 

As the story unfolds Bruce Wayne learns more about his parents, himself, and how almost everyone has a darkness in their past. Batman dives into Gothams dark underworld where he meets the likes of The Penguin (Colin Farrell) and crime boss Carmine Falcone (John Turturro). He is accompanied by Selina Kyle (Zoe Kravitz), who is trying to find her missing friend Anika (Hana Hrzic), as well as his butler Alfred (Andy Serkis) and the great Detective James Gordon (Jeffrey Wright).  

Pros and Cons

This is one of the most grounded and darkest superhero movies to the date with it almost feeling like a Law and Order episode. All of the main actors did an outstanding job, with Dano and Pattinson standing out the most. Even with Dano’s limited screen time he was able to create an iconic and twisted villain who will be remembered for a long time.

Robert Pattinson’s version of Batman had a dominant presence on the screen. The viewer was able to feel the fear of the criminals as he approached them in darkness. 

The cinematography was amazing as well. There were a few shots which can be easily remembered including when Batman can be seen walking ominously on the freeway to the crashed car as a fire rages behind him. 

There are only a few negatives through the film, such as the sudden relationship developed between Batman and Selina in addition to a few scenes with Wayne where it felt slightly awkward.

Verdict

Overall, Matt Reaves created a thrilling movie that follows Batman trying to catch the serial killer, The Riddler.​​ The great scenes and amazing acting by both Pattinson and Dano created a comic book classic. Anyone who is looking for their next superhero fill should watch The Batman.