THE DARK KNIGHT: The Starstore Review
As the lights dimmed for our screening of The Dark Knight, there was a hushed reverence throughout the entire cinema, as though everyone, adult and fidgety child alike, knew they were about to witness something special. As one of the most anticipated films of the year this was hardly surprising, and as expected, it didn’t disappoint one bit. From the rip-roaring opening siege this film keeps you on the edge of your seat, be it through awe-inspiring set pieces or the blistering performances of the leads, The Dark Knight takes hold and never lets go.
It goes without saying that Heath Ledger’s Joker is responsible for a large portion of audience attendance. Anticipation of this performance had reached fever pitch and all for good reason. From beginning to end his performance is a revelation, utterly compelling and scarily attractive. His persona mottles charisma with insanity and creates a character so inescapable you’re constantly waiting for his next move. Knowledge of Heath’s tragic death does add a wistful, eerie element to his performance, but even without this the role would still have been breathtaking.
Heath may steal the show, but the other performances are still top notch. Christian Bale settles into his dual roles of Bruce Wayne/Batman, and although the whole ‘superhero cold feet’ storyline has been done over and over, Bale brings his own refreshing element to the proceedings. The dark horse is Aaron Eckhart’s Harvey Dent; he delivers a character we genuinely want to believe in; charismatic, honest and proud. When his inevitable fall from grace arrives, the tragedy is palpable. He then becomes remarkable in a completely different way; terrifying and hopeless.
Director Christopher Nolan again grounds the movie in a dark reality that works so well for the subject matter. Respect must be given to a man who resists the obvious urge to overburden a sequel with surplus visuals, especially a superhero sequel. This is a film of characters and interaction, not flashy CGI. The stunts are amazing for sure, the highway showdown being particularly impressive.
Despite a few minor gripes, the editing seems a little rushed and disjointed in places, Batman’s voice still a little over the top etc, this is a film that truly lives up to the hype, full of visuals and performances that stay with you long after you’ve left the cinema. The Dark Knight deserves to be seen by as many people as possible.
Review: Rich