I am always hesitant when a new superhero movie is announced, especially when it’s Batman. In recent years, I have been underwhelmed with adaptations of the character. But when “The Batman” was announced, I kept an open mind. Maybe this time, I will actually enjoy this interpretation.
I was pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed the movie. “The Batman” takes place two years into Bruce Wayne’s career as the Caped Crusader. This film is separate from the main DC Extended Universe; it is a part of its own shared universe. All of our classic Batman characters are present, Alfred Pennyworth, James Gordon, Catwoman, Riddler and the Penguin. While watching, it did feel like I was reading a comic.
This version of Batman is not the one we are used to seeing. He is not the fine-tuned detective of past movies. This is a man trying to figure out what type of hero he wants to be and still making mistakes along the way. We see the rise of heroes and villains. Alliances and enemies are forged that will be helpful later down the line.
It is a classic film noir; the mystery that unravels keeps you engrossed. The movie is dark and atmospheric. The endless plot twists keep everything moving forward. I was at the edge of my seat, wondering what would happen next? The three hours seemed to fly by because of how tightly written and edited the film is. But, I will say, some scenes went on a little longer than they needed to.
Robert Pattinson has transformed into Batman, his performance is filled with so much intensity. Pattinson conveys the internal conflict Bruce Wayne has and the weight he has on his shoulders in trying to be a hero. He really does bring Bruce Wayne/Batman to life.
Gotham City has come alive through the screen. We explore the criminal underworld and the people who inhabit it. Something is always creeping below the surface, waiting to be revealed. Everyone in the city knows someone or something is lurking in the shadows.
“The Batman” is a deep dive into the minds of these fictional characters and their motivations. The Riddler and Batman are playing a game of cat and mouse throughout. One of them is always ahead of the other; the clock is ticking on who will succeed by the final act.
This version of the Riddler is absolutely terrifying. He seems like something straight out of a horror movie. I get chills just thinking about it. There is an uneasiness to him; you never know his next action. You wonder, as he gets deeper into his plan, “will good triumph over evil? Will Batman defeat him? Or will the Riddler be back in the future for revenge?”
I am excited that Catwoman also played a massive part in this movie, and we see her grow into herself. She gives another perspective to Batman and makes her own path in the end.
Very few movies have made me speechless, and “The Batman” did just that. As the credits rolled, I just stared at the screen, stunned, trying to soak up what I just watched.
“The Batman” is an exciting thrill ride that I cannot wait to watch again.