Matt
Reeves (War for the Planet of the Apes)
co-wrote and directed this latest version of comics hero, The Batman, and the results are truly impressive and sure to please
fans.
In seamy Gotham, a serial killer, The Riddler (Paul Dano), is targeting city officials with ghastly murders and leaving cryptic clues for Batman aka Bruce Wayne (Robert Pattinson). Meanwhile, a vengeful thief, Selina Kyle (Zoë Kravitz), appears, who may or may not be trusted. With the city at the mercy of criminals and a corrupt police department, Batman and Lt. Gordon (Jeffrey Wright) uncover an insidious conspiracy with painful links to Wayne’s past, while The Riddler has a diabolical plan with devastating, terrifying consequences.
The film is grounded in a real world vividly created with dark, rain-soaked streets, and though rated PG-13, its intensity brings to mind Taxi Driver and Se7en. Beginning with a macabre, detective story, this Batman (think of Jack Ryan portrayals), is a young, fearless avenger who takes on vicious thugs with sheer ferocity, and just when you think things are wrapped up, the stakes are raised to an extreme level that enhances an already ambitious film.
(Like other actors interpreting Hamlet,) Pattinson excels in a physically and psychologically demanding role, and he makes this Batman one for the ages. His scenes with Kravitz are electric, and they are both complimented by an excellent cast including Andy Serkis (as Alfred), John Turturro, and Colin Farrell (remarkable as Penguin).
Gloriously
shot and scored, Reeves maintains his
vision and a tense pacing throughout its three hour runtime. Is it better than The Dark Knight? No, but this remarkable film marks the beginning of
a new era for Batman films; revel in
it. (There is a telling cameo near the film’s end.)
**** of **** stars (for Batman fans)
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