Now two reasons why it could be the greatest comic book film ever...
The Ending
To get things straight, this film cannot stand without the predecessors there to anchor the character development and build the Batman mantle in to something we want saving and protecting just as much Bruce Wayne does. It needs the trilogy to make this one of the best films ever; however the fact that this outstrips its predecessors cant be ignored and one of the reasons for that is its immensely satisfying conclusion. Yes there is a good hour and a half of intense action, twists and emotional build up that comes before this conclusion but how this rounds off one of the most intense film series ever crafted is not so much the best part of the film or the trilogy; but a hallmark as to everything that had been so good about it. The emotion that flows through the audience as Bruce appears to give the ultimate sacrifice in the protection of justice, freedom and good as well as the inspirational effects this has on John Blake and the people of Gotham is a thorough conclusion to the ideas that Nolan has been oozing through his Batman franchise. That it is possible to inspire; dont give in to fear and never lose hope. You dont just see this in the characters but you believe this yourself; Nolan has expertly crafted a way for you to believe in this symbol and through that you have the ultimate connection. Which is what makes the conclusion of Bruce Wayne escaping the city that caused him so much pain, Alfred having the dreams he wanted for Bruce realised and a man as inspired by the Batman as we are taking up his mantle one of the most complete and satisfying endings ever made. Also, small vanity push. Check out
this theory I posted some time ago...