The Dark Knight is Christopher Nolan's magnum opus and a gripping, unforgettable thrill ride from start to finish.
The acting performances in this film are truly as great as they come. Heath Ledgers infamous take on the Joker is undoubtedly one of the most captivating, disturbing, and iconic villain performances in film history. All of the other main players in the film (especially Batman, Harvey Dent, and Commissioner Gordon) are also acted remarkably well, due in part to the immense strength of the film's cast.
The action and stunt-work in this film are utterly spectacular. Few other films have ever managed to keep me on the edge of my seat this much during chases, and fight scenes. There are a number of reasons for this. Christopher Nolan clearly put a lot of work into the stunts in this film and it shows. Every jaw dropping explosion, or nail biting vehicle chase feels as if it is really happening and that you are experiencing it in real time with the characters. The music is undoubtedly some of the best I have ever heard in a film. The all time great film composer Hans Zimmer once again proves to be a master of his craft here, delivering a thoroughly blood pumping and epic musical score that enhances the action ten fold.
The storytelling is some of the best in the history of comic book filmmaking. It is dark, unforgettable, and exceptionally intricate. The film tackles very mature themes that are far beyond most comic book movies, such as the contrast between order and chaos, as well as whether superheroes are truly heroes or simply vigilantes. The characters are also ALL masterfully well written. Many of the characters, such as Harvey Dent, Commissioner Gordon, and Batman, embark on some of the greatest and most thought provoking character arcs I have ever seen. The richly detailed world building surrounding Gotham city also helps to make the film feel remarkably immersive (especially for a superhero movie).
Overall the Dark Knight is without a doubt one of the greatest films of the last century and an essential film experience, even for those who are not fans of the superhero genre. It is legendary for a reason
