'The Batman' Review: A Detective Thriller for the Caped Crusader
The long awaited standalone Batman film has finally arrived and all the questions surrounding its success or cinematic flop were about to be put to bed. And, of course, the main talking point—as with every new cast choice—was whether Robert Pattinson would be up to the role of filling Michael Keaton and Christian Bale’s shoes.
The former Twilight teen has changed his persona completely in recent years, and to the surprise of many he has nailed the dark and mysterious role as Batman. Additionally bringing the rich billionaire playboy Bruce Wayne to life in a way that hasn’t been seen before. In an Interview with Total Film, Pattison said, in regards to the character of Bruce Wayne: "He’s got this enormous trauma inside him, and he’s built this intricate, psychological mechanism to handle it. It’s like a really, really, really bad self-therapy, which has ended up with him being Batman at the end, as self-help.”
Fans were very sceptical of the film’s presence--with a runtime of nearly three hours, people were concerned it would drag on. However, there was intrigue by making the Riddler the main antagonist; the way he gets not only the characters but the audience to figure out his sickly riddles holds investment throughout. Your mind is tricked and messed with as the story progresses.
A film that feels more like a detective thriller, it takes a completely different spin from other superhero flicks, as this one pays homage to the character of Batman as we used to know him—as the glorified detective from the comics and video games, rather than the bad-guy-punching superhero dwelling in the shadows.
Matt Reeves, the director, wanted to move away from clichéd origin films, throwing Batman straight into his established character within 15 minutes of the movie—already he’s beating thugs to a bloody pulp after they attack an innocent civilian. Instead, Reeves said this film was an origin story for the Riddler, Catwoman and, most importantly, The Penguin, who is set to have his own HBO max series in the future.
To not have this film tied in with the DC Extended Universe may sound disappointing for many, but there’s also a strong argument that we’ve been provided a setup for a fresh and fantastic series with Pattinson carrying on as our Batman. Allowing for better storytelling to spearhead the forefront of production rather than fanservice and meaningless action.
Sequel talk is already in the throes of discussion amongst fans. An overwhelming surprise among audiences on the focus and flow of the story, as well as the decision to make Riddler the central villain, has left a massive impression and lead to ongoing questions on a possible continuation.
The Batman is always followed by massive expectations, which in itself has burned fans before. From experience it’s been better to be cautious about anything Batman is featured in since the universally acclaimed hit, The Dark Knight in 2008.
The film is a dark and mysterious adventure that leaves DC fans wanting more based on a grand setup of a refreshing take on this character. Due to audience reception and critical success, it’s difficult to imagine that Robert Pattinson wouldn’t continue the role going forward. If the creators continue down that straight and focused path, the future of DC cinema could be bright.
Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★