The Batman (2022) Review
I made my way back to a movie theatre for the first time since the pandemic on a wet March afternoon in eager anticipation. I was seated in a relatively empty theatre, taking in the feeling of being back at the movies but soon enough the lights dimmed and my attention shifted to the red title card flashing before the screen. The Batman opens with Gotham’s mayor in his house, unknown to him that his masked soon to be murderer is looming right behind him. After visiting the crime scene, our masked vigilante rides through the streets of Gotham City contemplating whether he’s really making a difference, as Nirvana’s ‘Something In The Way’ plays in the background. With the mood now set, I knew I was likely in for a cinematic treat.
The Batman depicts a modern Gotham in the age of social media. Alongside detective Gordon (Jeffrey Wright), our hero is investigating a series of grizzly murders commited by the Riddler (Paul Dano) who appears to be targeting Gotham’s high profile citizens. Evoking an atmosphere similar to that of David Fincher’s Se7en and Zodiac, The Batman almost feels like a comic book movie paying homage to the crime thriller and noir genres. It’s gritty, it’s dark, and it brings Batman back to his detective roots. In this film, Batman is known as “Vengeance” around Gotham but “Vengeance” is much more than a nickname. It’s a message proclaiming that those who commit wrongdoings must pay for their actions. “Vengeance” symbolizes fear, anger, power, and almost becomes synonymous with justice. As the corruption in Gotham is slowly exposed, our caped crusader is forced to confront what being a symbol of “Vengeance” represents. In exploring this idea, Matt Reeves has managed to make a thought provoking superhero movie that questions both morality and privilege.
Robert Pattinson’s portrayal of Bruce Wayne/Batman is a unique one that stands out from previous film versions of the character. Bruce is quite isolated from the rest of Gotham. Reclused and really only ever interacting with his family butler Alfred Pennyworth (Andy Serkis), he definitely prefers it this way. The Batman drops the billionaire playboy image Bruce Wayne is known for (seen in Christian Bale’s portrayal in Christopher’s Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy and also Michael Keaton’s in the Tim Burton Batman films) and considering the tone of this film, the decision makes much sense. There is obvious pain and trauma that this version of Bruce Wayne is still dealing with from the death of his parents as a child. This brooding characterization of Bruce Wayne fits the darker mood of the film. We really only ever get a glimpse of Bruce Wayne in this film. For the majority of the runtime, he is donning the batsuit and focusing all his energy in ridding Gotham of its criminals. Even with this, it can be seen that Bruce prefers to hide behind Batman. The “Vengeance” persona he’s adopted offers him an outlet for his anger and his guilt; a persona which he believes gives him purpose. Besides his friendship with Alfred and partnership with Gordon, Batman’s next meaningful relationship is the one he strikes up with Selina Kyle (Zoë Kravitz). The chemistry between Batman and Selina is immediately electric. Both are characters that have faced hurt and both consider themselves to be lone wolves. It is perhaps due to their shared experiences that he allows himself to be vulnerable with her at times. Robert Pattinson truly shines in this role and I do hope we get to see more of his Bruce Wayne side in future sequels because it’s an interesting take on the character and one worth exploring further.
Apart from the story, the technical feats of the film are a marvel and only further highlight the fact that The Batman truly is a character-driven film. The film’s score composed by Michael Giacchino is impeccable. Each character’s theme (specifically the Batman’s) manages to capture their persona perfectly. Furthermore, the score heightens the tension, perfectly setting the tone of the film. If I had to pick out my favourite aspect of this film, the score would probably take the number one spot. The Batman also features breathtaking cinematography that definitely ranks above previous comic book movies. The use of colours such as the vibrant neon red of the club lights is atmospheric. The action sequences, which are shot in longer takes compared to traditional action scenes in film, feel more immersive from the viewer’s perspective. All in all, the imagery along with the score works in further bringing the Batman to life. Take this upside down shot of the Batman approaching the Penguin (Colin Farrell) after a gripping car chase. Everything about this scene, from the way it was shot to the chilling score booming in the background, works to create a powerful (almost threatening) image of Batman or even more fitting—“Vengeance.”
As of now, The Batman has grossed over $600 million worldwide. With the success of The Batman, fans are excited to see what’s next in store for the Matt Reeves’ Batverse. For those interested, a limited series focusing on the Penguin (starring Colin Farrell) is in the works and will be released on HBO Max. While The Batman itself will be available to stream on HBO Max on April 19, I highly recommend catching this one in theatres if you can.