The Dark Knight

Originally published Nov 14, 2023

This review contains spoilers. Read at your own discretion.

Sequels are a funny subject. They seek to continue an established narrative, though whether it solely be for profit or creative drive is anyone’s guess. Much like Harvey Dent was seen as the best of Gotham, The Dark Knight is likewise heralded as the gold standard for sequels. Aside from some occasionally slow scenes, I have no trouble understanding the praise behind this picture. Christian Bale and his hilariously awkward Batman voice are back, facing off against a new scene-stealing foe: the Joker. It’s no surprise Heath Ledger’s performance garnered him so many posthumous awards; every time the man was on screen, he had my full attention with his meticulous conquest for anarchy. The rest of the movie was pretty on par with its predecessor, from the acting and choreography to the music and cinematography. With that said, there is something that sets it above the prior installment for me…

The true highlight of this movie for me was its theme on morality. Aside from being an organic continuation of Batman Begins’ themes, it gives an introspective portrayal of how the labels of “good” and “bad” don’t limit a person’s actions. Harvey Dent, the “white knight” of Gotham, was capable of evil when pushed far enough. Likewise, the climactic “social experiment” ferry scene shows that even a convicted felon, looked down on as the scum of humanity, is capable of mercy. Even after their safety and faith are put to the test, the citizens of Gotham can’t bring themselves to blow up the opposing ferry of criminals. Especially now, the world can be a very scary place. The world doesn’t deserve this movie, but it does need it. Because this wasn’t a superhero movie. It was an exceptional sequel. A provocative thriller. The Dark Knight.

Rating: 9.7/10