Nolan’s Batman Trilogy at the Cinema!

I did something special last month in terms of a cinema trip and all in one day, back to back I got to experience one of my favourite trilogies on the big screen again. This was the first time I had watched them one after the other on the big screen though and it was enjoyable as ever (well maybe changing the trailers before each one might have been a little bit better but never mind).

This was part of Nolan season at Cineworld, which I eagerly anticipated attending, as it’s something I have always wanted to do. I have seen all of his films on the big screen before, and I must add that I made it a point to view each of them on their release dates to fully immerse myself in the cinematic experience. Among these, The Dark Knight stands out as one of my most seen films, given its profound impact on both the superhero genre and cinema as a whole. The excitement of seeing it on the big screen again was palpable, especially since it marked the first film I could experience in a theater after the long hiatus caused by the pandemic. When Odeon reopened first in the UK, it felt like a monumental moment, not just for me, but for all film enthusiasts longing for the magic of the silver screen. The atmosphere that day was charged with nostalgia and anticipation, bringing together a community of fans who shared a common love for Nolan’s visionary storytelling and the unparalleled thrill of cinema.

Each time I watch Batman Begins, I appreciate it even more, often forgetting just how much of a powerful start to the trilogy it is. The film masterfully delves into the origins of Bruce Wayne, showcasing his transformation from a traumatized child into the iconic superhero we all know. The compelling story arc, coupled with breathtaking cinematography and a haunting score, pulls me deeper into Gotham’s dark and gritty atmosphere. Furthermore, the performances, especially that of Christian Bale as Batman and Liam Neeson as Ra’s al Ghul, elevate the narrative to new heights, making each viewing a fresh experience that reinforces my admiration for this cinematic gem. With Michael Caine bringing the bloody edge to Alfred!

I don’t even feel as though I have any words left for Heath Ledger in The Dark Knight though, honestly it is one of the greatest performances of all time. It still makes me sad that he never got to experience the success of this role. The film overall is exceptional and we are given some truly amazing scenes. I truly adored my Chicago trip in 2019 and being able to work out where certain scenes were filmed.

I do still feel that The Dark Knight Rises is the weakest in the trilogy, which is such a shame as I have a deep appreciation for Anne Hathaway’s portrayal of Selina Kyle/Catwoman, whose character brought a fresh and compelling dimension to the film. However, despite these strengths, I found that Bane’s character just doesn’t work all that well for me; his motivations seem somewhat underdeveloped and his menacing presence, while impressive, lacks the nuance that could have made him a truly memorable antagonist.

Are you still a fan of Nolan’s Batman?