4. It Wasnt in 3-D
OK, point three got a little bit lengthy there, so this one will try and be a little briefer. The significance of TDK and TDKR (Batman Begins was released a little before it all kicked off) not being shot or released in 3-D is hugely encouraging for all those sick of having inflated prices and poorly retro-fitted 3-D effects shoved down their throats because it shows just how unnecessary it is. Electing to shoot extended sequences in IMAX was a choice Nolan was no doubt able to make due to Batman Begins success, but its one that could have positive ramifications moving forward. By shooting in IMAX and digitally, Nolan and his cinematographer Wally Pfister were able to achieve a look and feel that arguably wouldnt have been achievable shooting in 3-D. Whilst 3-D often has a tendency to feel gimmicky and distracting, with TDK and TDKR they were able to achieve a crystal clear, sweeping image of Gotham City, doing it justice in a way only IMAX can. The epic feel to Nolans trilogy (Inception could also be included in this) is so far unique when compared to other comic book movies with TDK receiving an Oscar nomination for its cinematography that year. It also proves that audiences are at best apathetic towards the use of 3-D with TDK currently lying in 12th place and TDKR in 29th in terms of all time worldwide box office. Sceptics suggest that 3-D is just a moneymaking, anti-piracy tool, yet with Nolans insistence on not shooting TDKR in 3-D on artistic ground, it could be the case that both the sceptics and creatives alike get their way in the long run. With Nolan staying away and legendary directors like Ridley Scott and Martin Scorsese returning to 2-D for their next projects after dabbling with the 3-D format, the future for 3-D may not be so rosy after all.