The reboot of The Batman, written by Matt Reeves and Peter Craig feels brand new. It starts rather strongly, violently, and scarily, which sets the tone of the film straight away. There is no humour throughout, and it feels more like a psychological thriller with a bit of horror, rather than an action superhero crime film.
The character development is superbly done in both plot formation and acting talent, and with such realism. Twilight star Robert Pattinson presents himself as both menacing and mysterious, a man on a mission to right the horror city that Gotham has become. He sees as role as ‘viligante’ as simply one of necessity. As his other persona Bruce Wayne, his looks and style easily embody the essence of a recluse man of privilege.
Paul Dano as the unhinged Riddler also sees himself as a man of necessity, with a similar mission to Batman: to rid Gotham of the corrupt powerhouse that has destroyed it. They are just going about it in different ways… Equally complex and magnificently executed by Zoë Kravitz is Catwoman, who becomes entangled with the pair for a variety of reasons that are slowly revealed throughout.
Apart from strong performances by several members of the remaining cast, many of the other aspects of the production are notable. Reeves once again engaged Michael Giacchino for the film’s score, which included a theme for Batman, Catwoman, and the Riddler. The timing, sound and volume of the music enhances the sensory experience.
Australia’s Greig Fraser, winner and nominee of multiple awards for Best Cinematography for Dune, also delivers. The use of varying camera angles in many of the action scenes, in particular the use of bird’s eye views during critical moments, allows us as the audience to fully grasp each moment in its entirety. The visual effects were not overdone, and the clever use of lighting during some of the darker scenes provides viewers with complete sight.
The Batman is just the start of the reboot, and it will be difficult to again produce a film of such calibre. Directed by the talented Reeves, and co-produced with Peter Craig, every aspect of this film is intricately designed. Much of the excitement and suspense of the film is between the fighting scenes rather than within, keeping you on the edge of your seat the whole time, and worth the three-hour watch.
Despite being a long film, the suspense and enjoyment lasts throughout 5 stars
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