There have been very few film trilogies in history where all three films in the series are so highly regarded. There is usually one film that is not so great. But Christopher Nolan has managed to make a perfect film trilogy. All three films in this series are a work of cinematic brilliance. It was a long held belief that films with comic book heroes could not be taken seriously. Chris has managed to elevate them to a higher level where they can be seen as great crime dramas that just happen to feature a man who dresses up in a bat costume. Chris certainly raised the bar for others who will follow him.
'The Dark Knight Rises' continues the brilliance that was established in the previous two films. Christopher Nolan has brought the epic trilogy to a close with a film that has so much going on. I will need several viewings to fully appreciate its majesty. Chris and his writing team have infused the film with themes and issues which hold so much relevance to us a society today. They were never content in making a film where a good guy just fights a bad guy. There is many different layers to the story and you can read so much into what is going on. The writers have drawn on many different plot elements to bring this story to live. As well as referencing some classic pieces of literature and history. Proving that history does repeat itself. More so than 'The Dark Knight', this film does rely on you having seen the previous film but you should not let you get put off seeing it. It also references elements from 'Batman Begins' so that it really feels like the story has come full circle. Chris also knows how to stage great action sequences and this film is no exception. I think there is a little less of it here than in previous films but you don't feel any worse off. If I had one minor observation it would be in the character of Bane. The Joker was such an iconic villain so anyone who followed him would have a tough time. The Joker is a very grand theatrical villain and he is not restrained by a mask which covers most of his face. Bane is not a bad character and while he suits the plot, you just want more.
Christian Bale is such an amazing actor and once again brings his brilliance to the role of Bruce Wayne and Batman. There is not only the duality of his character but all the elements he has to endure. Michael Caine I thought was particularly great this time around. He brings some sweetness and emotion to Alfred. Morgan Freeman once again gives a nicely distinguished performance. Gary Oldman proves how diverse he can be and is able to display the conflict his character is feeling. I don't know what it is about Anne Hathaway but she just keeps getting better with each role she takes. She is able to bring her own unique take on a character who has been played by many different actresses in the past. The way she can change her characters emotions so quickly is something to behold. Marion Cotillard does a marvelous job with a character who has many different sides. Tom Hardy is excellent as Bane but as mentioned above he is rather restrained in being able to emote. He is really just a creepy voice, but he plays that very well. I was also impressed with Matthew Modine and was pleasantly surprised to see Aussie actor Ben Mendelsohn playing a key role. My favourite performer though was Joseph Gordon-Levitt. I have followed Joseph since he first came to prominence in the TV series '3rd Rock From The Sun'. He is great in every film he does. But here he surpassed himself and manages to make his character that little bit better.
A fitting conclusion to a work of cinematic brilliance. I pity anyone who tries to re-boot Batman in preparation for the inevitable Justice League movie.
No comments:
Post a Comment