Dark Knight
"The Dark Knight" is as amazing as every review says it is. Whether it's the outstanding acting or the jaw-dropping special effects, this movie is nearly flawless.
Really, when you break it down, the storyline is pretty simple. This is a story of good vs. evil, heroes vs. villains. Bruce Wayne (Christian Bale), aka Batman, wants
Beyond that, what else do you need to know? While it's not essential to have seen "Batman Begins" -- the first Christian Bale Batman movie -- it does help with the set-up of the love interest (Maggie Gyllenhaal) and the close relationship Batman has with Jim Gordon (Gary Oldman). I will say, however, that "Dark Knight" is essential viewing if you intend to understand the third installment. This one clearly sets up the next movie. I've also been asked, "Would people be talking about Heath Ledger as the Joker if Ledger were still alive?" Definitely, no question. While Bale brings his usual intensity and Oldman provides the caring heart, Ledger delivers such a performance that you forget you're watching an actor who died only months ago. The grotesque makeup helps, but you also hang on every line, waiting for an epic punch line. Ledger's Joker is extraordinary.
Not to be outdone by great acting, the special effects gurus pull out all the stops with new Bat toys, a new Bat vehicle, and a semi-truck stunt to top all truck stunts. The story itself is also intelligent and very well written. Where most summer movies invest only in explosions, this one, while just a little too long and a bit talky at times, is the complete package. If you haven't seen it at least once already, don't wait for the next sunrise to see "The Dark Knight". Get there today. I give it an A.
"The Dark Knight" is (surprisingly) rated PG-13 with a running time of 150 minutes.
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