I let this linger in the draft pile for too long (what else is new). The outrage from the initial announcement has decreased, and Affleck’s image was somewhat bolstered by recent media at SDCC this summer, strengthening my argument below.
Often on very different planes of existence, both comic book nerds and mainstream Batman fans likely can sympathize with their feelings once news came out that Ben Affleck (of Daredevil and Gigli infamy) was tapped as the new Dark Knight.
Yahoo! Movies has been running a bracket-based tournament for the title of greatest summer blockbuster of all time. Naturally, the final match-up is between two juggernauts of film: Star Wars vs The Dark Knight. They have bested other summer classics like Independence Day, Jaws, Shrek, and Jurassic Park.
I think that both movie series certainly have their merits. Star Wars changed everything Hollywood knew about special effects and the so-called ‘limits’ of film, ushering the development of new technologies in the cinematic industry.
The Dark Knight on the other hand, completely revamped what a superhero movie should be. Gone are the days of campy, over-the-top cartoon heroes, and now we have a gritty, painful, and most importantly human concept of what a superhero really is. Never before had that occurred – superheros were regarded as perfect and flawless!
What I think it really boils down to is that this is a competition between two generations, two innovative directors, and two diverse fan bases. I think it’s a hard decision, but I think Star Wars wins just because it’s more established. I think that The Dark Knight trilogy will age like a fine wine and end up being held in the same esteem as Star Wars, but it is too soon in most people’s opinions.
Who did I vote for? The Dark Knight. I really loved that series, and I am not a huge comic fan. Star Wars was too easy because I am already a sucker for Sci-Fi. I believe in Harvey Dent!
Star Wars of course is running away with the lead, but there is still time to cast your vote. Today is the final day they will count! (5/31/2013)
http://movies.yahoo.com/news/-star-wars–vs—the-dark-knight—vote-to-decide-the-greatest-summer-movie-ever-213347697.html
A big thanks to Emil for this review!
What it lacks in storytelling, it attempts to cover with massive explosions and crashes and even more garish Han Zimmer scores. Nolan has a penchant for these. The Dark Knight Rises (2012) plot seems strikingly similar to Batman Begins (2005) although far more muddled and the delivery far too long and tedious throughout. The characters are vastly less well developed; in particular, Bane’s ‘badness’ – played by Tom Hardy – pales in comparison to those prior more sinister evildoers in the earlier Nolan films. Christian Bale, who returns as the Dark Knight, lacks the direct emotional cords that tied him – and us – to both Batman Begins (2005) and The Dark Knight (2008): no stakes for the courageous man, only obstacles for the dispassionate superhero. Obvious omissions in the story are commonplace – laughable in parts – for example, at one point Gotham Police are trapped for months in the city’s sewer system, yet when freed look as if they are leaving for work on a routine morning: bathed, shaved, and dressed as immaculately (hats included) as when they were trapped months earlier! Add numerous similar omissions, a lack of dark stealthiness the prior two films epitomized – which incidentally, is glaringly absent, and the unforgivably commercial ending and Nolan has done what his antagonists’ could not. Do Gotham and your fellow moviegoers a favor: wait until you can rent it for a $1, or better yet – wait to catch it free online – else, such dark nights will indeed rise again.
2 out of 5
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I stumbled across an interesting article today that provides some intriguing insight on the highly anticipated conclusion to the amazing and bleak trilogy on the Dark Knight by Christopher Nolan.
The premise:
While I am a little disappointed that the Riddler didn’t make an appearance in the final film (I still am holding out some semblance of hope/despair), some digging by determined fans shows some interesting clues that another character from the series could make a previously unannounced appearance: Batman’s faithful sidekick, Robin!
If the rumors prove true, will Nolan’s interpretation of Robin become a memorable addition to the series? Early talk has it that Anne Hathaway as Catwoman is excellent, so Robin will certainly have to make an impression if he shows up. (Cat got your tongue?)
After seeing this revelation, I am excited to potentially see Nolan’s dark twist on Robin. I think the evidence is at least a very interesting coincidence, but it sure seems like a safe bet to me. Read the article and form your own opinion, but I am not embarrassed to make the claim here: Robin will appear in the Dark Knight Rises.
If I am lucky, The Riddler will get a mention (doubtful, but hey, a man can dream…)