Batman Begins (2005) Review

Title: Batman Begins
Year: 2005
Director: Christopher Nolan
Country: US
Language: English

 Tim Burton's Batman (1989) brought the titular comic book hero to the cinemas in a gothic macabre light that had previously been only imagined on the pages of DC Comics. That run of films, which had a variety of actors play Batman, ended when the goofy slapstick of Batman & Robin (2007) ruined the franchise. It would be nearly a decade until audiences warmed up to the idea of caped crusader again; this time Christopher Nolan would direct a trilogy. 

After training with his mentor (Liam Neeson), Batman (Christian Bale) plans to rid Gotham City of its underworld corruption. 

Batman Begins was certainly the beginning of transitioning comic book movies from silly genre flick into serious cinematic works of art. It is a compelling, moving narrative that is full of depth and nuance, while also being entertaining enough for mainstream audiences to enjoy. The tremendous amount of work that goes into Batman's character arc finally makes way for some dramatic thematic storytelling. 

While previous Batman movies relied on set design and practical effects to win over audiences, Batman Begins presents more mature scenarios & gives a realism to both his emotions and outside world that was previously unseen. Christian Bale gives a well rounded interpretation of the character that feels relatable on an emotional level. He highlights the deep underpinning psychology behind Batman's motivations. 

Batman Begins is a decent film, that is unfortunately completely eclipsed by The Dark Knight (2008). I doubt, if people were given a choice, they'd choose Begins over its sequel. This movie walked so superhero films made after it could run.