Review: The Batman (2022)

A Dark and Gritty Reinvention of Gotham’s Hero

Directed by Matt Reeves, The Batman (2022) reinvents the iconic hero with a noir-driven narrative and a focus on Gotham’s seedy underbelly. Starring Robert Pattinson as Bruce Wayne/Batman, the film takes a bold, grounded approach that emphasizes mystery and psychological depth over traditional superhero spectacle. With stunning cinematography, a chilling villain, and a haunting score, The Batman delivers a gripping crime thriller that stands apart from its predecessors.

Plot Overview

Set in Batman’s second year as Gotham’s vigilante, the story follows Bruce Wayne as he investigates a series of murders orchestrated by the Riddler (Paul Dano), a deranged criminal targeting the city’s elite. Each crime reveals layers of corruption that implicate Gotham’s most powerful figures, forcing Bruce to confront not only the city’s darkness but his family’s complicity in its troubled past.

Alongside his ally Lieutenant James Gordon (Jeffrey Wright) and the enigmatic Selina Kyle/Catwoman (Zoë Kravitz), Batman races to uncover the Riddler’s plan while grappling with his own identity and role as Gotham’s protector.

The Good: A Bold New Vision

1. Robert Pattinson’s Batman:
Pattinson’s portrayal of Bruce Wayne/Batman is a revelation. His brooding intensity and raw vulnerability bring a fresh dimension to the character. This version of Bruce is still finding his footing, more obsessed detective than polished hero. His quieter, introspective performance perfectly matches the film’s noir tone.

2. Paul Dano’s Riddler:
Dano delivers a terrifying performance as the Riddler, reinventing the character as a Zodiac-inspired serial killer. His eerie demeanor and cryptic messages make him one of the most memorable villains in recent comic book cinema. The Riddler’s twisted ideology adds layers to his character, blurring the lines between vigilante and villain.

3. Noir Aesthetic and Tone:
Matt Reeves leans heavily into the noir genre, crafting a dark and atmospheric Gotham City that feels alive with corruption and decay. From dimly lit streets to rain-soaked rooftops, the city itself becomes a character. The film’s tone is somber and unrelenting, evoking a sense of dread that mirrors Batman’s internal struggle.

4. Supporting Cast:

• Zoë Kravitz shines as Selina Kyle/Catwoman, delivering a performance that balances strength, cunning, and vulnerability. Her chemistry with Pattinson adds an emotional layer to the story.
• Jeffrey Wright as Jim Gordon is the moral compass of the film, portraying the character with grounded authenticity.
• Colin Farrell’s unrecognizable turn as the Penguin is both menacing and surprisingly humorous, hinting at the character’s potential for future installments.

5. Michael Giacchino’s Score:
The haunting, minimalist score by Giacchino is a standout, with Batman’s theme becoming an integral part of the film’s atmosphere. It underscores the tension and amplifies the emotional beats, blending seamlessly with the movie’s visuals.

The Weaknesses: Pacing and Familiarity

1. Length and Pacing:
At nearly three hours, The Batman occasionally struggles with pacing. The film’s deliberate, slow-burn approach, while effective for its mystery-driven narrative, can feel drawn out, particularly in the second act.

2. Familiar Tropes:
While the film offers a fresh take on Batman, it occasionally leans on familiar tropes, such as Bruce Wayne’s guilt over his parents’ death and Gotham’s endemic corruption. While these elements are integral to the character, they may feel redundant to audiences well-versed in Batman lore.

Themes and Psychological Depth

The Batman explores themes of vengeance, corruption, and redemption. Bruce’s journey is as much about understanding his role in Gotham as it is about stopping the Riddler. The film challenges the notion of Batman as a symbol of fear, suggesting that he must become a beacon of hope instead.

The psychological depth of the characters is another highlight. Batman’s struggle with his dual identity, Selina’s search for justice, and the Riddler’s twisted motivations all contribute to a layered narrative.

Cinematography and Direction

Greig Fraser’s cinematography is breathtaking, capturing Gotham’s dark beauty with striking compositions and a muted color palette. The use of shadows and light underscores the film’s noir aesthetic, while dynamic camera work heightens the tension during action sequences.

Matt Reeves’ direction is meticulous, blending intense action with quiet, character-driven moments. The Batmobile chase, a standout sequence, is a masterclass in tension and visual storytelling, perfectly encapsulating the film’s balance of spectacle and substance.

Action and Set Pieces

The action in The Batman is grounded and visceral, emphasizing Batman’s raw, unrefined fighting style. Unlike previous iterations, this Batman is not invincible, often relying on his intellect as much as his physicality.

The film’s set pieces are memorable without feeling overblown. Highlights include the aforementioned Batmobile chase and the climactic showdown, which combines high stakes with intimate character moments.

Standout Performances

• Robert Pattinson: His portrayal of Batman is arguably one of the most nuanced in the character’s cinematic history. He brings an intensity that conveys Batman’s obsession and humanity.
• Paul Dano: As the Riddler, Dano is chilling and unpredictable, creating a villain who feels disturbingly real.
• Zoë Kravitz: Her Selina Kyle is layered and compelling, with a personal arc that adds emotional depth to the story.
• Jeffrey Wright: Wright’s Gordon is an ideal partner for Batman, sharing a dynamic built on mutual respect and trust.

Final Thoughts

The Batman (2022) is a bold, ambitious reinvention of the Dark Knight that prioritizes atmosphere, character, and storytelling over traditional superhero spectacle. While its pacing and familiar elements may hinder it slightly, the film’s noir-inspired vision, stellar performances, and emotional depth more than compensate.

For fans of detective stories and grounded superhero films, The Batman offers a fresh perspective on an iconic character. It’s a reminder that even in Gotham’s darkest corners, hope can still emerge.

Rating: 8.5/10

The Batman is not just a superhero movie; it’s a haunting, thought-provoking journey into the psyche of Gotham’s vigilante and the city he protects.