REVIEW

Gotham City’s Grave New World

This Batman has wings, but he doesn't always soar.

By David Ansen | NEWSWEEK

Published Jul 12, 2008

From the magazine issue dated Jul 21, 2008

« Return to Article

Discuss

Posted By: the.mounts @ 11/22/2008 9:37:28 AM

Comment: Hey guys, I gotta agree with the writter on this. It's BATMAN people. Not CSI. I don't want some seroius movie about a guy who deals with emmotions and needs to find him self I want to enjoy a comic hero movie.
Batman began as a somewhat dark but always fun movies with a dash of CHEESYNESS that only TRUE batman fans could love. I agree with the JOKER on one thing...WHY so serious?

It's Batman not DR. Phill. I don't want sophisticated caracters and SUB SUB SUB plots. I wanna have fun with a comic caracter. What if they made a Friday the 13 where JASON had to explore who he was and the Victims made him question his own need to kill and mame..... Would horror fans be like WTF???

Well that's how we Batman fans are feeling.......Why so serious.. bring back the cheesy fun.
Posted By: zg68557 @ 10/31/2008 12:29:37 PM

Comment: What an idiotic review. The only complaint seems to be that the movie was too good. What?!?!? Christopher Nolan obviosly did not just use a 40 year old batman comic as the screenplay. Deal with it.
Posted By: remixfa @ 08/05/2008 10:43:43 PM

Comment: since everyone else has already said it, Im just going to have to agree. In its own light, the original batman was great.. but it was not a great "batman" flick. Batman is dark, serious, contemplative, and dangerous. Bruce wayne is one torn up person fighting his inner demons as well as his outer demons. Comic Books are not Sunday afternoon comics. If you want lite fair watch telitubies.. if you want a great true to the series batman movie, then the Dark Knight is for you.
If you want a light batman movie.. go back and rewatch Batman and Robin... its full of campy one liners and cameos. If that trype is really what you want, than it is you that needs help, not the movie. Please, understand the movie and plots before you go watch it. The new series is on the right path and i for one cant wait to see where they go next.

BTW, if you read the article in this month's Wired Magazine, it has a long article w/ the director. He used as few "special effects" as possible... most is live action unless it wasnt practical... and he made Bale and Ledger do alot of their own stuntwork. The halmarks of an above average movie

TDK 9.8 of 10. Sorry, but gylenhall just couldnt keep up with the rest of the stellar cast and was quite possibly the worst actor in the group.. glad she went kaboom!
Posted By: docfilms @ 07/30/2008 1:32:08 PM

Comment: There is a review of Dark Knight with a different perspective and extra special insight
from two old-school movie vets
check it out
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CUTrh2ueqtU
Posted By: izzyj53934 @ 07/22/2008 1:11:32 PM

Comment: While I agree with Tony that celebrities and sports stars ARE overpaid, I have to take offense to the apathetic, lazy, and ignorant comments. Tony C, why are you even on here if you do not get into all of that stuff? Tracing back to the dawn of time, people have found ways to entertain themselves and take a break from life for a few. And not getting into politics too much, we as Americans do have issues. And if you want to do something about that, run for office and make some changes. That's why we are called a FREE COUNTRY.

In regards to the movie.... Mr. Ansen, your review of this movie simply shows that you went in with preconceived notions, did not educate yourself on the true nature of the Batman comics, and have clearly been put in the wrong position. Knocked up in the Top Ten? My goodness.

The Dark Knight is named appropriately. A man who watched his parents die, living in the city he lives in, and he's supposed to be funny? Like many others before me have said, go rent one of the previous Batman's. Some of which were made by the same man who make Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and James and the Giant Peach, both children's movies. The movie is true to the comic. Which, I have to say, are NOT all that funny. Comic Strips in papers are funny. Comics? Not neccessarily so. This movie was tremendously acted, well-cast, the effects and score were amazing, and it really is a fantastic movie all around. While seeing Heath Ledger so dark and twisted saddened me, it still amazed me to watch him play the part. This movie is by no means anything I would take a child to, and any parent who thinks this is a child's movie is clearly not researching before they go. It was dark, twisted, somewhat scary at times, yet I did not even want to leave my seat to go to the restroom.

This movie is about the Mafia, money laundering, drugs, villians.... Mr. Ansen, where is the humor in that?
Posted By: Tony C. @ 07/22/2008 12:11:32 PM

Comment: Celebrities" and sports stars are way overpaid, most have NO talent and still make millions. Why are ticket prices $10 and up in some cities? Because people are ignorant enough to pay it and to put millions in the pockets of the "actors????". If the public stopped watching their pathtic shows, buying the tabloid trash, and refused to pay more than $5 for a movie ticket the industry would change in a matter of months. No more paychecks in the millions, no more papparazi chasing them 24/7, etc. These camera and publicity whores would work for nothing to keep their names and faces in the news.

Wake the hell up America. it's no wonder we are a global laughing stock. After 8 years of Bush and the aforementioned, we deserve exactly what we get. Americans are the most apathetic, lazy, ignorant people on the planet and we just allow ourselves to be "dumbed-down" over and over again, 24/7 ....and love it. Pathetic!
Posted By: Tony C. @ 07/22/2008 12:09:02 PM

Comment: "Celebrities" and sports stars are way overpaid, most have NO talent and still millions. Why are ticket prices $10 and up in some cities? Because people are ignorant enough to pay it and to put millions in the pockets of the "actors????". If the public stopped wathcing their pathtic shows, buying the tabloid trash, and refusiintg to pay more than $5 for a movie ticket the industry would change in a matter of mohts. No more paychecks in the millions, no more papparazi chasing the 24/7, etc. These camera and publicity whores would work for nothing to keep their names and faces in the nes.

Wake the hell up America. it's no wonder we are a global laughing stock. After 8 years of Bush and the aforementioned, we deserve exactly what we get. Americans are the most apathetic, lazy, ignorant people on the planet and we just allow ourselves to be "dumbed-down" over and over again, 24/7 ....and love it. Pathetic!
Posted By: Tony C. @ 07/22/2008 12:01:06 PM

Comment: Only in America can so many talentless, self-absorbed, arrogant, trailer trash hacks like Paris Hilton, Nicole Ritchie, Lindsay Lohan, Britney Spears, David Hasselhoff, Brody Jenner, Shauna Sand, Denise Richards, John Mayer, all rap crap "musicians?", Andy Dick, Christian Bale, the Kard"ass"ians, Danny Bonaduce and a thousand others make millions for contributing absolutely NOTHING to society on a daily basis.

If not for TMZ and the tabloid rags these people would have disappeared from the public consciousness long, long agao.

ONLY in AMERICA. Land of the Free, Home of the Insane!
Posted By: Tony C. @ 07/22/2008 11:55:30 AM

Comment: Two reasons why "The Dark Knight" is such a huge box offices success.

1) Heath Ledger is dead and;

2) His performance was outstanding.

If not for special effects, Christian Bale would NOT have a career in the industy, like so many others. :))
Posted By: Tony C. @ 07/22/2008 11:54:12 AM

Comment: .
Posted By: jroberts0078@msn.com @ 07/22/2008 10:46:33 AM

Comment: I LOVED this movie... and I am not usually a big fan of going to the movies. Even someone who has never really read a batman comic can recognize amazing acting. This critic is wrong about the lack of humor..... there was just enough. It would be hard to paint the evil picture of the joker if he constantly paused to make a stupid joke.
- Posted By: Jman259 @ 08/28/2008 4:36:48 PM
  
  Comment: Well, then he shouldn't be named the Joker. They may have well changed his name. Plus didn't Batman train in the mountains with ninjas like half a year ago and now hes getting he butt kicked by mental patients? They never even went into who the dudes in masks were, but you should know and it should be covered! the movie was a two and a half hour mess that should have been two movies filmed back to back and heath ledger may still be alive. joker didnt even have a hideout! harvey dent didnt have a condo, he must have just slept in the office. dude, that movie is so flawwed and rediculous and i dont know how people praise it. bang! pow! i love nolan, but whats up michael bay.
Posted By: Batman33 @ 07/21/2008 2:57:57 PM

Comment: agree with Xianti. David Ansen, why do movies have to be classified? Why does it have to be a "superhero" movie? And you know that Nolan "...wants to prove that a superhero movie needn't be disposable" ? It's a movie. A drama. An excellent movie using an established character with 60+ years of history that is heroic at times. You think Bruce Wayne runs around with smiles, ripping his shirt open to save the day? You're entitled to your opinion, and if you prefer "superhero" movies to be more fun that's fine, but I think movies need to have their labels removed then judgemnets can be limited. Dark Knight is an epic drama, extremely well done and deserves to stand on its own as a worthy accomplishment for all involved; not frowned upon because it wasn't a "...more fun...superhero movie"
Posted By: Equitas @ 07/20/2008 8:35:36 PM

Comment: You and your editor need to be fired.
Posted By: Xianti @ 07/20/2008 12:56:13 PM

Comment: You, David Ansen, are a fool. "'But this is Batman, not 'Hamlet.' Call me shallow, but I wish it were a little more fun." This one sentence alone shows how ignorant and completely out-of-touch you are. For one, Shakespeare was the pulp writer of his day. His works, in the context of his times, was pop fiction -- with regurgitated stories stolen from Greek tragedies. And today's comic books, particularly the Batman franchise, are not the fun kiddie stories you seem to believe they are. This film is about as faithful to the mood of the comics as one can get. If it's "fun" you want, then an honest Batman adaptation is not for you.
- Posted By: Jman259 @ 08/28/2008 4:33:29 PM
  
  Comment: You seriously think that this was a serious Batman adaptation? You all must be out of your minds. 1) Set modern day (that's fine... but yeah). 2) No Bat-cave. 3)NO BATS!!!! 4) Harvey Dent and Bruce don't become friends before he turns. 5) Joker is not a terrorist, sorry... 6) The Joker plays tricks and jokes. 7) Two-Face flips his coin a lot without looking what comes up, it is a habit. And I could keep going on and on and on all day. Yeah, it's fun to watch but as a true and serious adaptation?? no.
Posted By: jerseylova @ 07/20/2008 2:03:48 AM

Comment: "Gone, too, is the antic sense of humor that Tim Burton brought to the show." That statement alone Mr. Ansen made me want to comment on this horrible review. "The Dark Knight" is a masterpiece, the performances, as well as the story was mesmorizing, and left an imprint on you well after the credits rolled. The Joker of 2008 will go down as one of the most celebrated movie villian of all time. Your review was worthless, and you had no real critical notes to point out, other than you probably wish Tim Burton was directing Michael Keaton in this movie. Grow up, understand comics, and Nolan's world, and then write a real review. Go and stick to your Mama Mia's and Space Chimps. The Dark Knight is already a classic, and will go down as the best Batman movie of all time. You write a review based on the overall experience of the movie and actors. I guess you forgot that when you were day dreaming of Batman and Robin. This movie is "4" stars, plus Heath deserves an Oscar. Take that Mr. Ansen.
Posted By: jerseylova @ 07/20/2008 2:02:43 AM

Comment: "Gone, too, is the antic sense of humor that Tim Burton brought to the show." That statement alone Mr. Ansen made me want to comment on this horrible review. "The Dark Knight" is a masterpiece, the performances, as well as the story was mesmorizing, and left an imprint on you well after the credits rolled. The Joker of 2008 will go down as one of the most celebrated movie villian of all time. Your review was worthless, and you had no real critical notes to point out, other than you probably wish Tim Burton was directing Michael Keaton in this movie. Grow up, understand comics, and Nolan's world, and then write a real review. Go and stick to your Mama Mia's and Space Chimps. The Dark Knight is already a classic, and will go down as the best Batman movie of all time. You write a review based on the overall experience of the movie and actors. I guess you forgot that when you were day dreaming of Batman and Robin. This movie is "4" stars, plus Heath deserves an Oscar. Take that Mr. Ansen.
Posted By: crunch86 @ 07/19/2008 7:40:21 PM

Comment: There is always a view critics that write down a review for a film that most critics call a "masterpiece". Is it to make a name for themselves? I, also a movie critic, thought that the new Bat movie could not live up to the hype. I expected it to be good but not great. I'm happy to say that this is one of the few times in my life, that I left the theater planing when is the soonest time I could see this American Masterpiece again. My grade: A+
Posted By: crunch86 @ 07/19/2008 7:39:08 PM

Comment: There is always a view critics that write down a review for a film that most critics call a "masterpiece". Is it to make a name for themselves? I, also a movie critic, thought that the new Bat movie could not live up to the hype. I expected it to be good but not great. I'm happy to say that this is one of the few times in my life, that I left the theater planing when is the soonest time I could see this American Masterpiece again. My grade: A+
Posted By: r_crumb @ 07/19/2008 6:30:14 PM

Comment: ...In other words, Ansen, you don't know what you're talking about. But take heart -- after all this is over with, there'll be a Queen Latifah or some such light-hearted romp that you can review. Maybe something with ballet or opera in it. Pixies and elves will inspire your best review ever. But you're out of your depth here...
Posted By: r_crumb @ 07/19/2008 6:12:50 PM

Comment: Batman isn't "fun" -- that's why the first franchise was killed by George Clooney. Jack Nicholson didn't play The Joker for Tim Burton -- he played Jack Nicholson in whiteface. The '80s/'90s franchise needed to be killed off, because other than the first Keaton, they all sucked. This series by Nolan is the first to treat The Batman as a serious character instead of an episode of "Super-Friends" or that Adam West character. The Joker is a murderous sociopath, and Ledger did his job well. The Batman is a bare-knuckled embodiment of vengeance, and Bale did his job well.

If you're looking for "fun", look elsewhere -- The Batman has been dark for a long time now.
Posted By: BellyAcreFarm @ 07/19/2008 3:37:00 PM

Comment: I really enjoyed the last Batman movie ??? Batman Begins. But even before Heath Ledger's death I was contemplating skipping Dark Knight. When I heard the shocking news of Ledger's overdose, I knew I'd never see this film. Some have said that Heath's immersion in the role of Joker unsettled him, may have contributed to the medications he was taking. I feel like if I were to attend this Batman film, I'd somehow be an accomplice to his tragic death.

If we demand movies that are so dark that actors playing in them must seek psychiatric help, what does that say about our society? There is enough darkness, violence and evil in the real world. I'm not going to watch it as entertainment.
Posted By: BellyAcreFarm @ 07/19/2008 3:36:27 PM

Comment: I really enjoyed the last Batman movie ??? Batman Begins. But even before Heath Ledger's death I was contemplating skipping Dark Knight. When I heard the shocking news of Ledger's overdose, I knew I'd never see this film. Some have said that Heath's immersion in the role of Joker unsettled him, may have contributed to the medications he was taking. I feel like if I were to attend this Batman film, I'd somehow be an accomplice to his tragic death.

If we demand movies that are so dark that actors playing in them must seek psychiatric help, what does that say about our society? There is enough darkness, violence and evil in the real world. I'm not going to watch it as entertainment.
- Posted By: Equitas @ 07/20/2008 8:31:36 PM
  
  Comment: According to Christian Bale, if you truly believe this, you're ignorant.
Posted By: thedalaipython @ 07/18/2008 11:07:12 PM

Comment: Wow. I really don't mean to beat a dead horse here, considering the majority of comments left by the readers before me, but this reviewer has no clue about Christopher Nolan's series of Batman movies. The Burton/Schumacher movies have absolutely nothing to do with Batman Begins and The Dark Knight. From the outset, this new Batman series was announced as being significantly darker and more realistic than any previous Batman incarnation on film, hearkening back to the original comic books and the Frank Miller interpretation. It was not intended to be a continuation of any previous Batman storyline, and needs to be considered its own body of work.

Also, Mr. Ansen apparently didn't pay very close attention to this movie. The Dark Knight was not completely humorless; the interactions between Bruce Wayne and Alfred were laced with witty repartee, and The Joker had plenty of hilarious, albeit dark, comic relief. There were numerous occasions throughout the midnight showing I attended where the audience erupted with laughter.

The Dark Knight is a spectacular piece of film making. It's rare when a movie is executed this well. Christopher Nolan and his team accomplished exactly what they set out to do: create an epic and compelling story that was worthy of following Batman Begins. Anybody who enjoyed the first film in this series will be completely blown away by The Dark Knight. The writing, acting, cinematography, special effects, and music are all exquisite. The Dark Knight is definitely the complete package and does not disappoint.
Posted By: Snaggletooth @ 07/18/2008 10:02:53 AM

Comment: But the graphic novel 'Killing Joke' that Nolan has lifted the story from is too very dark, and completely lacking in any kind of lightness. If you want fun then go and see Kung Fu Panda
Posted By: Darchknight @ 07/15/2008 9:09:39 PM

Comment: They have already made the "fun"/ridiculous batman shows. So now it is time to explore the real batman and not the "fun" batman. These movies are supposed to be realistic. So do you really think that a guy who saw his parents murdered when he was just a boy, travelled the world in order to learn how to take on evil, and now lives in the dirtiest city imaginable would act lighthearted and be having "fun"? YEAH RIGHT!!!!
Posted By: peteyj @ 07/15/2008 2:39:33 PM

Comment: Although the film has a dark outlook, is it completely devoid of humor or humanity? There are some clips (granted, I have not viewed the film) of scenes available online that show even the dour Bruce Wayne has a a sense of humor, despite taking himself too seriously (and he wouldn't be so wonderfully tortured if he didn't take himself seriously). I'm referring particularly to scenes with Christian Bale and Michael Caine.
Posted By: Broadsword @ 07/15/2008 9:43:07 AM

Comment: David, did you see Batman Begins? Your comments about Tim Burton and 'fun' are a little passe now. If the kind of fun you want is a return to the campy shtick of the Schumacher films, then count me out.

This is the way Batman needs to be staged - the character has moved on from the 1980's.
Posted By: thugnasty25 @ 07/14/2008 4:22:12 PM

Comment: YOU SUCK AT LIFE!!!!!!!!
Posted By: Gotothemoon @ 07/14/2008 1:04:49 PM

Comment: It seems this reviewer went into the movie without an understanding of the character. Batman is certainly in the superhero genre, however he is not a superhero. He is a detective. He has more to do with with Film noir type stories than he does with various "supermen". Unfortunately because of the 60's batman and the Joel Schumacher movies people have a distorted view of the character.
Posted By: Santez9 @ 07/14/2008 8:47:39 AM

Comment: Nolan has said this will be a more realistic and darker approach for the character so dont bash it because it is what he sad it would be.
Posted By: Santez9 @ 07/14/2008 8:46:51 AM

Comment: This is why i hate critics sometimes. They complain about the smallest things and trash a film that gets hyped up. Sure, Nolan keeps the camera close to the action, but it more realistic action than what other comic book movies provide which is done all by CGI majority of the time. If you want silliness, then go watch the campy batman from the 60's or Tim Burton's and Joel Shumachers take on the Batman.
Posted By: Santez9 @ 07/14/2008 8:46:18 AM

Comment: This is why i hate critics sometimes. They complain about the smallest things and trash a film that gets hyped up. Sure, Nolan keeps the camera close to the action, but it more realistic action than what other comic book movies provide which is done all by CGI majority of the time. If you want silliness, then go watch the campy batman from the 60's or Tim Burton's and Joel Shumachers take on the Batman.
Posted By: staubination @ 07/13/2008 10:59:00 PM

Comment: dear david:

if you want to see a "fun" batman movie, there are already four of them at your local video store.

most of us want to see something a little more substantive.

xoxo

the viewing public
Posted By: staubination @ 07/13/2008 10:58:42 PM

Comment: dear david:

if you want to see a "fun" batman movie, there are already four of them at your local video store.

most of us want to see something a little more substantive.

xoxo

the viewing public
Posted By: JohnDoe123 @ 07/13/2008 8:07:55 PM

Comment: Mr. Ansen,

You wrote an interesting review and I can appreciate your desire for a more light-hearted Batman. Indeed, Batman has been many things to many people over the years (ie. Bob Kane's vigilante, Dick Sprang's superhero, Adam West's fun sitcom, Bruce Timm's atmospheric cartoon).

However, for you to merely state that you want a "fun" Batman without providing some history or context for your readers about the character displays not only your ignorance, but prejudices the work of many serious writers and artists.

It is a fine thing to hold shallow, baseless opinions. But as a professional critic, such opinions do a disservice to us all.
Posted By: Ilovemovies @ 07/13/2008 8:07:26 PM

Comment: Nothing against Knock up I loved it but it is not a top ten movie (2007 list) So probably you know what kind of movies David Ansen find great. The new Batman movie is going to be long, but with a rich story and great acting that you see in the previews already plus 6 action scenes recorded in Imax there is nothing to worry about it. Remember Iron man was great not for the action (it didn't had to many) but the acting and the story was good.
Posted By: JohnDoe123 @ 07/13/2008 8:06:57 PM

Comment: Mr. Ansen,

You wrote an interesting review and I can appreciate your desire for a more light-hearted Batman. Indeed, Batman has been many things to many people over the years (ie. Bob Kane's vigilante, Dick Sprang's superhero, Adam West's fun sitcom, Bruce Timm's atmospheric cartoon).

However, for you to merely state that you want a "fun" Batman without providing some history or context for your readers about the character displays not only your ignorance, but prejudices the work of many serious writers and artists.

It is a fine thing to hold shallow, baseless opinions. But as a professional critic, such opinions do a disservice to us all.
Posted By: Ilovemovies @ 07/13/2008 8:00:17 PM

Comment: When you have a movie like knock up in the top ten list of the 2007 movies ..... You probably know why he didn't like the dark knight that much. Nothing against Knock up I loved it but is not a top ten movie.
Posted By: deathmetalbrian @ 07/13/2008 7:42:36 PM

Comment: wow, this guy really doesn't get it. why is he working for newsweek?
Posted By: Choozy_Guy @ 07/13/2008 2:08:37 PM

Comment: The question of wheter one must be as ruthless as one's foes is an age old question central to Batman. I, unlike shallow critic, am glad the series returned toward its roots.
Posted By: shannon76 @ 07/13/2008 1:36:37 PM

Comment: "Call me shallow, but I wish it were a little more fun."
Ok. Done:
You're shallow.
Posted By: shannon76 @ 07/13/2008 1:35:52 PM

Comment: "Call me shallow, but I wish it were a little more fun."
Ok...
You're shallow.
Posted By: MustRunFaster @ 07/13/2008 12:48:19 PM

Comment: How is a movie that, from what I've heard, has great acting, great script, and great directing all of a sudden "just of the fans"? Are Americans really just that shallow? Do people really just want more mindless junk like "Batman and Robin"? I am not a Batman fan. But I loved Batman Begins and will probably love TDK, too, because they're well-made movies. "Too serious"? Are people only wanting comedies nowadays? WTF?
Posted By: mickael @ 07/13/2008 4:47:19 AM

Comment: Many people said the same thing about the first one, Batman Begins. And I love it all the same. You want a shallow superhero movie with mindless action and little plot? Go see The Incredible Hulk. You'll enjoy your self for its mere couple hours running time and then walk out of the parking lost only thinking about "where the hell is my car?" and "I hope the dog didn't *** on the rug." The Dark Knight was brilliant.
Posted By: mickael @ 07/13/2008 4:47:00 AM

Comment: Many people said the same thing about the first one, Batman Begins. And I love it all the same. You want a shallow superhero movie with mindless action and little plot? Go see The Incredible Hulk. You'll enjoy your self for its mere couple hours running time and then walk out of the parking lost only thinking about "where the hell is my car?" and "I hope the dog didn't *** on the rug." The Dark Knight was brilliant.
Posted By: Ruester @ 07/13/2008 1:21:54 AM

Comment: Ryder, you make a very valid point and in many ways, say exactly what I was thinking myself. However, Mr. Ansen's assessments about the film will be the same remarks you will hear from couples behind you as you are walking back to your car on July 18th after seeing the film. Now, is this a bad thing? Certainly not. In fact, you and I, and every other Batman fan should be writing a letter to Christopher Nolan (including his brother and David Goyer for the remarkable writing of the script), thanking him and everyone else responsible for making casual movie goers say such things. Why you may ask? Because this a multi-million gift, given to the true fans. This movie is for all the people who use "The Dark Knight Returns" as a benchmark for any story telling medium about character. In fact, I am willing to bet this is the closest we will come to TDKR in the foreseeable future. Furthermore, Nolan has managed to create a piece of work which not only blends fantasy with reality, but almost blurs the line completely. This movie is being compared to Michael Mann's "Heat" and de Palma's "The Untouchables." When was the last time a comic book film was compared to modern day classics? So, after the credits roll, and you start your walk back to the parking lot, and hear some guy's girlfriend saying that it was "too dark" or "it was too serious." Just smile and say to yourself: This movie was made for us, the fans, everyone else watching it, is it seeing by privilege.
Posted By: Lucy Fir @ 07/13/2008 1:04:20 AM

Comment: Sick of the Batperson fanboys, myself. Get a life. Also, the review was more than acceptable. Not everyone likes watching 2.5 hours of some dude dressed in latex jumping through a fake set. This isn't "Days of Heaven". It's some cheesy comic movie, chrissakes. And that absence of a sense of humor will do this movie in. Remember, with great power comes great responsibility. BARF.
- Posted By: Ilovemovies @ 07/13/2008 8:18:11 PM
  
  Comment: That's the problem you need to know more about movies to then make your critic valid.
Posted By: Lucy Fir @ 07/13/2008 1:01:44 AM

Comment: Test
Posted By: Eddie Jenkins @ 07/13/2008 12:05:08 AM

Comment: David Ansen,

Before you publish your articles you might want to learn the names of the villains in them. His name is Harvey Two-Face not Harvey Two-Faced. Go buy a comic book.
Posted By: Growl Ryder @ 07/12/2008 5:49:34 PM

Comment: Dear Mr. Ansen, I'm not going to sit here and admonish you for a lack of clarity and vision with regards to this film as some of the other responses here have. C'mon folks, his job is to analyze movies in the context of a wide public audience, especially when you're talking about a blockbuster, and especially one being released in mid-summer. While I applaud your sharpened wits and sophisticated cinematic pallets, you have to realize that the majority of he public who shows up at a Batman movie (geek-fandom aside) probably anticipate a popcorn-munching Burton-esque slam-bang affair, and this review serves as a fair warning to that demographic that mayhaps their dollars would be better spent on another feature. That nod to fair play aside, Ansen (as with most reviewers, let's be honest) is apparently only familiar with the pop icon version of Batman. No doubt he's seen a few episodes of the Adam West tv show, all the various big-screen outings (of course), and maybe he was even savvy enough to catch an episode or two of "Batman: The Animated Series", but I'm guessing he's never read a single Batman comicbook in his life. Well, neither have most of the people who will flood theaters on the 18th, and therein lies the reason why I think this review is good in a "preemptive warning" sort of way. The essence of Batman, and his universe, is darkness. Period. Nolan (from what I've seen and read in the past month or so), has finally brought that essence to the big screen. Batman is a scary, haunted, twisted, bada** of a man whose demons and determination often place him just shy of the lunacy of his foes. (Excepting the two villains we're going to get in this one, Two-Face and The Joker, his two greatest adversaries, not for their physical threat factor, but because psychologically the former is a reflection of the hero, while the latter is his complete antithesis.) This stuff is supposed to be dark, conflicted, mentally and emotionally harrowing, and the fact that Ansen likely finds this film too heavy because he doesn't have the proper context for the characters. I hope the other posts here, with their faith in the public to assimilate and deal with such a dramatic tone in a "comicbook film", are correct, but you can't blame the guy for anticipating that the average summer moviegoer may not enjoy this kind of fare.
Posted By: Growl Ryder @ 07/12/2008 5:49:08 PM

Comment: Dear Mr. Ansen, I'm not going to sit here and admonish you for a lack of clarity and vision with regards to this film as some of the other responses here have. C'mon folks, his job is to analyze movies in the context of a wide public audience, especially when you're talking about a blockbuster, and especially one being released in mid-summer. While I applaud your sharpened wits and sophisticated cinematic pallets, you have to realize that the majority of he public who shows up at a Batman movie (geek-fandom aside) probably anticipate a popcorn-munching Burton-esque slam-bang affair, and this review serves as a fair warning to that demographic that mayhaps their dollars would be better spent on another feature. That nod to fair play aside, Ansen (as with most reviewers, let's be honest) is apparently only familiar with the pop icon version of Batman. No doubt he's seen a few episodes of the Adam West tv show, all the various big-screen outings (of course), and maybe he was even savvy enough to catch an episode or two of "Batman: The Animated Series", but I'm guessing he's never read a single Batman comicbook in his life. Well, neither have most of the people who will flood theaters on the 18th, and therein lies the reason why I think this review is good in a "preemptive warning" sort of way. The essence of Batman, and his universe, is darkness. Period. Nolan (from what I've seen and read in the past month or so), has finally brought that essence to the big screen. Batman is a scary, haunted, twisted, bada** of a man whose demons and determination often place him just shy of the lunacy of his foes. (Excepting the two villains we're going to get in this one, Two-Face and The Joker, his two greatest adversaries, not for their physical threat factor, but because psychologically the former is a reflection of the hero, while the latter is his complete antithesis.) This stuff is supposed to be dark, conflicted, mentally and emotionally harrowing, and the fact that Ansen likely finds this film too heavy because he doesn't have the proper context for the characters. I hope the other posts here, with their faith in the public to assimilate and deal with such a dramatic tone in a "comicbook film", are correct, but you can't blame the guy for anticipating that the average summer moviegoer may not enjoy this kind of fare.
Posted By: ArchangelSeven @ 07/12/2008 8:49:18 AM

Comment: In other words, this film Mr. Ansen, has more to do with Shakespeare than it does with any of the now-dwarfed Burton "Batman" films before it and the candy coated boffo popcorn films of any given summer. Its too bad that your looking behind rather than looking ahead, unlike Nolan or the audience intelligent and mature enough to grasp the depth of this film. Your time and your conceptual boundaries are 52 miles back sir. I suggest you start hitchhiking that way because the rest of us are going the other way.
Posted By: ArchangelSeven @ 07/12/2008 8:41:14 AM

Comment: If anything, Mr. Ansen unknowingly, and bumbling I might add, through his critique is telling us this is an avant-garde piece of excellence by declaring his notion of what a comic book movie is supposed to be and how this movie is not in that realm. Thank you David "Drebin" Ansen, Max Smart would be proud. I personally like movies that push boundaries and defy conventional knowledge because it not only challenges a general assumption but also challenges the individual perspective. That my friend is the hallmark of brilliance. Make the audience question themselves. In view of this films moral and personal dilemmas, it is a shame that this film was wasted on a reviewer with such a dull critical blade that he cannot see the vibrant and seething elements of tragedy, comedy, and drama that make the bleakest, pitch black corner of "The Dark Knight" an unlimited vista of incomprehensible color and breathtaking vision that threatens only to tread where the masters like Shakespeare, Hemingway, or Conrad have dared to deliver those brave enough to grasp their literary hands.
Posted By: ArchangelSeven @ 07/12/2008 8:39:34 AM

Comment: If anything, Mr. Ansen unknowingly, and bumbling I might add, through his critique is telling us this is an avant-garde piece of excellence by declaring his notion of what a comic book movie is supposed to be and how this movie is not in that realm. Thank you David "Drebin" Ansen, Max Smart would be proud. I personally like movies that push boundaries and defy conventional knowledge because it not only challenges a general assumption but also challenges the individual perspective. That my friend is the hallmark of brilliance. Make the audience question themselves. In view of this films moral and personal dilemmas, it is a shame that this film was wasted on a reviewer with such a dull critical blade that he cannot see the vibrant and seething elements of tragedy, comedy, and drama that make the bleakest, pitch black corner of "The Dark Knight" an unlimited vista of incomprehensible color and breathtaking vision that threatens only to tread where the masters like Shakespeare, Hemingway, or Conrad have dared to deliver those brave enough to grasp their literary hands.
Posted By: mjkittredge @ 07/11/2008 11:36:32 PM

Comment: The glass is half empty for movie critics
Posted By: zoosnug @ 07/11/2008 10:28:15 PM

Comment: "Call me shallow, but I wish it were a little more fun."

my pleasure... you're shallow.
Posted By: zoosnug @ 07/11/2008 10:27:46 PM

Comment: "Call me shallow, but I wish it were a little more fun."

my pleasure... you're shallow.
Posted By: jhayl @ 07/11/2008 9:39:34 PM

Comment: Somebody needs to find this guy, sit down with him and educate him about the craft of movie-making.

I'm offering.
Posted By: jhayl @ 07/11/2008 9:38:45 PM

Comment: Holy carrrr-ap, man. Seriously, this review made no sense at all. I've seen the movie, and folks- trust me- it's an exhilirating thrill ride, start to finish.

Did Die Hard bore you as well with its lack of action?
Posted By: jhayl @ 07/11/2008 9:37:53 PM

Comment: Holy carrr-ap man...your review didn't even make sense. I've seen the movie, and it was a thrill-ride, start to finish.

Did Die Hard bore you with its limited action as well?
Posted By: ThisIsHamlet @ 07/11/2008 9:33:36 PM

Comment: You know, I was all set to write a reply to this review, but I see most of the work has already been done for me.

Mr. Ansen, you *completely* undermine your own review with your last few sentences. They show that you went into the movie with a closed mind and without the intention of reviewing the film based on its own merits. You clearly have your own set of assumptions and expectations of what one should expect out of a "comic book" movie, and as you can see from the responses, it would appear that quite a few people disagree with your somewhat limited perspective.

I'll show you a simple example of how ridiculous those last few sentences were by tacking them on to your review of "There WIll Be Blood":
""There Will Be Blood" is ferocious, and it will be championed and attacked with an equal ferocity. When the dust settles, we may look back on it as some kind of obsessed classic. But this is a western about oil, not "Hamlet." Call me shallow, but I wish it were a little more fun."
Posted By: J-Bone @ 07/11/2008 9:25:11 PM

Comment: This is the worst review I have read about TDK and I have read probably close to all of them on the internet, no joke. Three paragraphs? I've scribbled out better reviews in my sleep.
Posted By: petervogt @ 07/11/2008 7:42:47 PM

Comment: You're shallow.

Batman is at his core a very dark, violent, brooding figure. Just a comic book? Comic books are the modern mythos, just as WoW is the new golf. This is the new world, David. It's not all wink-wink, nod-nod, isn't that silly kid stuff anymore.
Posted By: walter17 @ 07/11/2008 6:33:12 PM

Comment: no thank you. i'm sick of batman. 5 movies and countless animation series. batman is over satuated and i do not plan to watch a remake. this batman movie looks totally sucks.
Posted By: walter17 @ 07/11/2008 6:31:54 PM

Comment: no thank you. i'm sick of batman. 5 movies and countless animation series. batman is over satuated and i do not plan to watch a remake. this batman movie looks totally sucks.
Posted By: patsfan5480 @ 07/11/2008 4:31:45 PM

Comment: Batman is a dark character in a dark world going up against dark enemies. You're surprised that The Dark Knight is a dark movie? I'm confident this film is going to be the greatest comic book film of all time. The darker the better!
Posted By: dlb015 @ 07/11/2008 3:46:58 PM

Comment: Ok, I'll call you shallow then. I don't mind him not liking the movie, but sheesh, this was not intended to be a popcorn film. Why is there a double standard then with the oscar season films and The Dark Knight? No Country for Old Men, for instance, was dark and grim...yet no one claimed it needed to be a lot of fun. It won best picture. Everyone knows this film will be pitch black and perhaps even depressing. Thinking a comic book movie has to be fun will lead to a bad review. If you know this movie will be like this, you can probably discard Mr. Ansen's viewpoint.
Posted By: dlb015 @ 07/11/2008 3:46:30 PM

Comment: Ok, I'll call you shallow then. I don't mind him not liking the movie, but sheesh, this was not intended to be a popcorn film. Why is there a double standard then with the oscar season films and The Dark Knight? No Country for Old Men, for instance, was dark and grim...yet no one claimed it needed to be a lot of fun. It won best picture. Everyone knows this film will be pitch black and perhaps even depressing. Thinking a comic book movie has to be fun will lead to a bad review. If you know this movie will be like this, you can probably discard Mr. Ansen's viewpoint.
Posted By: change@charter.net @ 07/11/2008 3:42:24 PM

Comment: i guess that means you wanted a kid movie ....i for one am happy they are making superhero movies for adults. i loved batman as a kid .... and the tim burton movies were good .....but not really batman ....they just had batman in them....these new ones seem to capture the essence of batman....i agree with farfan ....bale is by far the best batman yet ....and nolans movies ...are too. i can not wait to see this film.
Posted By: jamiefriggin @ 07/11/2008 3:39:41 PM

Comment: I have to say that after reading this review, I want to see this movie even more. No campiness? No jokes? A gritty, striking, beautiful portrayal of a moral dilemma for the ages? Sounds less like a crap Hollywood blockbuster and more like European cinema, only with incredible action sequences that rarely rely on CGI. Thank you, Chris Nolan, for not meeting David Ansen's shallow expectations. Our entertainment these days is already dumbed-down enough.
Posted By: dsm2022 @ 07/11/2008 3:31:33 PM

Comment: Geez... not Hamlet. Of course it's not Hamlet. If you're honestly comparing Chris Nolan to Shakespeare than I question you're crit abilities and techniques. If you added that as a throwaway line to make the point that the comic book genre can't be interpreted as a gritty, dark art form that can make larger existential points about the human condition, you're not giving the genre any credit and I, again, question you're abilities to generate honest, thoughtful critique. If you wrote the line just b/c you wanted some campy summer fun w/o thought and didn't get it, don't ruin you're own critique by basing it on a set of assumptions beforehand. Instead, do us all a favor and review "Meet Dave" instead and leave the serious movie reviews for serious moviewatchers.
Posted By: Farfan @ 07/11/2008 3:28:11 PM

Comment: I am going to go ahead and call you shallow. The amusing thing is that if it were "more fun" you would comment on its "overthetopness." Let be real. It is about time that someone really makes a superhero movie that is more than a suit, Christian Bale has passion and is, by far, the best Batman. If you want fun take in Tobey in Spiderman.
Posted By: cllorin412 @ 07/11/2008 3:19:21 PM

Comment: Hmm...i think Nolan and Bale are taking Batman in the correct direction. More fun? What part of the dark character that Batman and the villians he encounters is supposed to be fun? Fight an anarchic, psycopathic Joker and crack a joke or two along the way so you could feel like its not so serious? Wow, what kind of critique is that? Batman is a complex and dark character that screams internal drama and character development but Mr. Ansen wants it to return to the Joel Schumacher days of campiness? I had hoped people got past the nipples on the bat-suit phase. One or the other folks. I think Nolan has done the best job with Batman hands down. Tim Burton can have the elaborate sets and darkness, but Nolan actually emulates Batman's thematic darkness by the compelling drama around him.
Posted By: Disgruntled and Disgusted @ 07/11/2008 3:19:09 PM

Comment: Call you shallow? Done. You're shallow. Go review reality tv programming or something and leave the real movie reviewing to adults. Shallow.
Posted By: Bono @ 07/11/2008 2:54:01 PM

Comment: "When you're fighting an enemy who plays by no rules, do you have to abandon your own moral code to vanquish him?" Boy, isn't that a metaphor for something else...

"let's pray we don't become a monster in order to defeat the monster"...
Posted By: Bono @ 07/11/2008 2:52:59 PM

Comment: "When you're fighting an enemy who plays by no rules, do you have to abandon your own moral code to vanquish him?" Boy, isn't that a metaphor for something esle...

"let's pray we don't become a monster in order to defeat the monster..."
Posted By: ultimatefan2008 @ 07/11/2008 2:13:40 PM

Comment: Sorry about the double post..
Posted By: EffYou @ 07/11/2008 2:09:40 PM

Comment: You must build additional pylons.
Posted By: EffYou @ 07/11/2008 2:08:59 PM

Comment: moar loli please
Posted By: ultimatefan2008 @ 07/11/2008 2:08:02 PM

Comment: To me this kind of review still seems to assume Batman can´t be in a serious work of art, and to me that´s a dated and prejudiced POV. Burton´s movies are also pretty dark if you compare them to most blockbusters. Batman is a dark and gritty character, that´s how he was mean to be pretty much from the start, that´s who he is. I guess some people will never get over the "dressed up like a bat" thing, but then again shouldn´t we dismiss Frankenstein, Jekyll and Hyde? Kafka´s The Metamorphosis is about a guy who turns into a giant cockroach, for Chrissakes.
Posted By: ultimatefan2008 @ 07/11/2008 2:06:33 PM

Comment: To me this kind of review still seems to assume Batman can´t be in a serious work of art, and to me that´s a dated and prejudiced POV. Burton´s movies are also pretty dark if you compare them to most blockbusters. Batman is a dark and gritty character, that´s how he was meant to be from inception, that´s who he is. I guess some people will never get over the "dressed up like a bat" thing, but then again shouldn´t we dismiss Frankenstein, Jekyll and Hyde? Kafka´s The Metamorphosis is about a guy who turns into a giant cockroach, for Chrissakes.
Posted By: symphony @ 07/11/2008 2:02:59 PM

Comment: "This is Batman not Hamlet". If Kubrick thought "this is a sci-fi movie not a Luis Buñuel movie", 2001: A Space Odyssey would have never existed and the sci-fi genre would be still garbage. I think you should get your thoughts straight and rewrite this review before someone else read this and throw your reputation to the garbage.
- Posted By: izzyj53934 @ 07/22/2008 12:57:10 PM
  
  Comment: I'm not sure how many comics Mr. Ansen has read, but very few are lighthearted and humorous. This film was exactly how it was portrayed: dark, realistic, gritty, emotional. Batman movies of the past have been light-hearted and humorous. Hello! The same guy who did a few of the earlier ones is the same guy who did Edward Scissorhands, Big Fish, and James and the Giant Peach. Enough said there. This movie is absolutely amazing. While I do have to admit, I had a very hard time seeing Heath Ledger, he did a phenomenal job representing the Joker as who he is - A maniacal psychopath. And anyone who thinks that the joker is supposed to be funny doesn't know the character, just as many have mentioned previously. Batman is not a humorous, funny kind of guy. He's vengance for Gotham City. And to be honest, a very accurate representation of what kind of superhero we need. This movie is not touted as The Incredibles.... it's named The Dark Knight for a reason. Excellently acted, produced, scored, edited. An amazing movie.

Top Story

Latest News

Gotham City’s Grave New World

Discuss

Posted By: the.mounts @ 11/22/2008 9:37:28 AM

Posted By: zg68557 @ 10/31/2008 12:29:37 PM

Posted By: remixfa @ 08/05/2008 10:43:43 PM

Posted By: docfilms @ 07/30/2008 1:32:08 PM

Posted By: izzyj53934 @ 07/22/2008 1:11:32 PM

Posted By: Tony C. @ 07/22/2008 12:11:32 PM

Posted By: Tony C. @ 07/22/2008 12:09:02 PM

Posted By: Tony C. @ 07/22/2008 12:01:06 PM

Posted By: Tony C. @ 07/22/2008 11:55:30 AM

Posted By: Tony C. @ 07/22/2008 11:54:12 AM

Posted By: jroberts0078@msn.com @ 07/22/2008 10:46:33 AM

Posted By: Jman259 @ 08/28/2008 4:36:48 PM

Posted By: Batman33 @ 07/21/2008 2:57:57 PM

Posted By: Equitas @ 07/20/2008 8:35:36 PM

Posted By: Xianti @ 07/20/2008 12:56:13 PM

Posted By: Jman259 @ 08/28/2008 4:33:29 PM

Posted By: jerseylova @ 07/20/2008 2:03:48 AM

Posted By: jerseylova @ 07/20/2008 2:02:43 AM

Posted By: crunch86 @ 07/19/2008 7:40:21 PM

Posted By: crunch86 @ 07/19/2008 7:39:08 PM

Posted By: r_crumb @ 07/19/2008 6:30:14 PM

Posted By: r_crumb @ 07/19/2008 6:12:50 PM

Posted By: BellyAcreFarm @ 07/19/2008 3:37:00 PM

Posted By: BellyAcreFarm @ 07/19/2008 3:36:27 PM

Posted By: Equitas @ 07/20/2008 8:31:36 PM

Posted By: thedalaipython @ 07/18/2008 11:07:12 PM

Posted By: Snaggletooth @ 07/18/2008 10:02:53 AM

Posted By: Darchknight @ 07/15/2008 9:09:39 PM

Posted By: peteyj @ 07/15/2008 2:39:33 PM

Posted By: Broadsword @ 07/15/2008 9:43:07 AM

Posted By: thugnasty25 @ 07/14/2008 4:22:12 PM

Posted By: Gotothemoon @ 07/14/2008 1:04:49 PM

Posted By: Santez9 @ 07/14/2008 8:47:39 AM

Posted By: Santez9 @ 07/14/2008 8:46:51 AM

Posted By: Santez9 @ 07/14/2008 8:46:18 AM

Posted By: staubination @ 07/13/2008 10:59:00 PM

Posted By: staubination @ 07/13/2008 10:58:42 PM

Posted By: JohnDoe123 @ 07/13/2008 8:07:55 PM

Posted By: Ilovemovies @ 07/13/2008 8:07:26 PM

Posted By: JohnDoe123 @ 07/13/2008 8:06:57 PM

Posted By: Ilovemovies @ 07/13/2008 8:00:17 PM

Posted By: deathmetalbrian @ 07/13/2008 7:42:36 PM

Posted By: Choozy_Guy @ 07/13/2008 2:08:37 PM

Posted By: shannon76 @ 07/13/2008 1:36:37 PM

Posted By: shannon76 @ 07/13/2008 1:35:52 PM

Posted By: MustRunFaster @ 07/13/2008 12:48:19 PM

Posted By: mickael @ 07/13/2008 4:47:19 AM

Posted By: mickael @ 07/13/2008 4:47:00 AM

Posted By: Ruester @ 07/13/2008 1:21:54 AM

Posted By: Lucy Fir @ 07/13/2008 1:04:20 AM

Posted By: Ilovemovies @ 07/13/2008 8:18:11 PM

Posted By: Lucy Fir @ 07/13/2008 1:01:44 AM

Posted By: Eddie Jenkins @ 07/13/2008 12:05:08 AM

Posted By: Growl Ryder @ 07/12/2008 5:49:34 PM

Posted By: Growl Ryder @ 07/12/2008 5:49:08 PM

Posted By: ArchangelSeven @ 07/12/2008 8:49:18 AM

Posted By: ArchangelSeven @ 07/12/2008 8:41:14 AM

Posted By: ArchangelSeven @ 07/12/2008 8:39:34 AM

Posted By: mjkittredge @ 07/11/2008 11:36:32 PM

Posted By: zoosnug @ 07/11/2008 10:28:15 PM

Posted By: zoosnug @ 07/11/2008 10:27:46 PM

Posted By: jhayl @ 07/11/2008 9:39:34 PM

Posted By: jhayl @ 07/11/2008 9:38:45 PM

Posted By: jhayl @ 07/11/2008 9:37:53 PM

Posted By: ThisIsHamlet @ 07/11/2008 9:33:36 PM

Posted By: J-Bone @ 07/11/2008 9:25:11 PM

Posted By: petervogt @ 07/11/2008 7:42:47 PM

Posted By: walter17 @ 07/11/2008 6:33:12 PM

Posted By: walter17 @ 07/11/2008 6:31:54 PM

Posted By: patsfan5480 @ 07/11/2008 4:31:45 PM

Posted By: dlb015 @ 07/11/2008 3:46:58 PM

Posted By: dlb015 @ 07/11/2008 3:46:30 PM

Posted By: change@charter.net @ 07/11/2008 3:42:24 PM

Posted By: jamiefriggin @ 07/11/2008 3:39:41 PM

Posted By: dsm2022 @ 07/11/2008 3:31:33 PM

Posted By: Farfan @ 07/11/2008 3:28:11 PM