On March 2, 2022, the ninth film dedicated to the character as mythical as fictitious, Batman, was released. Matt Reeves’ The Batman, however, is not just a simple remake of previous works. Let’s discover why The Batman is so different from other films.
The Batman: A Superhero in a Dark Thriller
With Robert Pattinson in the leading role, The Batman stands out from previous films through the atmosphere into which it immerses the viewer. From the very first seconds, it’s clear that the film is deliberately realistic. Very far from Superman’s optimism, The Batman is dark and akin to the thriller genre. Matt Reeves’ stated intention was to return to the origins of the comic. It’s a successful gamble for a film that renews the story from a more mature and profound angle.
Batman: A Hero in Turmoil
While the story revolves around a series of murders targeted against Gotham’s elite, the Caped Crusader is not presented as a messianic hero. Batman’s confrontation with his adversaries is much more subtle than usual.
Like his enemies, the Dark Knight is ambivalent and tormented by his own moral dilemmas. Like Harley Quinn or Two-Face, he must confront his true identity. Thus, the stereotype of the savior set out to fight villains is swept away with a flick of the wrist.
In the film, Batman is in his early days. He hasn’t yet mastered his art. We discover him torn between good and evil, prey to contradictory feelings. The viewer might even be surprised to disapprove of the hero’s attitude on several occasions. The character’s psychology has been shaped with care and precision. Moreover, his evolution is radically different from what was presented in previous films.
A Scenario Freed from Clichés
There’s no need to wait for the famous scene of the Wayne parents’ murder. Matt Reeves didn’t want to propose his own version of this key moment in the hero’s story. The parental figure is, however, explored in detail, including the most unsettling aspects. The discovery of his parents’ dark side shakes Batman and forces him to question all his beliefs. An unexpected and daring angle, never before presented in films and series dedicated to Batman.
Gotham: Foul Seat of Corruption
This new film also presents a very politicized Batman. The story revolves around the fight against corruption. Gotham is a reflection of America and combines the most despicable aspects of New York and Chicago. The city is corrupt to its foundations. The social and political satire unfolded in the film reaches its climax with Batman’s realization. He understands that the image he had of his city is flawed from the beginning.
A film with stunning aesthetics
To complete such a surprising and original picture, the quality of the sets is breathtaking. The city of Gotham was recreated in prestigious London studios. The visuals are sophisticated, and the work on the lighting is absolutely astonishing. Enough to particularly highlight a work that will leave no one indifferent.
— Matt Reeves (@mattreevesLA) February 1, 2022
A scenario freed from clichés, a tormented hero, an atmosphere as dark as it is realistic, and sets with remarkable aesthetics are all elements that differentiate this new entry. In the very first week of its release in France, the film had already recorded over a million admissions. It is the year’s biggest opening. A success largely owed to its originality.
