The Dark Knight - Review

“Why so serious?” – A review of The Dark Knight. 

The Dark Knight trilogy is probably my favourite set of superhero movies ever made, and the second instalment, The Dark Knight, is easily my favourite of the three. Directed by Christpher Nolan and released in 2008, this is a film which truly helped to redefine a genre.

As we return to Gotham City, we are met with a terrifying new villain – the Joker. He’s unpredictable, he’s dangerous, and he has thrown the entire criminal underworld of the city into absolute chaos. He is played by Heath Ledger, and not only do I believe that this is the best portrayal of the Joker ever, but he might just be the best movie villain of all time. Ledger’s performance as the Joker is completely magnetic, he gives off a truly anarchic and unpredictable energy, and he comes across as a genuinely chilling threat not just to Batman, but to Gotham as a whole.

This is a film which once again sees Bruce battle with his own morality. As he teams up with James Gordan and Hervey Dent to attempt to dismantle organised crime, the Joker is responsible for a series of horrific, violent and psychological attacks. How far is Batman willing to push his ethical beliefs for justice? Christian Bale is again a superb Bruce Wayne/Batman, as he successfully captures the inner turmoil of the choices the character must make in order to save Gotham City.

There is no lack of action here either; from bank heists to chase scenes through the moody city, this is a film which expertly builds suspense as the events escalate throughout. Gotham City is again dark and moody, and the score helps to heighten the sense of drama and anxiety at pivotal moments throughout.

I always love it when a film makes you think and reflect, and this film does this perfectly. There are no easy answers to be found, and lots of difficult questions to answer. The themes vary from chaos vs order, what it really means to be a hero, and what lengths it is okay to go to when fighting for justice. As an audience, what are we willing to watch a protagonist do and still cheer for them? When does the hero become the villain, and when is a villains actions justified, if ever? Questions like this are suggested throughout, making this a genuinely intelligent and thought provoking take on the story.

This is a truly essential film. An absolute masterpiece of the genre, The Dark Knight blends exciting action, heartfelt drama and psychological depth to create something truly captivating. Heath Ledger’s Joker is something that must be seen to be appreciated fully, and the rest of the incredible cast give career defining performances throughout. This film invites you to examine your own morality, and it serves as an important reminder that, “It's not who I am underneath, but what I do that defines me."

Written by Tam Page

Posted by Mr. Tomney

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