The biggest mistake anyone could make about The Dark Knight is thinking that it is the definitive Batman movie. It's the best, there should be no debate there, but definitive? It's a Chirstopher Nolan film, an excellent crime picture that happens to star Batman. And yes, I'm aware that's one of the most common statements regarding the film, but it doesn't make it any less true; the fact they could reboot the character less than four years after Bale hung up the cape and cowl is testament to the character's versatility. Nowhere is this better seen than with Heath Ledger's Joker, an absorbing performance that for the first time shows the character's brimming psychosis (it's the only acting Oscar win for a superhero movie), and yet one that doesn't draw a line under the Joker. Not only is Jared Leto playing the Clown Prince of Crime later this year, but he's doing so without the pressures of trying to top Ledger because what Heath did was so unique and different (the main thing he seems to have permanently nailed into all characterisations is the voice). Batman doesn't work in only one way. The core character idea is one that is applicable to variety of approaches, be that different directing styles, time periods or genres. And isn't that incredible? What's your favourite Batman or Superman movie? Where would you place Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice. Share your thoughts down in the comments.
