Director: Christopher Nolan
Starring: Christian Bale, Tom Hardy, Anne Hathaway, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Gary Oldman, Morgan Freeman, Michael Caine and Marion Cottilard.
Run Time: 164 minutes
Certificate: 12a
IMDb summary: Eight years on, a new terrorist leader, Bane, overwhelms Gotham's finest, and the Dark Knight resurfaces to protect a city that has branded him an enemy.
"You don't owe these people anymore. You've given them everything," explains the seductive Selina Kyle (in the trailer, that is) to a determined Batman, who merely replies; "Not everything. Not yet". A fitting quote it would seem, when considering 2008's 'The Dark Knight', in which audiences were truly given everything, including a near perfect film. But similarly to the caped crusader, it also appears that Director, and genius, Christopher Nolan still has a few more tricks up his sleeve. A taut, sophisticated and stylish piece of film making, 'The Dark Knight Rises' is a brilliant conclusion that exceeds any, if all, the expectations that were thrust upon it from the moment production began.
Even from the opening scene, in which we are introduced to the new, and physically larger, antagonist Bane, there is no doubt that Nolan is going to deliver the goods. And from that moment on, the film propels to new heights at an excruciatingly pleasurable pace, weaving intricate character strands and an elaborate storyline together in order to create a spectacular journey from beginning to end. At a gargantuan 2 and 3/4 hours long, there is no aspect within this now historic trilogy of films left untouched - every loose end is tied up with such a capable and distinguished directorial flair that one can not only appreciate the mark of a great film maker, but a great auteur too.
This can also be considered the most emotional of the three films, given that Bruce Wayne is, as a consequence of Batman taking the blame for Harvey Dent's murder, a shadow of his former self; he walks around with a stick and hasn't left his house for eight years. Unfortunate though it may seem, it is still narratively advantageous, as we are provided with some incredibly moving scenes between Wayne and reliable butler Alfred, played brilliantly by Michael Caine, of which are sure to pull at your heartstrings and bring a tear to your eye. In a film of such scale, moments like these are truly treasured, and bring the fantastical element back down to reality. It must be said that Caine has never been better. It is perhaps the introduction of Selina Kyle, aka jewel thief Catwoman, that sets events in motion. Though there was much speculation and doubt when Anne Hathaway was given the coveted role, it's safe to say she pulls off the iconic character effortlessly, adding just the right amount of sex appeal and humor to an otherwise dark and gritty blockbuster.
For those craving action, never fear, Nolan doesn't disappoint. Magnificent chase sequences, combat and even flying over Gotham skylights are all included, and when combined with Hans Zimmer's masterful score, you're in for a real treat. Again, the opening plane sequence is particularly extraordinary, not least because the entire scene was created with no computer effects or green screen - there are no words to describe just how mind-blowing it actually is. Technically, to have accomplished so much with so little CGI is a feat indeed, and credits greatly the production crew, whom Nolan has worked with frequently throughout his films. 'The Dark Knight Rises' is a film that balances perfectly these moments of utter grandeur with those of a more quiet and intimate nature, allowing the audience to become emotionally invested in the characters whilst they battle through such spectacular circumstances.
So, let's address someone that everyone is talking about, a certain Mr Tom Hardy. There is no doubt that Heath Ledger's chilling Oscar winning performance as The Joker in 'The Dark Knight', was a fine one indeed, and arguably the best villain in the trilogy. Yet Hardy's portrayal of the anarchic and theatrical Bane is equally terrifying, and even more challenging, given that his mouth is covered throughout the whole film. It seems eyes actually do hold the key to your soul, and Hardy's ferocious, savage and intuitive expressions capture Bane perfectly, as well as his dramatic accent. The actor is a force to be reckoned with. The way in which Nolan has crafted Bane in particular emits a certain social resonance, as, via the formidable character, we are introduced to corrupt hierarchical themes, in which Bane ignites a war between the social classes. Just another reason why the film has a contemporary significance and realism.
All in all, it's impossible to summarise the brilliance of the ensemble cast. Each individual plays a pivotal role in the plot, thus demonstrates the reflection of Nolan's skilled and undeniably controlled script. If there's always been one constant factor maintained throughout the trilogy, it's the amazing cast.
So the end has finally been brought upon us, and what a way to say goodbye to the timeless Batman. From this final installment, as well as all three films collectively, it's obvious why everyone adores Nolan's creation, why it's critically acclaimed, why it's constantly talked about, why fans adore it and why it will stand the test of time - because there is simply nothing else that comes close. A fitting, and utterly enthralling conclusion, to what will now be surely known as the greatest film trilogy of all time.
Words just aren't enough.
