The Batman is a 2022 superhero film based on the iconic DC Comics character Batman. Produced by DC Films, 6th & Idaho, and Dylan Clark Productions, and set for distribution by Warner Bros. Pictures, it is a reboot of the Batman film franchise. The film is directed by Matt Reeves, who wrote the screenplay with Peter Craig based on the characters from Bob Kane. Reeves, the man who brought us Cloverfield (2008), Let Me In (2010), Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014), and War for the Planet of the Apes (2017), has been quoted as saying this will be the scariest Batman film yet, and that it could even be considered a horror movie in many ways.

When the Riddler, a sadistic serial killer, begins murdering key political figures in Gotham, Batman is forced to investigate the city's hidden corruption and question his family's involvement.

The cast includes Robert Pattinson as Bruce Wayne / Batman, alongside Zoë Kravitz, Paul Dano, Jeffrey Wright, John Turturro, Peter Sarsgaard, Andy Serkis, and Colin Farrell.

Ben Affleck, who portrayed Batman in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU), was set to direct, produce, co-write, and star in The Batman in 2014, but in 2017 he chose not to write or direct due to his dissatisfaction with the script. Reeves was hired to take over and reworked Affleck's story to focus on a younger Batman. He sought to emphasize the detective side of the character to a greater extent than previous Batman films and was inspired by the comic books "Year One" (1987), The Long Halloween (1996–1997), and "Ego" (2000). The story is said to be a gritty detective story, described in many ways as a crime thriller with a dark overtone. Two sequels are planned, and two spin-off television series are also in development for HBO Max.

The Batman is set to make its official debut in theaters on March 4th, courtesy of DC Comics and Warner Bros. Pictures.

THE GOOD

I consider myself to be a huge fan of most superhero content, movies and shows included. I’m not a comic book guy so I guess you could say I’m not hardcore in that sense. So for that reason, you won’t catch me criticizing a storyline in one of these superhero films or shows just because they stray from the original stories. As we all know, Marvel has been sticking it to DC Comics as of late, in large part thanks to the Avengers films, as well as the stand-alone Spider-Man movies since Tom Holland started wearing red spandex. But, as far as DC is concerned, Batman is another story altogether. Speaking of DC content, I’m also currently obsessed with the James Gunn HBO Max series Peacemaker starring John Cena, but that is a story for another day.

Batman first made an appearance on-screen in 1943 thanks to late actor Lewis Wilson, followed by Robert Lowery in 1949, and Adam West in 1966. After a 17-year hiatus, Michael Keaton stepped into the role as Batman from 1989 to 1992, in the capable hands of the talented director Tim Burton. Three years later in 1995, Val Kilmer took a crack at the role, with the legendary actor George Clooney throwing his hat into the ring in 1997. I realize most of this background may seem like pointless babbling, but it also may be interesting to those who want to learn more about the origin of Batman.

I graciously offer this history lesson for one reason, and one reason alone, so that I can talk about my guy Christopher Nolan. Nolan is undeniably one of the most talented directors working today, and his decision to give Christian Bale an opportunity to lead the way was just perfect. Batman Begins (2005), The Dark Knight (2008), and The Dark Knight Rises (2012) were without question the best versions of Batman, hands down. Nolan’s Batman was dark, gritty, and hard-hitting in every way. I mean, this is a character who witnessed his parents getting brutally murdered as a kid, and decides it is up to him to clean up the city of Gotham. He is a vigilante hero fueled by anger and disdain for those who prey on the weak and innocent. This brings me to the latest deep dive into Gotham City from director Matt Reeves, with actor Robert Pattinson stepping into the role as Bruce Wayne for the very first time. Needless to say, expectations couldn’t be any higher, especially after the epic trailers for the film.

With all that said, I of course had to see The Batman at the early release Fan First Premiere showing at my local IMAX theater, but was it worth the massive amount of hype?! Keep reading to find out!

You know that feeling when sky-high expectations come to fruition? It’s a great feeling, right? Yeah, well that basically sums up The Batman for me. I was beyond ready as I sat down in my powered recliner staring at that massive IMAX screen, and the next 3-hours were worth the price of admission, and then some. From the opening scene, I could tell this was going to be a different sort of Batman movie, and I mean that in the best way possible. From the camera work to the emphasis placed on the soundtrack/score, right down to the cinematography, Matt Reeves’ vision quickly took hold as Gotham city came to life. Once we were officially introduced to the imposing new and improved Batman, I was basically giddy in my seat.

As the Dark Knight made quick work of the cities hoodlums, I just wanted to clap after each brutal punch. It was nothing short of fantastic. From a badass-looking suit to an intense gaze sure to intimidate the most hardened criminals, Batman looked the part. The movie itself also has a rough around the edges feel to it, never seeming to be very bright which is fitting. Plus, people seem to forget that Batman is very much a detective with an eye for details, and this movie reminds us of that element of his character.

The story is undoubtedly a driving force for The Batman, as it should be. I talked a little bit about the cinematic history of the character earlier in the review, but the fact of the matter is he has been portrayed in a bunch of different ways. When you sit down and really think about the origin of the character of Bruce Wayne/Batman, the story itself is rooted in trauma and heartbreak. This is ultimately a kid who witnessed the senseless murder of his parents. I mean sure, the Wayne family was incredibly wealthy and his father, Thomas Wayne, was a prominent political figure, but it is still tragic. So I ask, why would we be surprised that the story would be dark and gritty? Well, we shouldn’t be because, at the end of the day, the legacy of Bruce Wayne/Batman is dark and gritty.

He didn’t join the fight against crime and corruption in the city of Gotham just to feel like he was making a difference, although that is certainly part of it. He did it as his way of giving some sense of worth to his existence, being more than just the lost soul he seems to be deep down. Matt Reeves made it clear that he wanted to add layers of depth to this character well beyond anything we have seen in the past. Every little detail matters, for example, Batman has eye black around his eyes underneath the mask to help conceal his identity, but in prior films when he removed his mask it was always gone. Reeves thought changing that would be a small thing that would make a big difference and I love little details like that. At one point during the film, and I promise this is not a spoiler, Batman removes his mask and has this eye black running down his face and I swear he reminded me of Brandon Lee in The Crow. Such a powerful image. That is just one of the many nuanced details that make The Batman so unique and really put it in a league of its own.

One specific scene at the beginning of the film hit me like a ton of bricks emotionally and had me entirely invested in this new Batman and his quest for vengeance right away. I don’t want to give anything away so I will speak vaguely, but this was such a powerful moment in the film that connects Batman to exactly why he puts on the mask in the first place. It exposes all of the pain and anger that he has built up over twenty years in a matter of 30 seconds. It was honestly surreal as I felt like this scene stood still somehow. The Nirvana song “Something In The Way” is playing during this specific scene, and this song in many ways serves as the heart of the soundtrack for The Batman. I can’t wait to see this movie again just so I can experience this moment one more time.

The Batman is very much a true character study of the iconic caped crusader. It’s a deep dive into the psychological toll the tragedy in his life has had on him. As Batman, he is confident, resourceful, and dangerous. As Bruce Wayne, he is reserved, antisocial, and honestly just sad. In many ways, he thrives as his alter ego, and is a shell of himself when he takes off the mask. It’s not like he took the time to sit down with a therapist and work through his issues, instead, he buried that pain deep down inside and took on the moniker of vengeance, which is of course fitting for many reasons.

I personally loved his character because it felt raw and real, he was never anything but himself. He refused to put on a show to please others, even if he was viewed as a freak or an outsider. After watching The Batman, I feel like I understand the character better than I ever have before, and that is really saying something. I also really liked how they took the approach of having Bruce Wayne/Batman narrate the story, which for me added another intimate layer to the film.

I keep hearing people talk about the fact that there was no way Robert Pattinson could play Batman, mostly because all people would see is his role as Edward Cullen in the popular Twilight franchise. But if you can’t separate an actor from a franchise that ended a decade ago, that sounds a little bit like a YOU problem. I mean really, Pattinson has been in a ton since that franchise concluded, most recently starring in Christopher Nolan’s Tenet, as well as the Netflix thriller The Devil All the Time, just to name a few projects.

But, a movie of his that seems to fly under the radar is the 2017 crime thriller Good Time, where Pattinson stars alongside Benny Safdie and Jennifer Jason Leigh. For me, this was the defining career moment for Pattinson, where he proved he can play that gritty and complex role that not every actor is capable of taking on. Interestingly enough, director Matt Reeves was quoted as saying that film (Good Time) was a big reason why Pattinson quickly became the frontrunner for him to get the role of Batman in his mind. He said that his character in Good Time fit the mold as far as what he was looking for, which was an actor who can play a character filled with rage and violence but is also able to display a wide range of emotions. He also felt like Pattinson had that Kurt Cobain feel to him, meaning he looked like a rockstar but beneath it all he kept to himself.

Pattinson’s Batman is everything we want the character to be; physically imposing, extremely angry, and relentless. He is bigger than everyone else, and he is stronger than everyone else. During the more intense fight scenes, the bad guys aren’t attacking one at a time, they are coming all at once with weapons and guns, but Batman holds his own. During several scenes, he makes his appearance slowly as he comes out of the shadows, starting with viewers hearing only his footsteps until he enters the frame which is some incredible foreshadowing. The film also has it raining during a number of scenes, and they take full advantage of those scenes as well by having Batman walk with such force through the pounding rain. I guarantee you that if you had any reservations about Pattinson prior to watching The Batman, you will be singing a different tune once you reach the end credits.

Zoë Kravitz is the best Selina Kyle/Catwoman to date, and that is just not up for debate. Kravitz, who is currently dating my man Channing Tatum, is an amazing actress in general, and I applaud her for her willingness to take on roles in indie films, as well as big-time blockbusters like The Batman. One of which is the just-released HBO Max original film Kimi, which Andrew actually did a review for which you can find here, and the 2014 drama thriller Good Kill, alongside Ethan Hawke. It’s crazy to think her acting career started in 2007 with the romantic comedy No Reservations, and the intense crime drama The Brave One, starring Jodie Foster.

The fact that Kravitz began her career with two films that are such opposite genres is fitting for someone who has developed into such a versatile actress. Her portrayal of Catwoman is just perfection, from the look to the way she carries herself, she added so much value to the film. I also really liked how she fit into the story, and appreciated the fact that compared to prior actresses who took on this role, she was much more even-keeled and down to earth in terms of her personality. Also, the chemistry she had with Pattinson was massive. Even though she is crucial to the story, her character arch never feels overpowering and works more in tandem with the events unfolding in the film. Reeves actually said one reason why he chose Kravitz was because she already had an established relationship with Pattinson and knew they would work well together, and to say the two shared some very intense scenes would be an understatement.

Colin Farrell is unrecognizable in his role as Oswald Cobblepot/The Penguin. Unless you went into the movie knowing it was him, there’s zero chance you’d piece it together on your own. From the “fat suit” to everything they did with his face, he looks and sounds like a different person. I read that in between scenes Reeves would have conversations with Farrell, who would stay in full character during the interactions, which didn’t surprise me at all considering Farrell’s pedigree and commitment as an actor. I just can’t say enough amazing things about his performance. It just came across so natural and easy for him. I really enjoyed his character, and one particular scene towards the end of the film was extra enjoyable (no spoilers, of course). John Turturro was also amazing in his role as Carmine Falcone, which really should surprise nobody. The man who once starred as Jesus Quintana in the cult classic The Big Lebowski, is a hell of an actor which is why he plays a very important role in The Batman. I can’t picture anyone else playing this role better, and he just plays off the other characters extremely well.

Paul Dano is next level intense in his role as The Riddler, and like Turturro, I honestly can’t think of anyone who would have played that role better. As an actor Dano is extremely underrated, but after the world sees him in this role, he will become a household name. Dano actually has quite an impressive filmography despite being just known for supporting roles. He did have a gut wrenching performance in the film Prisoners. One of his films that always stands out for me is the very unique comedy drama Swiss Army Man, where he stars alongside Daniel Radcliffe. It will likely be one of the weirdest movies you have ever seen, but it is very much worth a watch. It is available On-Demand and is streaming on Showtime. Back on track, Dano is exceptional in his role as The Riddler and he couldn’t have been more believable. The dark elements of the film start with him, and boy oh boy does he deliver. I don’t want to put my foot in my mouth or anything, but his character is the only thing that comes close to Heath Ledger’s Joker in The Dark Knight. Reeves actually said that his character was partly inspired by the infamous serial killer Zodiac.

It is crazy think that this is the first time The Riddler and the Penguin have been on-screen in a live-action capacity in quite some time, with the Riddler last appearing in Batman Forever (1995) in the form of Jim Carrey, and the Penguin last appearing in Batman Returns (1992) in the form of Danny DeVito.

I am a big fan of actor Jeffrey Wright, who was amazing in the HBO series Westworld. In The Batman he takes on the pivotal role of James Gordon, Batman’s ally and direct link to the Gotham Police Department. I felt like Wright was really good in this role and was able to effectively translate how important of a character Gordon is to the story. His chemistry with Pattinson was great, and you really felt like he was one of the only people that believed in what Batman was doing and understood him which was why he entrusted him on cases. I did read that Reeves had considered Mahershala Ali for the role of James Gordon, and although admittedly I may have preferred him just in terms of his overall abilities as an actor, Wright is still an asset to this film.

Andy Serkis was also awesome as usual. This guy is great in pretty much any role he takes on, whether it’s the Planet of the Apes films, or his incredible portrayal of Ulysses Klaue in Avengers: Age of Ultron and Black Panther. He is just a stud. In The Batman he plays Bruce Wayne/Batman’s trusted confidant Alfred Pennyworth, who has been by his side since the beginning. After the murder of his parents, Alfred stepped in as Wayne’s only remaining family, meaning he also served as a reminder of everything he lost. He has been a constant in all of the Batman films proving his value and the simple fact that you cannot have a Batman film without his character. I was pleased that they chose Serkis, who is one of the more youthful actors to play Alfred which will be helpful going forward with what should be another couple of films at least.

Director Matt Reeves is truly talented and deserves his credit for the success of The Batman. He was very clear in terms of the direction he wanted to take things from the outset, from who he wanted to cast right down the overall feel and inspiration for the film, and everything seemed to fit together seamlessly. You never once felt like he was borrowing ideas from Christopher Nolan or anyone else for that matter. His willingness to essentially start from scratch as far as how he viewed Batman was risky, to say the least and the fact that the studio gave him so much creative control speaks to their trust in him. Prior to Ben Affleck leaving the project as he was originally going to direct and star in the film, he had a script that the studio liked and Reeves himself admitted to liking it as well, comparing it to the feel of a James Bond-style of Batman film. But when it was all said and done, Reeves decided he wanted to go with more of a noir detective-driven story. He made this movie his own, and he should be damn proud of the final product.

On the technical side of things, oh man where do I start?! Seriously, they went all out with this movie. I will try and touch on each element the best I can without digging too deep into either one, but there’s lots of meat on this bone, let me just say that.

What stood out to me right from the jump was the camera work, and the in-your-face feel that you will be treated with throughout the film. During one particular sequence that in many ways sets the tone for the film, we are following James Gordon along a hallway seemingly to a crime scene as each police officer he passes looks back at us in a POV (point of view) that made the audience feel like the focal point. We soon realize that the camera is from the view of Batman who immediately draws the attention of every person he crosses paths with. During various scenes when Batman was on his motorcycle the camera was either attached to the side or attached to his helmet, giving viewers the feel of actually being on that motorcycle with him.

The cinematography was exceptional and was without a doubt a centerpiece for this film. Greig Fraser, who recently worked on Dune (check out our full review here), is a true talent. Right from the beginning I was in awe of the noir look and feel, and just the great shots of Batman and the city of Gotham. As with many other Batman films, he is constantly meeting James Gordon when he sees the bat signal in the sky, and they made great use of this aspect in the film. They meet at a spot high above the city with the camera looking over Gotham with Batman and Gordon sharing the frame, and each time I just wanted to take in the look and feel of the scene. Later in the film, we get a few similar shots with Batman and Catwoman, and they are equally as amazing. For me, The Batman is in another galaxy when it comes to cinematography compared to other Batman films, and I honestly feel like it deserves a few nominations.

I am a sucker for a good soundtrack and score, and The Batman brings down the house when it comes to that. Composer Michael Giacchino is credited with the music as he teams up with Danny Elfman, Hans Zimmer, and Lorne Balfe as composers. All three have composed for both the Batman franchise and the Mission: Impossible franchise, and all but Balfe have composed Spider-Man films as well. The action scenes and the more emotional scenes are fueled by the soundtrack and the score, and it just felt like such a crucial element of the film from start to finish. You just can’t achieve that truly gritty feel with a combination of effective soundtrack and score, and similar to the cinematography, I feel like a few nominations are in order.

THE BAD

I’ll be honest with you, this is a difficult film to criticize. Before going to see The Batman, I was back and forth on whether or not I should watch some of the previous films to get me ready. Personally, I am a huge fan of the Christopher Nolan trilogy, consisting of Batman Begins, The Dark Knight, and The Dark Knight Rises, with The Dark Knight easily being my favorite (RIP Heath Ledger aka The Joker). But I came to the conclusion that I should just hold off as it was likely that director Matt Reeves was going with something unique in more ways than one, and I was right.

Some people may criticize certain elements of the film out of preference, most notably the shift from Playboy Bruce Wayne to more of the introverted reclusive version, but for me, it fit the overall feel of the film. This is sort of a weird thing to complain about, but Batman is such a beast in his suit but when he is Bruce Wayne, he just seems a bit frail in comparison. I mean they tried their best to make him look muscular with some creative camera work, but at the end of the day, that is just not Robert Pattinson. Again a small knock on the film itself, but still worth mentioning. In conclusion, this is a new take on Batman showing a willingness to take some chances, and I applaud Matt Reeves for doing just that as he really knocked it out of the park.

THE VERDICT

A dark and gritty noir detective story that brings director Matt Reeves’ unique vision and propensity for character-driven storytelling to life, The Batman is an immersive and raw look at the caped crusader now known as vengeance, and you will never look at him the same way again. Batman has never been so vulnerable yet so dangerous, so resourceful yet so reliant on his allies and those close to him. The world that is created within The Batman feels real to the point where you can’t help but be invested in everything that happens. This movie just has it all, a great story, incredible acting, stellar cinematography, and a soundtrack and score that brings it all together. Another very important takeaway I should also mention is this does not feel like a 3-hour movie, as everything flows exactly the way it is supposed to. I honestly never thought I would say that a director not named Christopher Nolan made a superior Batman film, but that is exactly what happened.

The energy at the sold-out IMAX theater for the exclusive Fan First screening was infectious, and the entire theater clapping as soon as the screen went black was absolutely the icing on the cake. I will be seeing The Batman again in the next few days and will see it in theaters at least three times when it’s all said and done. Robert Pattinson signed on to do three movies, so fingers crossed we get our trilogy and I personally cannot wait for what’s to come next. Be sure to see The Batman for yourself as soon as possible so that you can feel as giddy as I do.