Synopsis:
When a killer targets Gotham’s elite with a series of sadistic machinations, a trail of cryptic clues sends the World’s Greatest Detective on an investigation into the underworld, where he encounters such characters as Selina Kyle (Zoë Kravitz), Oz, aka The Penguin (Colin Farrell), Carmine Falcone (John Turturro), and Edward Nashton/aka The Riddler (Paul Dano). As the evidence begins to lead closer to home and the scale of the perpetrator’s plans becomes clear, Batman must forge new relationships, unmask the culprit, and bring justice to the abuse of power and corruption that has long plagued Gotham City.
Everyone handles grief and trauma differently. Some quietly carry around their issues as if nothing happened, some go to therapy, and some put on a cape and become one with the darkness. Not all are healthy options, but we have to cope in some way. Whether the loss is of a loved one, things, or a job, initially, the anguish can feel the same. Nevertheless, we know what really matters, and your story then becomes one of not what happened but how you responded.
“I’m vengeance.”
Welcome to the new Gotham. Directed by Matt Reeves, The Batman is a gripping crime thriller featuring the most authentic Gotham City you have ever witnessed on screen. This is by no means the comic book film that you’re used to. Reeves’ vision is dark, gritty, moody, grounded, extremely close to the source material, and is more story-driven than most. This is a film that treats its audience like adults and delivers us the Batman that we’ve always wanted. With a story that you can liken to that of Saw, Seven, and Chinatown in both tone and mood, this detective noir is full of crime, corruption, and unrelenting vengeance. Like films of the past featuring the Caped Crusader, there is plenty of action and a villain or two that must be stopped. Where this one differs is that the action is more intense and real, there is actual detective work that takes place, and the villains are more intertwined in the fabric of the city making them feel ripped from reality. Moreover, Paul Dano’s Riddler rivals that of Tom Hardy’s Bane and even Heath Ledger’s Joker. The film succeeds in creating a city that embodies the worst in what we see daily. It makes it not only a scary place to live, but somewhere someone like Batman is necessary.
Like the recent Spider-Man films, The Batman doesn’t see the need to fully relive the deaths that started Bruce on his path as we all know what took place when he was a child. It does reference the incident on multiple occasions, however, it’s more than what drives our hero. Filled with a slew of well-fleshed out characters, each gets an abundance of screentime giving us a full look into who they are and why they do what they do. The film takes its time while also keeping entertainment and attention at the forefront. This highly driven young Bruce Wayne and Batman feel more complex than ever as he is in the middle of finding a balance between the two. Delving into family and generational trauma, mental illness, and more, this film should now be the benchmark for the Dark Knight going forward. Filled with anguish and a quietly violent internal rage that helps mold his demeanor and personality, I’ve dubbed Robert Pattinson’s portrayal of the world’s greatest detective as Emo Batman. He’s fearless, practical, crafty, and probably a bit reckless. Undoubtedly, I had my reservations when he initially scored the role, but he has now become my favorite to dawn the cape and cowl. The production design is amazing, the score is award-worthy, the story is intricate and high-stakes, and I can’t wait to experience it again. This is a truly captivating film that you will be thinking about and discussing for days. This is a must-see movie event and my favorite of the year. Not only does the film have something for everyone, action, romance, drama, and mystery, but it’s for everyone. Its rewatchability is high. I almost forgot, there’s a surprise at the end. Who do think it is?
Pacing & Pop
While the film may have a runtime that flirts with the three-hour mark, its pacing is well measured and flows so effortlessly that you completely lose yourself in the story. What popped for me was this emo version of Batman. Emo Batman is now my new favorite version. As we witness a younger version of the world’s greatest detective than we’re used to, we get a more emotionally complex vigilante as he navigates a relatively new way of life. Oh, and the Batmobile reveal is mwah, chef’s kiss.
Characters & Chemistry
Starring: Robert Pattinson, Zoë Kravitz, Paul Dano, Jeffrey Wright, John Turturro, Peter Sarsgaard, Jayme Lawson, Andy Serkis, Colin Farrell, Barry Keoghan
This cast couldn’t have been more perfect, the chemistry is outstanding. Whether it’s Pattinson with Zoë Kravitz, Jeffrey Wright, Paul Dano, or John Turturro, every scene is better than the last. As I said previously, Robert Pattinson is my new favorite as Bruce Wayne/Batman. The pain from his past really motivates this young version and makes him electric on screen. Kravitz as Catwoman is a perfect fit. She embodies the allure of Selina Kyle. Paul Dano as Riddler is a perfect villain. He’s intelligent and completely unhinged with a huge chip on his shoulder. All he wants is revenge. Also, Jeffrey Wright as Lt. James Gordon is the cop we all need in our cities. We get more of John Turturro as Carmine Falcone than previously expected. Not only is he a cunning gangster but he has an intriguing story. And let me not forget Colin Farrell as Penguin. From the voice to the walk, he’s unrecognizable and completes the transformation by becoming a ruthless slimy scumbag that is almost untouchable.
I can’t wait to see more of them in the future.
The Batman is set to open in theaters in North America on March 4, 2022, and internationally beginning March 2, 2022. Stay safe and enjoy.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Runtime: 2h 55m
Rated: PG-13
Director: Matt Reeves
Writers: Matt Reeves & Peter Craig
Producers: Dylan Clark, p.g.a, Matt Reeves p.g.a
Executive Producers: Michael E. Uslan, Walter Hamada, Chantel Nong Vo, Simon Emanuel
Director of Photography: Greig Fraser, ASC
Production Design: James Chinlund
Music: Michael Giacchino
Senior Critic. Observing the human race since 1988.
