It’s got a ton of editing problems, and some weird plot holes (largely due to editing problems), but: the script is generally excellent. At the very least, it’s the most thoughtful superhero film ever made. It asks serious questions about the difference between good and evil within us. It’s mythology. Nolan’s mythology isn’t exactly realistic, but it feels so probable — so possible — that we don’t question it. And our reality becomes one in which Batman is a symbol we all need. The story is timeless (as clumsily as it may be edited).
All that creates a perfect foundation for Ledger to do his work. His work is tremendous. His death haunts this film and this franchise like a spectre.
Bale does really good work too, but he is obviously overpowered.
The problem here, apart from the editing, is that visual composition is somewhat bland. The IMAX camerawork is amazing, as far as the quality of the resolution, but despite the myth Nolan captures, Pfister’s visually gorgeous work composes it so plainly as to be unexciting. I think blame for that lands squarely on Nolan’s shoulders.
Watched in preparation for Oppenheimer in 70mm IMAX.