The Dark Knight

Like its predecessor Batman Begins, The Dark Knight was another smash-hit in the batman series. In fact, I believe Dark Knight is not only the best batman film but also one of my personal favorite films. This week’s assigned chapters from the textbook outline many reasons this film was so highly acclaimed and instantly beloved by audiences. Editing, color, sound, music, acting, and directing all have substantial impact on the success or failure of a film. In this case, each of these elements was executed to near-perfection!

The editing of The Dark Knight, in my opinion, is not quite as noticeable, or plays as substantial a role, as in some other films. The editing I noticed in this film seemed mainly used to speed ahead in time, cutting past less interesting details of the story. However, the lack of some editing elements, like slow-motion in fight scenes, seemed intentional to add to the films realism and grittiness. One editing element worth noting was the back-and-forth scenes of Harvey and Rachel held captive in respective warehouses. The switching back and forth added to the shock of the explosion causing Rachel’s death by confusing the audience.

The Dark Knight’s visual look followed in the footsteps of its predecessor, Batman Begins. The film’s use of lighting and color as a symbol depict a very dark, serious, and foreboding theme. The character of the Joker is the one bright dash of color in this otherwise dark colored film. Interestingly, under the surface, this is by far the darkest character in the film and the darkest-ever portrayal of the Joker. Aside from keeping with the traditional look and colors of the Joker, I believe the color brought to the film by this character draws the audience’s attention to him even more so.

The use of sound in this film does not seem too unique or different than most action films. The musical score of this film, I believe, is entirely orchestral music. I believe this adequately adds to the mood of the film’s scenes without taking attention away from the visual elements. I do like the film’s use of voice-over narration, particularly at the end where batman is running away while Commissioner Gordon talks to his son.

There’s not much to say about the acting in this film that hasn’t already been said many times. Clearly Heath Ledger, in his final role, exceeded all expectations. He truly “became” the Joker and created a character that will forever haunt the minds of audiences. One sour note regarding the acting in this film was Christian Bale’s voice as batman. I personally didn’t think much of it, but many viewers have told me that it was too unrealistic and forced; it took-away from the character.

I am choosing to write my director paper about Christopher Nolan. In addition to this film Nolan has directed many other acclaimed films such as Inception, Batman Begins, The Prestige, and Memento. I truly enjoy the concept of style, cinematography, and structure that Nolan infuses into all his films. Additionally, Nolan’s films are blessed with incredible acting talent. It seems clear that, when surrounded by great talent, Nolan is the type of director that allows the actors some freedom in expressing their interpretation of their character. Commenting on working with actors who have distinctively different styles, Nolan states, “The best actors instinctively feel out what the other actors need, and they just accommodate it." (Imdb.com, 2010). I look forward to further study of Chris Nolan in my director paper.