‘The Batman’: Refreshing take on old characters

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Promotional movie poster for “The Batman.”

Once again, one of the most iconic heroes returned to the screen in “The Batman,” which currently holds the title of current highest grossing film of 2022 (over $350 million so far).

With a character on the screen for more than 50 years, each “Batman” film has to have a sense of individuality, while still following who the character truly is. “The Batman” stays true to what a Batman movie should be with classic characters, action and superhero elements, while adding modern ideas from today’s world.

The film keeps viewers engaged and caters to a large fan demographic. For both long-time and new DC fans, or even those just there to see their favorite Twilight and Kimi stars on screen, the movie is well worth it.

While being a superhero film, the movie leans towards the crime drama, “film noir” genre-wise. Following the ins and outs of the Riddler’s clues, drug busts, dark pasts, and other complexities of Gotham CIty, the movie brings a lot to the table. The Riddler aims his killer clues to expose corruption and lies in the city, and leads Batman to follow his clues and learn the truth about his past. The Riddler has a chokehold over the whole city, and he sees The Batman as an “inspiration.”

The music, including works by composers Michael Giacchin and Danny Elfman along with the band, Nirvana, fits the overall dark theme and suspense throughout the film.

The identities and emotions of the characters are well expressed, and viewers won’t have trouble understanding who everyone is. The characters are classic, but they have grown to fit modern times.

The modernized Batman and Riddler hero-villain complex is a key concept of the film. As characters who have been on screens for decades, this version took a classic hero and villain, and modernized them and created an excellent crime drama along the way.
Not only did they modernize the overall story, but the characters get refreshing looks as well.The Riddler doesn’t look like the average intimidating villain, but he truly has a hold on all powerful people in Gotham. The Batman is not the average hero either, as he isn’t adored by police and is frowned upon for being involved in investigations.

The story of Catwoman, Selina Kyle, is a great example of an independent and well-constructed character, as she proves to be smart and independent. She uncovers some of the most vital information needed and even saves Batman when he is probably most in need.

Overall, the structure, twists, and overall story lead to an overall great film with a great cast. The ending of the more than 3-hour movie followed many unexpected turns, and it sets up possible sequels in the city where there always seems to be “something in the way.”