The Batman (2022), directed by Matt Reeves and starring Robert Pattinson, Zoë Kravitz, and Paul Dano, was one of the year’s most anticipated films. Fans of Gotham’s best detective might enjoy The Batman, which is a dark and gritty Batman picture. Despite the fact that it took me a long time to get into this nearly three-hour cinematic showcase, it is ultimately a multi-layered detective noir meets action thriller that may be one of the best Batman movies to date. 

When a ruthless killer leaves a trail of cryptic clues, Batman goes underground in Gotham City. He must develop new contacts, unmask the offender, and deliver justice to the misuse of power and corruption that has long plagued the metropolis. As the evidence leads closer to home, the enormity of the perpetrator’s ambitions become apparent.

The Batman is an actual work of art. It’s about more than just solving a mystery; it’s about exposing corruption in Gotham City, making it feel memorable while also providing more substance than many other movies. The atmosphere that Matt Reeves creates here is incredible. Gotham is the best it’s ever been; it’s filthy, dark, and filled with fear and corruption. Giacchino’s musical score is outstanding and one of the best for a Batman film. Greg Fraser’s cinematography is incredible; there are so many memorable shots and gorgeous colors and eye-popping lighting when the film goes all out. 

Robert Pattinson is a fantastic Batman who is both vulnerable and imposing. This is probably my favorite live-action portrayal of Batman I’ve ever seen. He’s a terrifying force of nature, and the way criminals react to him is brilliantly depicted. This film recognizes that Bruce Wayne is the man behind the mask. Another aspect of The Batman that I appreciated was the idea that this is only Batman’s second year, which means we get to witness him make errors.

The supporting cast is also fantastic, with Paul Dano and Colin Ferrell standing out as the Riddler and the Penguin, who steal the show every time they appear on the screen. The Riddler is a fantastic villain with real motives. The Riddler’s character is elevated to a whole new level in The Batman, as fans are introduced to a very dark and twisted nature that is wonderfully and eerily depicted. Catwoman or Selina, played by Zoe Kravitz, was terrific. By far the best Catwoman seen on screen. Not only did she have a perfect look, the way she talked and moved felt so spot on to the character. 

Furthermore, Batman’s dark tone and violent feel, combined with The Riddler’s truly sinful nature and Batman’s obvious mental suffering throughout the picture, raises this film to a new level not previously seen in Batman films. Overall, I would give this movie a 4 out of 5 stars. Although the movie felt a little long and dragged out at times, I think the film was played out perfectly.