The Batman (2022)

Matt Reeves both directed and co-wrote this reboot of the classic Batman franchise. This time around Robert Pattinson has stepped into the hallowed cape with a superb performance, integrating both Bruce Wayne and his alter-ego into one solitude character relentlessly determined to exact his own form of vengeance against Gotham's hardened criminals. The film pulsates with gritty realism as we follow our beloved cape crusader ruthlessly patrolling the crime ridden streets of Gotham. A high-profile murder ropes Batman into the main plot as a letter addressed to 'The Batman' is found on the corpse of the city's mayor. From here on Lieutenant James Gordan and Batman team-up, following a breadcrumb trail of cryptic riddles plunging them deeper into Gotham's underworld, uncovering a deeply rooted infestation of corruption.

The film adopts the common traits of film noir cinema, depicting Gotham as a cold, bleak city anchored in its peril by its criminal underworld. This underworld permeating all aspects of Gotham which The Riddler, portrayed by Paul Dano, intends to expose. Dano, throughout the film is spectacular in his performance, ensuring the audience are constantly unsettled through his eerily calm demeanour, which is prone to sudden shifts, exposing a viciously agitated, unhinged individual. Alongside the stellar performances of Robert Pattinson and Paul Dano, Collin Farrell's 'Penguin' stood out as he expertly embodied his character conveying a sanctimonious, avaricious low life solely concerned with his own personal gain.

Despite the films run time of 2 hrs and 56 mins, it was able to maintain my engagement throughout. This being due to the strong action scenes driven by the unravelling of The Riddler's sinister plot. Robert Pattinson further contributing to the films strong engagement by being present in almost every scene, ensuring not to deprive the audience of any Batman action. 

The theme of the movie, curated by Matt Reeves, was excellent in shaping Gotham to be a desperate city built on violence with Batman as the decaying city's only salvation. The soundtrack of 'Something In The Way' by Nirvana perfectly echoing this theme. Overall, 'The Batman' was a fantastically crafted film that seems to improve with every watch. As the latest instalment in the Batman franchise, coming off the back of Christopher Nolan's 'Dark Knight' trilogy, it was able to withstand any preconceived notions that Christian Bale's 'Batman' is untouchable, demonstrating how the character can be explored in different lights. This film integrating the personas of Bruce Wayne and Batman, as well as emphasising his detective ability alongside his unmatched fighting skill.



Movie rating: 8.5/10

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