Batman Begins

Somebody was asking about this movie recently, and Randy even did a post about it recently. I guess it’s my turn to weigh in on Batman Begins. First of all, let me say that I’m not a big fan of superhero movies. I know, I know. Your opinion of me might have gone down a notch just now. But it’s true. I don’t know if it’s that I’ve seen so many of them (and so many of them have been coming out lately). Or maybe it’s the whole “comic book” mentality. Never having been a big comic book reader (the smell of the ink probably has a little to do with that), I don’t have the childhood experience to relate to. I tell you all of this to give you an idea of what was going on in my head when I walked in the theater to see the film. To put it short, I was not excited, and perhaps even mildly annoyed.

My doubts were put to rest in the first 15 minutes. By halfway through the film, I was loving it. What set this apart from other movies in the genre was the obvious effort that was put forth in creating a compelling story, and then following through with some great special effects and even (gasp!) some good acting. The most compelling effect involved hallucinogenic drugs. Whenever a character is given the drug, the picture gets cloudy and starts to shake. You really have to see it to get it, but it’s really intense and interesting. I’ve never seen anything like it (On a side note, because of the intensity of these scenes, I wouldn’t recommend taking young children to see this). The main culprits of this good acting I refer to would be one Liam Neeson and a certain Morgan Freeman. Both of these guys are in form as only they can, and this lends an air of credibility so often lacking in this type of film.

The film wasn’t without it’s cheesy side. Whenever Batman is in his outfit, the dialogue reverts to monotony and schoolyard humor. I can’t help but roll my eyes whenever the line “I’m Batman.” is uttered. And there’s a chase scene combined with a “save the girl” segment that crosses over to the bad place. But overall, this is a great movie. My hope in the superhero genre, and the Batman series in particular, has been restored. If you’re looking for a fun summer flick, look no further. This is it.

Comments

[Steven]

I agree with you on Batman Begins. I saw the movie a couple of weeks ago and enjoyed it very much. The underlying themes of justice and overcoming fear were interesting.

[Pamster]

ps. My movie dollars went to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory this weekend...and it was money well spent. I loved it!

[Pamster]

I vowed never to see another Batman movie. My son was almost 3 and my mother took him to one of the earlier ones. Then all he would talk about was Batman. So she made him a costume for Halloween. He wore that thing for 3 months straight. He wouldn't take it off! He was Batman. If you called him to dinner, he wouldn't come. Ok, yes he would...if you said "Batman, it's time for dinner". He outgrew it finally...

[Angie]

I'm the same way....not too into the whole comic book character movie thing. I'm also not really into the batman thing, but I've heard this is a good flick. Might see it when it is released to video. Too busy now to go see it on the big screen.