Opening statement: The Batman, 2022. Featuring Robert Pattinson as The Batman, director Matt Reeves. Also featuring Zoë Kravitz, Paul Dano, Jeffrey Wright, John Turturro, Peter Sarsgaard, Andy Serkis, and Colin Farrell.

Brief Synopsis: The Batman is a reboot of the popular Batman series; a superhero movie based off of the DC comics Batman character. This movie begins with Batman early in his career, as he investigates murders that appear interrelated. The movie is much more of a traditional detective style movie as he partners with lieutenant Gordon (not Commissioner yet) and Catwoman. The murders all apper interrelated and climax by turning upon Batman himself.

Overall impression: My overall impression was that this movie was probably one of the best Batman movies. It felt similar to the first Batman movie with Michael Keaton, but without the kitchy overtones and theatrics from Jack Nicholson’s Joker. It was similar to the more recent Dark Knight trilogy with Christian Bale, but with added emphasis on Batman as a detective, and less as an action superhero. Most of all, this movie allowed Batman to fully embody the character, and featured very little of Bruce Wayne. And even in the scenes where Bruce Wayne appears, it is clear that it is still really him, as Batman, just without the suite. In this universe, Bruce Wayne is a mere backdrop, and really it is Batman who is the real character. Overall impression, this was one of the best movies, with a plot that was a slow burner and drove up the intensity. The audience wasn’t distracted by unnecessary theatrics, mindless action scenes, and ridiculous love plots. This Batman movie brooded and puzzled his way into a great detective movie. 

There was a lot of chatter online about the casting of Robert Pattinson, especially after the movies featuring Ben Affleck. Pattinson is a huge departure, and has a wiry frame and pale features – very different from Affleck, and even the previous Batmans. And it is interesting to think that at this point in his career, he has been featured in some of the biggest movie franchises – Harry Potter, Twilight, and now Batman. But Pattinson delivered at Batman. The audience could feel the stress as he tries to decipher clues and stay ahead of the Riddler, also the pain at learning the truth of his family’s legacy, and the desire to avoid using guns in battles. “Not this way”.

The plot is excellent and keeps the audience on its toes. It is also a great payoff for fans of the comics as it goes in depth in comic lore by detailing the connection between Gotham City and the families – Waynes, Arkhams, Falcones, and Maronis as the dead bodies pile up. In many ways, the plot which identifies corruption within the city and the justice system is a way to give Batman’s origin tale, but in a way that is clever and feels fresh. Through this, we also see the early origins of Catwoman and what will become Commissioner Gordon. Finally, the plot is relevant to our current times by featuring a take over of the city that is similar to the January 6th attacks on the US Capitol.

Check out the movie – the audience will not be disappointed in this most recent take on The Batman.

Quotation: “Fear is a tool. When that light hits the sky, it’s not just a call. It’s a warning. For them.” The Batman