Rating: 4.9 of 5

Gotham’s criminal underworld is cowering since the appearance of Batman, but a new player seeks to bring down the Batman and plunge the city into chaos. Batman must use everything he’s got to bring down the enigmatic Joker in a war that tests not only himself, but also those closest to him. Gotham’s Dark Knight must also deal with the emergence of a new villain, Two Face.

The Dark Knight DVD Review

Nolan sets a darker tone this time around, which is sure to please many diehard fans. Having introduced the character in Batman Begins, he was free to let him loose. There is much more action in this installment, with quite a few standout scenes, in particular Batman having to deal with a hostage situation.

The Dark Knight asks the serious question, “what does it take to be a hero?” The all too human Bruce Wayne, gifted with none of the powers of his fellow comic book counterparts must not only realize his limits, but also try to go beyond them.

By not giving the Joker a back-story, Nolan seems to be using him as a metaphor for the darker aspects of the human consciousness and society as a whole. It is this darkness that Batman must prevent from swallowing Gotham as the Joker unleashes his reign of terror.

The film is imbued with its own gritty realism, especially in its depiction of the Joker as a demented, yet cunning antagonist. Nolan foregoes computer aided effects, in favor of real stunt work. The result is a fast paced ride that barely gives you time to catch your breath.

The Dark Knight delves deeper into the Batman mythos as depicted in the comics. This time around he uses more advanced gadgets and puts his famed detective skills to work. The character of Bruce Wayne is not just a vigilante, but is shown to be actively involved in the development of his suit and weapons as well as being a great tactician.

Nolan’s vision of the Joker deviates from the comic to some degree but this helps to create a darker character in keeping with the tone of the movie. As Nolan explores darker, more complex themes, we see what it takes, just as Bruce Wayne does, to be a hero, and the true meaning of sacrifice.

This movie is not just for fans of the long running comic, but anyone who appreciates action, combined with a well thought out story. This is a great way to introduce Batman to anyone not too familiar with the character. The violence could not be described as over the top, but some scenes may be a bit intense for younger viewers. Be warned also that young children may find the character Two Face frightening.

Thank you to Jessica M. for this “The Dark Knight DVD” article/review.

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