Rating of
3/4
It's good, but let's not get carried away
patjohnson76 - wrote on 07/21/08
Warning - minor spoilers
Nolan's second Batman film is a worthy entry into the franchise, though I have to admit, I think it may be overhyped just a bit. The script is mostly okay and the actors are solid, but at times the film tries to do too much.
Regarding the script, my main complaint is that the twist involving Harvey Dent really needed to be saved for another movie. I would have been okay with the transformation, but taking him to the dark side now just seemed too soon. One conversation with the Joker isn't enough motivation for Dent to abandon all his principles. Besides, Two Face's true character was always struggling between good and evil - there's little good here.
There's strong acting all around, though given all the hype regarding Heath Ledger's Joker, I was prepared to see something truly groundbreaking. I can't say that it was, and talk of Ledger receiving an Oscar nomination is being blown way out of proportion. He's good, but it isn't until he's conversing with the main characters, such as Batman or Dent, that his talents show. Unfortunately, these moments are too few and far between.
Caine's Alfred and Freeman's Fox are relegated to the sidelines here, mainly popping up every 20 minutes or so to say something wise. They had a stronger presence in the first film and I missed their interactions with Bale this time.
But other than all that, it was an enjoyable experience. It's a bit long, and saving Dent's story for another film would have alleviated that. I'd say it's a worthy sequel - builds on the original, advances the characters, and sets up a possible next film.
Recent Comments
BryanFury - wrote on 07/21/08 at 06:14 PM CT
The Dark Knight Review comment
I think Harvey Dent/Two Face have always had this inexplicable rage in him. That's why when the Joker turned him to the "dark side" it's as easy as flipping a coin. Well to me Eckhart's performance was not as iconic as Ledger was but it's definitely worthy nonetheless. By the way Maggie G delivered yet another forgettable performance here don't you think
