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Excellent post.
by DrAndonuts
Jun 30th, 2008
07:44:51 AM
Awesome.
by Finding Forrestal
Jun 30th, 2008
07:46:04 AM
I can't wait.
I can't wait
by ZoeFan
Jun 30th, 2008
07:51:49 AM
These 2 directors are MASTERS of their craft.
Great reviews
by hallmitchell
Jun 30th, 2008
07:52:43 AM
I'm so glad the injustice that was T.L.JOnes' potrayal of Two Face has been rectified. 2008 has so far been a great year for film. This for me is close to matching 1994.
I GOT IMAX TIX FOR TDK
by DURANGO66
Jun 30th, 2008
07:54:16 AM
city walk Hollywood
great review
by zapano
Jun 30th, 2008
07:56:57 AM
the dark knight should be something special - this could be the one
I'm so psyched to see both of these
by just pillow talk
Jun 30th, 2008
07:57:55 AM
And I managed to skip all the spoilers to boot. I have seen enough of both of these, no need to see (or read) anymore than I need to.
Can't Wait
by Migwit
Jun 30th, 2008
08:01:25 AM
Drew - DARK KNIGHT fight scenes...
by Mosquito March
Jun 30th, 2008
08:01:45 AM
Are they shot/edited more clearly? Can you tell what's actually happening in this one? And the suite - is it less clunky than the one in the first film?
WHAT A REVIEW!!!
by THE TRUE PINBACK
Jun 30th, 2008
08:03:05 AM
Kudos to Moriarty for writing what is undeniably one of the best, most well-thought-out reviews ever posted-not only on this site, but ever! I cannot wait to see these two films!!!
suite, suit
by Mosquito March
Jun 30th, 2008
08:03:55 AM
Wall-E
by Gatsbys West Egg Omlet
Jun 30th, 2008
08:07:23 AM
was amazing. between that and Iron Man i'm satisfied with my summer movies as of now. HBII and Bats are just icing on my cookie.
Jesus, it took me about 30 miutes to read that...
by Marxeffect
Jun 30th, 2008
08:07:33 AM
but fuck me it was worth it! Nice reviews Mori! I do have one question though: Is Maggie G any good in this? I dont know... I just never thought she would fit into the "Batman Universe"
Let's see...
by quantize
Jun 30th, 2008
08:08:13 AM
loved Hellboy, but Batman Begins was a monster snoozefest..Nolan remains iffy to me.
Great Review....CAN NOT WAIT
by tile_mcgillus
Jun 30th, 2008
08:09:51 AM
for either of these films. These year is so fucking awesome.
Question about IMAX
by Hawaiian Organ Donor
Jun 30th, 2008
08:10:08 AM
Aren't IMAX movies limited to be around 2 hours? And from what I hear, TDK clocks in around 2:20 so that would be quite a bit of movie they're shaving off. It seems to me that would really hurt the movie.
quality
by NedNederlander
Jun 30th, 2008
08:10:25 AM
It's eloquent, passionate reviews like that that remind me why i love this site. thanks Mori
Dear M,
by Gd00
Jun 30th, 2008
08:10:30 AM
That was an AWESOME article. I enjoyed every single letter out of every word. Great writing, and thanks for sharing your thoughts. And by the powers, aren't the times ripes for movies of the likes of these. Bring them on!
Bring it all on!
by FILMFUNK
Jun 30th, 2008
08:10:58 AM
My favourite comic book movie is Robocop because although not based on an actual strip it does everything right with no short cuts or censorship. It has an origins plot rooted in reality but embellished with future Tech and greedy bastard badguys. It has stuff you've never seen before in Robocop and Ed 209 but also More gore and quoteable lines than a dozen Arny films and it doesn't pander to anyone! it just is what it is and if it's too much for you then bitches leave. But most of all it's called fucking ROBO cop! like these new movies BAT man! HELL boy!

Shouldn't work but with the correct director and involvement of real talent it most certainly does!

Moriarty
by Diamond Mike Inferno
Jun 30th, 2008
08:14:30 AM
I have to say that was one of the best reviews I have ever read anywhere. Thanks for writing it for us.
HawaiianOrganDonor...
by TheRealMoriarty
Jun 30th, 2008
08:15:12 AM
... not anymore. That was an early IMAX limitation, long since solved. The version you see at an IMAX venue is the absolute truest version of the film to what Chris Nolan intended.
Mori, how about some spoiler indication?
by the_scream
Jun 30th, 2008
08:16:46 AM
Like a big word that says "Spoilers" so people actually know where to stop reading. Shame because it's a good review and I would have liked to have read it all.
You've managed to send my hype for TDK
by The Guy Who Slept Through Everything.
Jun 30th, 2008
08:18:50 AM
Through the fucking roof, believe me, it will not get ruined. I'd turn down sex with Scarlett Johnanson to see this this at the Midnihgt show.
The_Scream
by TheRealMoriarty
Jun 30th, 2008
08:19:02 AM
I made sure to put a warning in before I offered up any significant spoilers. It's safe.
oh please the month comic book movies came of age was in may wit
by JeanLuc Dickhard
Jun 30th, 2008
08:19:59 AM
hellboy im sure will be fun and under rated.... dark night im sure will be over rated, they had their chance the last movie sucked the second bale became batman... the last arc of the movie sucked dick ... and now with the unfourtunate death of an actor, people will be all over this movie's jock .... if the movie is good then good for them and i hope they continue their good luck .... but Iron Man is the movie that raised the bar and set the standard for comic book movie perffection ....
My choice wat not to read the Hellboy portions
by Diagnostic
Jun 30th, 2008
08:21:52 AM
Saved me some time.
Iron Man was just an appetizer...
by Elemeno Pee
Jun 30th, 2008
08:25:02 AM
I'm ready for a real meal now.
I'll pass on HELLBOY II
by BobParr
Jun 30th, 2008
08:26:12 AM
I like Guillermo but I absolutely hated HELLBOY. A bunch of squid monsters??!!
JeanLuc Dickhard
by the_scream
Jun 30th, 2008
08:27:42 AM
Ah, the lonely dissenting voice. How predictable & also very sad for you to be one of the few who just can't get excited about this film.
Outstanding review
by mefrog
Jun 30th, 2008
08:28:29 AM
I didn't read most of it, because I absolutley refuse to have anything spoiled for me for HELLBOY or Dark Knight (I've only seen one trailer for Dark Knight, I want everything to be fresh when I walk into my IMAX screening). But man, I could feel the passion through my computer. SHIT I'm pumped.
damn this is going to be awesome
by Gungan Slayer
Jun 30th, 2008
08:31:14 AM
One thing is for sure
by Silverglade
Jun 30th, 2008
08:31:51 AM
I love it when Mori writes reviews. Great work!!
Great job Drew
by chrth
Jun 30th, 2008
08:32:56 AM
Probably the best double-review since Neil Cumpston did The Passion of the Christ/Dawn(?) of the Dead in the same review.
Fantastic.
by Nordling
Jun 30th, 2008
08:36:12 AM
Excelent work, Mori.
For those avoiding the article due to spoilers
by chrth
Jun 30th, 2008
08:36:45 AM
Mori tells you when the spoilers are coming
I've been waiting all weekend for Moriarty's Walle review.
by greenstyle92
Jun 30th, 2008
08:39:51 AM
I am dumbfounded that neither Harry nor Moriarty has weighed in with an official review of that film. I guess advanced screenings of Hellboy II and The Dark Knight got you sidetracked?
All of these gushing reviews lately
by Hawaiian Organ Donor
Jun 30th, 2008
08:41:42 AM
Have me feeling a tad guilty for only having been out to the theater once this summer (for Indy 4 no less). If there was an IMAX close by that showed movies other than those of the nature kind, I would actually go see TDK but alas, I guess it'll be a November release for me.

It would be interesting to know if Nolan had to use some careful editing to obtain the PG-13 rating or if what is on the screen was as far as he was willing to go.

GOD DAMN IT
by dogstardude
Jun 30th, 2008
08:43:44 AM
I really wish I hadn't read the spoilers for TDK. FUCK!
the_scream, dissenting voices.
by greenstyle92
Jun 30th, 2008
08:44:48 AM
AICN is just so hilarious to me. In talkbacker world, it is the in vogue thing to do to piss and shit on everything-and I do mean EVERYTHING-that comes down the pipe. But TDK was granted the "Holy Grail" status where in nobody can say shit about it without being labeled a hater or the dissenter. It's like some big game or something. in 2006, Pirates Dead Man's Chest was the one with Holy Grail status that was preserved while everything else was shit on. I'm just amazed how people are pinning hopes on one movie.

I'm wary because I think it's definitely been proven and demonstrated that Batman Begins was a lesser take on Batman. So why am I supposed believe the Sequel is SOOOO much better?
great reviews
by zom-bot.com
Jun 30th, 2008
08:46:08 AM
written like a fan of cinema withan understanding and recognition and appreciation of the deeper human issues that normal hero movies are afraid to delve too deep into. you're so right about comic heros as the modern gods of myth.If they are not treated with that seriousness, they are cartoony and pointless. excellent write ups- in no way fan-boyish, i can present this to anyone and it will honestly get them interested in both movies regardless of their interest in comics.
Greenstyle...
by TheRealMoriarty
Jun 30th, 2008
08:47:55 AM
... it'll be the next thing I post. Sorry, but I had to prioritize, and since we've run several WALL-E reviews from our major contributors, I figured these would be more urgent.
FCKING GREAT REVIEW
by Darth_Valinorean
Jun 30th, 2008
08:48:05 AM
I just printed out this review - this is what a review should be and this should be in college/school textbooks on how to write a fcking review. I did not read the entire thing (admittedly) for I don't want teh spoilers, but I have printed it so I can read it after I see the movies. GREAT JOB!
Yeah, I piss and shit too, but I'll still be there opening night
by greenstyle92
Jun 30th, 2008
08:48:39 AM
like Will Smith in I am Legend. Batman is my field, my ground zero. I've spent most of my life loving the character and studying him and what makes it tick, writing High School and College papers on the character and elements of the fiction. So, I've got to see what Nolan has done this time. Even if I have a bad feeling about it. And I don't even really get up my ass about fidelity to the source either. My favorite Batman live action movie is Batman Returns, after all...
Ah, okay Moriarty.
by greenstyle92
Jun 30th, 2008
08:50:10 AM
Sounds good. I really loved that movie but I couldn't get into any of the existing talkbacks. maybe I still won't, but I'd love to see another opinion on the film.
Greenstyle...
by TheRealMoriarty
Jun 30th, 2008
08:52:48 AM
... before this, RETURNS was my favorite, too. Have you ever read my review of RETURNS from the '90s lists here on the site?
No Jagga, it is YOUR wang that has been revealed!
by greenstyle92
Jun 30th, 2008
08:54:34 AM
I safely ignore anyone who heaps too much praise on Batman Begins. These people obviously don't really understand the Batman character or why he's important. psh, Nolan sure don't. His hardline stance against using Robin is proof of that. Robin is DEEPLY IMPORTANT and CENTRAL to Batman and his universe. Anyone who thinks that Batman is better off without Robin SIMPLY DOES NOT UNDERSTAND BATMAN. It's as simple as that.
Mori
by bod33
Jun 30th, 2008
08:54:39 AM
I did not know that Moriarty.
by greenstyle92
Jun 30th, 2008
08:57:35 AM
Interesting, I shall have to look it up. But I did not expect that you liked it. I saw some of your comments about B89 and I know you didn't really like that one and I suppose I (unfairly) assumed that meant you didn't like Returns either. Okay, I gotta look it up.

Oh shit, have I really posted that many times in the last few minutes? sorry guys, got carried away, I'll bail now or I'll seriously become a troll.
RudyRusso...
by TheRealMoriarty
Jun 30th, 2008
08:57:41 AM
... don't you have a bridge you're supposed to be under, son?
Moriarty
by bod33
Jun 30th, 2008
08:58:12 AM
Once again you have shown why you are the main man on this site and not Harry(no offense). Those reviews especially TDK were the 2 greatest reviews i have ever read. Thank you
Greenstyle
by Lost Jarv
Jun 30th, 2008
08:59:59 AM
Fine, I don't understand Batman like you do, but I'd say at the moment that you're venturing into dangerous fanboy territory here.
some people
by zom-bot.com
Jun 30th, 2008
09:01:49 AM
some people just want to watch the talkbacks burn. only they nor their comments are as clever or anarchic as the joker. you can disagree to like or not like something, but to come and post just to flame for responses..silly. why don't you go start a bar fight. oh yeah, because you are an out of shape loser that hates yourself even more than you seem to hate the world, or movies and comics that no one else really has that much of a problem with.
Link to the BATMAN RETURNS review please
by The Guy Who Slept Through Everything.
Jun 30th, 2008
09:02:31 AM
Now that's what I'm talking about!
by Mr. Nice Gaius
Jun 30th, 2008
09:04:07 AM
Excellent reviews, Moriarty. (I even managed to avoid the spoilers!).

Funny thing - I wasn't expecting your TDK review to be mingled with your take on HELLBOY II. So, I kind of had to bob n' weave through your write-up to first follow your thoughts on TDK. No offense to HELLBOY II which I do plan to see. It's just personal cinematic priorities, man!

Thanks!

Okay...
by TheRealMoriarty
Jun 30th, 2008
09:07:20 AM
... it's under the 1992 recap in this article, as a "Runners-Up" for the year. http://tinyurl.com/4axwa4 I really dig that film.
Awesome reviews
by skiprat1
Jun 30th, 2008
09:08:44 AM
...of both movies. Thanks, these are the types of reviews I can show my wife, who needs someone other than me to confirm that some superhero movies can be taken seriously (so she'll go with me to see them and not blow it off as not being a movie for grown-ups. Although I have no desire to grow up anyway).
Okay, now I'm getting a little nervous.
by Mosquito March
Jun 30th, 2008
09:09:01 AM
Why won't anybody whose seen TDK comment on the clarity of the fight cinematography? That was one of the very few major issues with BEGINS. I really want to be able to see who's hitting who, this time.
this town deserves...
by doodah
Jun 30th, 2008
09:10:26 AM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v =oSS-QtsWRWA
fuck
by Mosquito March
Jun 30th, 2008
09:10:39 AM
"who's seen..."
Mosquito March...
by TheRealMoriarty
Jun 30th, 2008
09:11:50 AM
... I didn't comment on it because it's not really an action film. It's well-staged, in my opinion, but then again, I didn't hate the work Nolan did on the first one. I think he's got more control of it all this time, but he likes the brief quick bursts of chaos in the middle of all that carefully composed elegance, so maybe you won't like these fights much more than in the original.
I cant wait to see The dark knight....
by emeraldboy
Jun 30th, 2008
09:12:05 AM
and I cant wait to see Hellboy 2.
Moriarty, YES!!!
by greenstyle92
Jun 30th, 2008
09:15:35 AM
I just read your Batman Returns review, (searched it out myself, but thanks for linking anyway.) Yes, you've picked up and articulated excellently all the great stuff about that movie! I've been trying to articulate to people for years how Penguin, Catwoman and to a lesser extent Max Shreck are all versions of Batman, but most people just look at me funny. THANK YOU! Now I have somewhere where I can point people too to give them an example of what I mean.

Okay. Anyone who gets Batman Returns has a valid opinion on Batman. I'll go into TDK with an open mind. Still not apologizing for not caring for Begins all that much, but I'll choose to believe that TDK could be better.
AAAAHHHHHGGGGGHHHH!!!!!!!!!!....
by FlickaPoo
Jun 30th, 2008
09:16:34 AM
...summer movies have been nothing but shit for years and years. This summer we have to stay home with an brand new baby girl and we miss Wall-E, Hellboy, Dark Knight, Ironman....AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHH HHHHHHHHHHHGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHH HHH!!!!!!
Lost Jarv, sorry.
by greenstyle92
Jun 30th, 2008
09:18:01 AM
I know it's real annoying when Talkbackers try to flaunt their "credentials" in other's faces to try to make themselves look smarter. And that's what I was doing, and I'm sorry about that. Other people can have different opinions on Batman than I do. guess I was just taken about by being accused of not having an informed opinion or something. Sorry about that. I really became just as big an asshole as the ones I was complaining about. Sorry guys.
So your trying to tell me
by Series7
Jun 30th, 2008
09:19:09 AM
That the truck flip in this film is going to blow the truck flips from Terminator 3, X-3 and Heroes out of the water that its so good? I don't know that crane truck flip in T3 was pretty sweet.
AAAAAAAAAAAGGGGGGGGHHHHHHH!!!!!! ...
by FlickaPoo
Jun 30th, 2008
09:20:03 AM
....it still hurts.
Flickapoo.
by greenstyle92
Jun 30th, 2008
09:20:28 AM
My deepest condolences, (but congratulations on the baby, by the way!) But hey, that is why they invented the Home Theater, isn't it? And fall isn't that far away...
I always thought the final scene in BATMAN BEGINS...
by Mr. Nice Gaius
Jun 30th, 2008
09:21:15 AM
...would form the crux of a sequel. It's such a brilliant moment; one that makes any of BB's shortcomings moot. I love the fact that it's Gordon who brings the idea of escalation to Batman's attention. You totally get the feeling that it's the one thing Wayne did not anticipate = his arrival as Batman would prompt the criminal underworld to push back in a big, big way.
Ok so
by Series7
Jun 30th, 2008
09:21:35 AM
are these Batmans based on the Frank Miller series of Batman comics? Like are they close at all, or totally different?
I wonder how canon that moment is going to be?
by greenstyle92
Jun 30th, 2008
09:24:06 AM
How much do they acknowledge the mention of Joker in the first one? hey, is the bank robbing scene actually supposed to be a depiction of the crime gordon describes at the end of the first one? I'll have to watch that movie again, (haven't watched Begins all the way through since, what, late 2006? I'll give it one more go-through to be prepped.)
greenstyle92....
by FlickaPoo
Jun 30th, 2008
09:24:18 AM
...thanks. She's a terrible sleeper and even DVD's wake her up...been trying to watch The Orphanage for three weeks now. She's great though. Stupid movies. Sigh...
Series7
by greenstyle92
Jun 30th, 2008
09:26:50 AM
There were things about Batman Begins that were very reminiscent of Year 1 and at times felt like an adaption of it. But then again, it was ultimately a different story with a fairly different take on the origin. Hmm. Okay. They are definitely drawing on Frank Miller, but not Frank Miller alone. Frank Miller is just one of the many Batman artists/writers they are pulling from to do the Nolan series. and in the end, these are Nolan Batman works, not Nolan adapting someone else's Batman works.
3 comments
by Animation
Jun 30th, 2008
09:27:04 AM
1) Great Review. I am PSYCHED UP! 2) I disagree about the Joker. His humor should never be incomprehensible. Otherwise he is just a Killer Clown. You should never laugh at his jokes when you are being affected by them, but you should always have a guilty giggle when you are SAFE. He has to be both violent AND understandably funny, but horribly frightening, to be right. 3) I also dont really have the same reason for liking Superhero movies as you do, Mori. For me it isnt an excuse to tell a story, as in the gods were used to tell stories, etc. You SHOULD tell stories with any genre suited to it, but you dont need superheroes for that. It also isnt just to see superpowered people beat each other up. Boring. For me, it is about the ramifications of the powers on the person that has them, the people in their lives, and the world. If the Super Powers weren't in it, you might as well just make it any other genre. But of course, telling stories is good. That's my feeling anyway.
TDK Fight scene
by kafka07
Jun 30th, 2008
09:29:49 AM
I've seen a fight scene from TDK and you can actually see everything that goes down this time. Batman doesn't hide so much in the shadows anymore. And even though it wasn't the most riveting fight scene I've ever seen in a movie, it was still pretty fucking cool.
Holy shit Moriarty
by The Guy Who Slept Through Everything.
Jun 30th, 2008
09:29:52 AM
I never knew many people who branched out and saw DOGFIGHT, what a great movie, glad to see it made your top 10 in 91 list. and Bravo on the BATMAN RETURNS review, Loved it and couldn't agree more, fuck Howard Stern for hating that movie when it came out.
"a studio note with feet."
by DocPazuzu
Jun 30th, 2008
09:30:17 AM
PHILBRICK LIVES!
Hey pigfucked guy...is this some sort of....
by FlickaPoo
Jun 30th, 2008
09:30:19 AM
...performance art thing or something? Like when Andy Warhol only talked like a robot for a while?...or like those cats in New York who arrange for hundreds of people to ride the subway with no pants for one day? What was the name of the guy who shot and crucified himself?...I forget. Anyway, if it's art you might need to step up your game a bit...people have already done some pretty crazy stuff. Don't listen to people like me though...you should follow your bliss...
new suit
by kafka07
Jun 30th, 2008
09:30:54 AM
oh and Bats was wearing the new suit in the fight scene I mentioned, he definitely moves faster.
Animation-there are different ways to play the Joker.
by greenstyle92
Jun 30th, 2008
09:31:48 AM
Sometimes the Joker can be played more like a "clown," sometimes he can be played more like a "comedian." This article helps to illustrate the difference: http://tinyurl.com/3sg86v
< br> In Batman: The Animated Series Joker was played more as a comedian. and, from the looks of things, he's played more like a clown in TDK. You seem to prefer the Comedian aspect, and Moriarty the clown aspect.
I can't wait for EBERT's review
by Foucault
Jun 30th, 2008
09:31:57 AM
zomg
Pumped for TDK...
by Atticus Finch
Jun 30th, 2008
09:33:16 AM
couldn't give a shit about Hellboy. Maybe I'll have my friend download that one for me.
phew.. what an edge-of-your-seat review!
by ptooey
Jun 30th, 2008
09:35:11 AM
i'm sold on both movies... spoiler or not it didn't matter.
Damn You Moriarty
by Virtual Satyr
Jun 30th, 2008
09:39:43 AM
18 days. How dare you hit me up with a review this good, one that makes my fingers and toes curl with anticipation. I'm not going to last. When Harry writes his review for TDK, I'm not reading it. Hell no. I'll go crazy.
Robin/GREAT review (so far) Moriarty
by abcdefz7
Jun 30th, 2008
09:40:05 AM
Frozone -- Robin's not in it per Nolan's preference. And I think Bale has noted that Robin would probably be about three years old in this timeframe, anyway. Moriarty -- thank you. I didn't wade into the spoilery section, but I really like the observations so far. I look forward to reading the whole review.
greenstyle-- the only man in the world who understands Batman
by The Octagoner
Jun 30th, 2008
09:42:04 AM
I've been reading Batman since I was about three, and I make my living writing fiction, and I thought Batman Begins was an excellent portrayal of the character, and it's the ONLY BATMAN FILM THAT'S ACTUALLY ABOUT BATMAN. So when you say, "It's definitely been proven and demonstrated that BB was a lesser take" I have to ask: 'proven'? PROVEN? By whom? And how? Proven in your own mind? By you? How the fuck is something so subjective 'proven' anyway? It's also telling how you say that anyone who doesn't agree with your views (about, for instance, Robin) doesn't get the character of Batman at all. I'm going to offer this alternative: YOU don't get Batman at all. And what you want him to be isn't what Batman is. Burton's Batman films were utter garbage; nonsensical jibberish that doesn't understand narrative, without the slightest characterization, only, like so many Burton movies, an extravagant visual design. So you keep writing papers "on the character and elements of fiction"; it's clearly something you can do with one thumb up your ass. And if you think any of Burton's Batman films tell good stories, you clearly don't know jack-shit about "the elements of fiction".
frozone, yes i agree...
by greenstyle92
Jun 30th, 2008
09:43:48 AM
Robin automatically revs the "dangerously close to campy" engines up when he makes an appearance. so I can understand the hesitancy there. But he's deeply important in other ways. One of the key themes of Batman is fathers and sons, (granted, the is a key theme of the whole darn genre, but anyway,) and there's more you can do when you actually make Batman into a sort of father. And it does make Batman re-evaluate his mission in key ways.

so I don't know. I like Burton even though he didn't use Robin, but he was open to the possibility and I think he would have used him in a third one. But for Nolan to say, "nope, not doing it," rubs me the wrong way.
batgirl is a baby
by zom-bot.com
Jun 30th, 2008
09:44:53 AM
if batgirl is a baby in BB, then robin (well shit- which ONE?) is either 3 or not born yet. there is no need for robin in nolan's trio because the early batman comics were robinless. hence BEGINS. but there was the kid in the narrows with fighting parents that batman gave a nightscope to, that rachel protected from zsasz(sp?) and that at the end the police said his parents were missing. THAT was your nolan robin, that's all we're going to get.
Burton's take was more of a mythical thing
by terry1978
Jun 30th, 2008
09:46:23 AM
That's the difference, and it's not any better or worse than Nolan's. His Batman is like an urban legend, something you happen to catch a glimpse of walking down the street, and just like that, gone. There have been so many interpretations of Kane's character, each of them, even the Adam West version, is accurate in some manner.
Best. Reviews. Ever.
by David Assholehoff
Jun 30th, 2008
09:49:09 AM
Wow Mori, I'm stunned at your review(s). Heart-felt and honest. I feel I enjoyed your writing here almost as much as I will enjoy the movies. I am looking forward to Hancock, even though you dissed it. Looks awesome, hope it lives up to my eternal comic-collecting expectations.
thanks mori
by darthnoodle
Jun 30th, 2008
09:50:22 AM
that was a beautifully written reivew. i wish i hadn't read the tiny lister spoiler, or the warehouse spoiler (although i already knew who died by process of elimination). it's about time this genre reached for telling contemporary stories, without being parables. i hope guillermo can fit hellboy 3 in his schedule, and nolan will definitely be back with batman 3. after those two are done, i fear we will be served far inferior products in each respective franchise. when is harry going to publish his wall-e review? i know he loved it, and he alluded to him actually writing a review. c'mon harry! i loved it. my 2nd most anticipated movie (after batman) and it left me feeling great...although i did have a strong desire to go to the gym afterwards.

by Felix_Happer
Jun 30th, 2008
09:50:44 AM

by Felix_Happer
Jun 30th, 2008
09:50:44 AM

by Felix_Happer
Jun 30th, 2008
09:50:44 AM

by Felix_Happer
Jun 30th, 2008
09:50:45 AM

by Felix_Happer
Jun 30th, 2008
09:50:45 AM

by Felix_Happer
Jun 30th, 2008
09:50:45 AM

by Felix_Happer
Jun 30th, 2008
09:50:45 AM

by Felix_Happer
Jun 30th, 2008
09:50:45 AM
Sorry.
by Felix_Happer
Jun 30th, 2008
09:51:33 AM
Don't know quite what happened there.
Moriarty - Re: Fight scenes..
by Mosquito March
Jun 30th, 2008
09:57:30 AM
I have no problem with quick-burst fight scenes. In fact, I prefer them to protracted, unrealistic fight scenes. I prefer the OK Corral shootout in WYATT EARP to the ridiculous running-in-and-out-of-building s Hollywood shit in every other Earp movie, and I think the skirmish between Qui-Gon and Darth Maul in the desert on Tattooine is more bad-ass than the big fight at the end of TPM. It's absolutely on-the-money to have a character like Batman be able to walk into a room and shut a bunch of thugs down in a quick, limited number of moves. If it took him five minutes to beat a guy, he'd be doing something wrong. BUT, there's no reason why Nolan shouldn't be able to pull back a little bit and actually let you see Batman doing what Batman does, every once in a while. If the fight choreographers are going out of their way to create a new style of fighting for these movies, and nobody can really see it, what's the point? I actually love BEGINS. I appreciate Nolan's approach to the characters and the genre, and I have a feeling TDK will more than live up to its predecessor. I'm just sick of seeing action scenes where you can't tell what's happening, especially in a case like Batman, where what he's doing is probably pretty damn cool. ***** Since I have your attention, how does the new suit hold up, compared to the suit in BEGINS? Is it less rubbery and constricting?
Octagoner, sigh
by greenstyle92
Jun 30th, 2008
09:59:03 AM
I had already apologized for my behavior, but sorry once again. But hey, you are also rendering your opinion as the definitive one, so you are basically doing the same thing I did. have a good one.
Moriarty, a question about acting.
by Kevin Holsinger
Jun 30th, 2008
10:01:17 AM
A couple of months ago, I saw a clip on the Internet of the bank scene in Dark Knight, and found myself cringing at some of the line delivery ("he really is crazy", or something like that, was...I think...one of the bad lines).

And as much as I loved the first Dark Knight trailer, when I heard Joker say, "A little fight in you. I like that.", I felt like the same problem was trying to show its face(though Ledger was kicking so much ass in that trailer that he seemed to carry the line well).

Did YOU find any problems with hammy delivery in any of the dialogue, or am I just hearing things?

And just for the record, I fully expect to love this movie, but that bank scene had me asking, "How is this possible in a Nolan movie?"

Thanks for your time.
kafka07
by Mosquito March
Jun 30th, 2008
10:02:17 AM
Thanks for your comments, man! My *only* problems with BEGINS were the suit and the fight cinematography.
admittedly stupid things in BB and TDK
by zom-bot.com
Jun 30th, 2008
10:02:59 AM
there are a few moments that made me cringe- that could and should have been edited out, and prove that light humor does not work in nolan's batman.

1) in BB, gordon's 'i gotta get me one of those'. also the whole driving the batmobile schtick, as well as 'can you drive stick?', and the black guy coming up and saying 'nice ride' or whatever.

1.5)the 'nice coat' stuff with the hobo. pointless. could have been a better way to show bruce being in touch with the poor. hell, he was trying to get rid of the coat because he thought he was going to be killed. so he could have gotten that bum killed!

2) in BB- batman wantonly running over police cars. not all the gotham police are dirty and punishable by tank death. luckily no one was hurt but we got some more cringeworthy shit one-liners from every cop involved in the chase.

3)assumedly several ton batmobile on old tiled roofs of rickety buildings.yup.

4) from TDK- the children in the car who witness batman blowing shit up in the alley. maybe this goes along with moiriarty and others talking about -split decisions by characters that jeopardize others, but this shows that batman could have easily blown up those children in the car without ever knowing as he was trying to take a shortcut. more thoughtless vehicular violence on his part, which i could have seen coming since his batpod had guns on it. i guess cardboard boxes and empty barrels just explode when hit by bullets too? i also though gotham had a poverty problem. no hobos sleeping in those alleys batman blew apart?

and this are blatant stupidities by a guy who like this version, so....

I'm going to go out on a limb here and brace...
by FlickaPoo
Jun 30th, 2008
10:03:16 AM
...myself for a thrashing. I agree with the statement above that the father/son element is important to the Batman/Robin relationship. But Robin in so very Ambiguously Gay Duo that I really prefer the Batman Beyond setup...an old cranky and scarred Bruce with the hotshot young apprentice actually taking his place...OK, whack away...I'm ready.
Great little Lister anecdote, Mori
by Mullah Omar
Jun 30th, 2008
10:03:54 AM
Other than the idea that these films were good, that's probably the other main detail I'll take from this article. Stars get plenty of attention, but I'm always impressed by the character actors who do good work and who also genuinely care about giving quality, memorable performances.
Jesus, those are two fantastic reviews
by Charlie Murphy
Jun 30th, 2008
10:05:19 AM
I have no doubt that both of these films will kick ass. It's a shame Universal is releasing Hellboy so close to Batman, though, because it's going to get massacred.
Loved Batman Beyond
by greenstyle92
Jun 30th, 2008
10:06:06 AM
And there are ways around the "Ambiguously Gay duo" elements too.
Hellboy II = Original "Star Wars"
by darthvedder81
Jun 30th, 2008
10:06:11 AM
Uh no. The first Hellboy made like 11 dollars at the box office. This will do the same. Other than uber-dorks nobody gives a rat's ass about "Hellboy."
MORI, you got soul for days
by g-ride9000
Jun 30th, 2008
10:08:41 AM
Thanks, I don't always agree with you but I ALWAYS AGREE with your passion. I bet you're great with the ladies.
I've been trying to remain calm about these movies
by Series7
Jun 30th, 2008
10:09:34 AM
Well because I have to work, and if I think about them I want to look up stuff about them. Luckily Wall-E came through in a big way, hopefully these 2 can deliever. All this talk about 9-11 and superheros and stuff, its funny when we live in a world where a majority of people are giant pussy's in life. Think of everyone you know and try to think of a time any of them ever took a big chance or risk? The world plays it way to safe, and thats mainly because of the government. I saw Jesse Ventura on Leno the other week and he was talking about how there should be a box on the ballot in November saying, None of the above. Talking about how we need to get rid of the two party system and what not, he had some decent ideas, its too bad he probably doesn't get taken seriously, or someone whos a lot smarter then him fleshes out his ideas. Every since 9-11 we've created a country of pussy's too afraid to do anything these days. Maybe I am just getting older and realizing that true lack of freedom you have, or just getting bogged down in real world life. Whatever way off topic. Hopefully these movies rule. Sounds like award season movies are going to have a lot to live up to this year, hopefully it'll turn out better then last year.
Two-Face question
by ActuallyRobin
Jun 30th, 2008
10:10:55 AM
Moriarty, Love the review, glad you liked the film. I cannot wait to see it. I have a question. Does Two-Face die, if so, is there a funeral/body? Many thanks, keep up the good work!
Batman Returns was TERRIBLE!
by batzilla
Jun 30th, 2008
10:13:54 AM
HOLY SHIT! I cannot BELIEVE any Batman fan could like that piece of shit movie! Seriously, it looked like it was shot on a high school auditorium stage for Gods sake! The whole movie was stupid. Catwomans transformation was embarrassing. The Penguin was ridiculous. The whole Max Shrek thing was dumb. And, again, the movie had this tremendous claustrophobic feel about it since it was all shot on a (very small) sound stage. The goofy henchmen flying around on motorcycles made me cringe. I tried to watch it about 6 months ago when it was on cable and it literally made me depressed. AWFUL film! I swear i'd rather watch the cheesy Batman and Robin again before ever watching Returns again. True story. I am always shocked when someone says they liked that piece of shit movie. Forever was a MUCH better film IMO. Even though it sucks in comparison to Begins. They all suck when compared to Begins. TDK is going to be so incredible!!
joker's voice
by zom-bot.com
Jun 30th, 2008
10:14:17 AM
when heath was trying to come up with a voice, he described it to nolan (in a way nolan would later recall as crazy, and not in a good way) 'like a ventriloquist- high and low at the same time'. and you hear it and it works. it dips to a low growl and up to a nasal whine even within one multisyllabled word.
I'm so sick of people bringing 9/11 into everything
by I Dunno
Jun 30th, 2008
10:15:12 AM
Christ, give it a rest already.
greenstyle
by The Octagoner
Jun 30th, 2008
10:15:59 AM
Then I too apologize for my behavior. Good on. Hope we both enjoy the movie.
Oh yeah the score
by Series7
Jun 30th, 2008
10:16:27 AM
I remember there being a lot of distaste for Begins score. I really liked it, I keep hearing it in my head. It has this grand ominous urgency to it, but its not so uplifting like the Elfman score was. Like with the Elfman score you knew Batman was going to win, with this new score there is a sense of maybe. Its kind of like a good underdog score, like he's going to give it his best shot but may ultimately fail. Begins score was one of the few scores of recent to actually stick with me after the movie. Especially when it comes to big movies, there hasn't been a good score in a while.
Great reviews Mori! How bout Hulk?
by Jonah Echo
Jun 30th, 2008
10:19:04 AM
Or did I miss your review for that(the new one of course). I really liked the way you broke down HB2 and DK, and compared both instead of individual takes and you did so without excessive spoilers. All of this makes me curious what you thought of Incredible Hulk, coming from someone who I seem to recall liking the first movie. I know you did a set visit write-up(I think that was you) but either missed your full review or it didnt show up. Any chance of getting a few thoughts bout that one?
Hellboy II ??
by batzilla
Jun 30th, 2008
10:19:10 AM
WTF? Who gives a shit about Hellboy? I can't believe it is mentioned along with TDK. TDK is an awesome set of characters in an awesome movie. Hellboy is... what? Who the fuck likes Hellboy? The first movie came and went so why does anyone give a rats ass about a sequel? I never even watched the first one. Like most of the population. Screw Hellboy. BRING ON THE DARK KNIGHT!!
The Guy Who Slept Through Everything
by Napolean Solo
Jun 30th, 2008
10:19:40 AM
I'd turn down sex with Scarlett Johnanson to see this this at the Midnight show.

But I'd call her immediately after the movie ends and give it to her hard up the Obama!
Good stuff, Maynard...er, Mori, that is!
by Zeke25:17
Jun 30th, 2008
10:20:03 AM
Always a treat to read your essays--for that's really what they are, I think, as opposed to some quick-capsule review you'd find blurting out at you from the newspaper. Harlan Ellison once wrote a column called "Harlan Ellison's Watching" that dealt mostly with reviewing films: the coolest thing was that even when he and I didn't agree, it was still entertaining. (And when we DID agree, it was pretty much right on.) I have no doubt that Dark Knight and Hellboy II will be two of my favorite films this year....Having said that, I still like WANTED, no matter what Mr. Beaky says; my God, don't let him anywhere near the new Argento film--it's about a thousand times nastier and a hundred times dumber.
Beautiful review!
by hegele
Jun 30th, 2008
10:21:39 AM
for the first time i feel like "comic book movies" can be socially relevent and cinematically enriching.
TLDR
by MightyOs
Jun 30th, 2008
10:22:17 AM
In summary: you loved them both. Right? Thought so. There was never a chance of any other opinion. On the other hand, a fairly well articulated article but it is in the wrong place.
I reiterate my loyalty to Batman Returns
by Franklin T Marmoset
Jun 30th, 2008
10:25:04 AM
Maybe this will be the last time, though.

It's purely a taste thing, but I like Tim Burton's gothic fairytale approach, I love the visual aesthetic of the film, the score is wonderful, and it's a mainstream summer film about freaks, weirdos and misfits, which just appeals to me.

I'm still curious about this new Batman film, however. Nolan's take on the comic book genre is not totally my cup of tea, but he can be relied relied on to deliver some above average stuff. Nothing yet that quite lives up to the promise of Memento, but I suppose you can't expect the man to be that good every time.

batzilla, regarding Returns--
by Zeke25:17
Jun 30th, 2008
10:25:49 AM
Right on! I think my biggest problem with the film (or second biggest, next to the absolute retarded retelling of the Penguin's origin) was the sense that not ONCE did you believe any outdoors scene was outdoors! Previously, the worst example I'd seen of that was a scene in DeVito's HOFFA where they're supposed to be walking through the woods and it looked exactly like something on a high-school auditorium stage. The ONLY almost-redeeming thing about Batman Returns is Michelle Pfeiffer, who looked amazing both in and out of the cat-suit...but then, I've had a crush on her since Married to the Mob.
any other cringers in TDK?
by zom-bot.com
Jun 30th, 2008
10:26:48 AM
besides the kids in the car, i mean?

i think the things that make those cheap lines or cheap 'funny' moments so terrible is that the rest of the film is so good, they become even more painful. i may re-edit BB on my mac and reburn a DVD just to forget them.

UnknownUser
by Series7
Jun 30th, 2008
10:31:12 AM
A lot of my family was in the service as well. I was in for three years? So whats your point? I've been a Navy Brat all my life. My roomate was in the Army for a while. Most of my friends are in the military.
Great review, Mori
by bravogolfhotel
Jun 30th, 2008
10:38:36 AM
I'd been wavering on whether to see the midnight show of TDK, not savoring the notion of stumbling out of the theater at 3 a.m. on a work night, but I'm going to do it now.
greenstyle
by Slaphappy Slim
Jun 30th, 2008
10:40:29 AM
First off, your Robin point is completely irrelevant. Nolan is documenting Batman's earliest days here. If you've studied Batman as much as you claim, you're aware of that. Now, if Nolan were to make several more Bat films and still not include Robin, you'd have a point. IMO Begins was miles above Returns. With your deep Batman scholarship, perhaps you can explain how a movie that uses such classics as "Year One", "The Man Who Fell" and "The Long Halloween" as inspiration a "lesser" take than an idiosyncratic Burton camp fest with a godawfully hammy Danny DeVito commanding an army of friggin" killer penguins?
BUT DOES NOLAN KNOW HOW TO SHOOT ACTION NOW?
by PumpyMcAss
Jun 30th, 2008
10:44:00 AM
That is seriously all I want to know. Are his fight scenes a bunch of confusion and cuts again or does he actually care about the action this time out? The action scenes are what almost killed an almost great movie last time out. Is it the same this time or not?
Daredevil and Punisher
by droog
Jun 30th, 2008
10:49:48 AM
It's kind of difficult to trust effusive praise for comic book movies from the same guy who once proclaimed that Daredevil and Punisher "got it right".
RE: Cringers and Nolan Action Sequences
by Mr. Nice Gaius
Jun 30th, 2008
10:50:02 AM
Conversely, is it because BB is such a good film that these two items (one-liners and fight scenes) are held to such high scrutiny with regards to Nolan? I find these complaints strange as there have been far worse superhero and/or action films with truly dismal one-liners and all-too close, disorienting action sequences.
How dare you put Hellboy 2 with The Dark Knight!!
by YouAreAllMyBastardChildren
Jun 30th, 2008
10:51:02 AM
The Dark Knight deserves its own damn separate review! No one gives a shit about Hellboy!
i don't mind the action 'problems'
by zom-bot.com
Jun 30th, 2008
10:51:21 AM
like said above, i'd rather see batman dispatch someone mysteriously with a quick movement and throw of a cape than a long, protracted give-and-take matrix style with some thug that goes on waaay too long, OR a shitty kung-fu fight in a bell tower involving a shoe that extends to crotch-kick (or was that returns? i forget)
2008=best big movie year
by T 1000 xp professional
Jun 30th, 2008
10:51:55 AM
so far this year has dissapointed the fans of these huge properties the least out of every other year...The case every year is that we get one great with other crappy, this year at least good with a couple great, which is unheard of from the usually shallow summers.......thank you 2008, and it just keeps giving
I cannot believe the easy pass you're giving HB2
by Gil Brooks
Jun 30th, 2008
10:55:26 AM
Just GDT is a fanboy fav, does not mean he can throw cool monsters/visuals at us, so we look past the fact that the script is horrible. I love the man, and some of his past films, but HB2 is weak in story, structure, character (yes, esp. character), etc. I do agree with you about the Prince, as he was the best drawn character in the film. But every scene with just the team plays out like a bad sitcom with monsters. I hate writing this, because I REALLY wanted to like the film. It's heartbreaking, actually. But as much as I love GDT, I can't give him a pass on this. :(
jesus.That 1st line should read
by Gil Brooks
Jun 30th, 2008
10:57:48 AM
"just because GDT..." That's what I get for typing too fast before hopping in the ol shower...
zom-bot.com
by PumpyMcAss
Jun 30th, 2008
10:59:17 AM
I wouldn't mind if it was quick and efficient as long as it was intelligible. Just look at the Bourne movies to see how that is done.
Napolean Solo
by The Guy Who Slept Through Everything.
Jun 30th, 2008
10:59:44 AM
You're goddamn right.
bourne
by zom-bot.com
Jun 30th, 2008
11:01:03 AM
true. most of those fights are in broad daylight though. but i agree- even with bourne-shaky-cam those are better. nolan's fight camera should be pulled back to show just HOW efficiently batman fights.
I'll bookmark it and read after the 17th
by Aethyrr
Jun 30th, 2008
11:06:08 AM
90s lists
by kwisatzhaderach
Jun 30th, 2008
11:07:32 AM
Can't believe you hated Point Break Mori. And where was The Rocketeer? Great summation of Die Hard 2 though, possibly the worst sequel ever made.
Devin Faraci is already talking his brand of shit
by TheLastCleric
Jun 30th, 2008
11:09:06 AM
I’ve pretty much given up on visiting CHUD because frankly, I don’t see the logic in giving hits to a site where the writers continuously talk down to their readers. Even among the preening, posturing arrogance that comprises our wonderful online microcosm, Devin Faraci is an uber cunt whose arrogance and condensation is outweighed only by his need to consistently bash those films other people like, such as Batman Begins. I went by the site today to see what his take on all the TDK gushing would be and predictably, it wasn’t pretty. Even though he hasn’t posted his full review, he made a point of writing an article to address the hype the film is generating pre-release and to place it into perspective, basically stating that it’s better than Begins but still flawed (according to him, the film is too long and Nolan can’t shoot action) and you can tell he went into TDK expecting to dislike it. Even more tacky than his hype-control ramblings was his nasty little take on Ledger’s performance, which begrudgingly stated that Ledger’s role was well done but then follows up his praise by claiming that Ledger’s dying may get him a sympathy Oscar he doesn’t deserve, a nice companion piece the article he wrote earlier this year where he bashed Ledger and jumped to some conclusions about his death while comparing him to Britney Spears. Bear in mind this is the same guy who nitpicked Batman Begins but defended Spiderman 3. Devin really is the Comic Guy from the Simpson; fat, ugly, nasty, anti-social and impossibly full of his own shit. I can’t wait to see this film succeed on all fronts, just to feed that fat, shit-eating grin a much deserved comeuppance.
if it does blow everyone away
by zom-bot.com
Jun 30th, 2008
11:12:56 AM
that will just fuel devin's justification to be the sole source of truth in a world full of idiots.
Excellent and thoughful post...
by allykatD
Jun 30th, 2008
11:15:44 AM
I love to read these insightful monologues on movies, but they're so rare, especially for "superhero movies". I appreciate the time Drew took to read it, and sure there will be people who complain (it's AICN after all), but there are those of us out here, who like insightful and intelligent movie discussion. I am looking forward to both of these movies, especially after Drew's article here.
What is with the Family Guy hate?
by TheWacoKid
Jun 30th, 2008
11:19:28 AM
Family Guy is hilarious. Granted, I don't break it down on how it is made, but damn it is funny. I'm just confused on why so many people have such a strong hatred for it. Even if it is a copy of the Simpsons, I still laugh my ass off. The Simpsons prime was about 10 years ago, and has slowly been losing steam. The movie sucked because it was basically one long episode that wasn't that funny. Family Guy is fantastic, and anyone who did not laugh at Blue Harvest has no soul.
Dark Knight Will Own Us All
by fassbinder79
Jun 30th, 2008
11:20:10 AM
I've been telling a friend of mine for weeks now that if Dark Knight is as good as it sounds its going to be Titanic for guys. Huge box office. Huge. Nolan blew me away with Prestige and BB. I'll probably be seeing this film at least 4 times in theater.
Felix_Happer - Just use the cat excuse...
by YouAreAllMyBastardChildren
Jun 30th, 2008
11:23:38 AM
If you happen to octuple post again. The ol' "Cat on the keyboard" excuse. It's so ubiquitous I think even Node uses that one.

Go see The Dark Knight, my little bastard children.

Still not convinced on Hellboy II
by Transmetropolitan
Jun 30th, 2008
11:42:54 AM
I thought Hellboy was cheesy and lame. Just because he is a good director doesn't make this a guarantee. Outside of visual beauty, even this awesome review doesn't convince me. I'll see it, but I doubt it blows me away. TDK is going to be one of the greatest nights of my life.
Good reviews, BUT...
by Kid Z
Jun 30th, 2008
11:47:51 AM
...I really hate reviews that combine two disparate films into one review. Just a thing I have, Mori, sorry.
HELLBOY ON INSIDE THE ACTORS STUDIO!!!!!
by force10
Jun 30th, 2008
11:51:24 AM
I saw a commercial with Red being interviewed by James Lipton on his show. It's awesome.
no love for Rhea?
by zom-bot.com
Jun 30th, 2008
11:55:53 AM
why couldn't brother Ron get sister Rhea a bit part as a goblin or something, seems like a natural.

Carla from Cheers gotta eat!

Tiny Lister love Mori
by zom-bot.com
Jun 30th, 2008
11:57:37 AM
wants to just talk about life choices and shit.it's actually touching and hilarious at the same time. i think that spoiler was worth it to hear the backstory about the phone number.
Fight Scenes and such
by Geekhaterssuck
Jun 30th, 2008
11:57:58 AM
I really had no problem with the fight scenes in BB. Batman as I've understood him in the beginning especially was an urban legend, striking from the shadows and disappearing again. You never knew where he was. I kind of put myself in the criminal's shoes in those fight scenes. I couldn't find him but I knew he was there because I felt the pain, and the terror. It was brillant to do it that way in my mind. Cheesy one-liners? What comic book movie hasn't had it's share? "Just the pussy I wanted to see" and "Oh my God does this mean we have to start fighting?" for all you Returns apologists. Burton vs Nolan? I prefer Nolan's vision just due to the fact it stays truer to its comic roots, Joe Chill as the killer of Thomas and Martha Wayne for example and you get a better idea of why Batman is needed in Gotham, and how he affects the public and public servants. Example the scene where Commisioner Loeb is telling the force to get the Batman. More depth, more character development, and better story that is why I prefer Nolan. I hate, hate, HATED Burton's take on the Penguin. Yes Michelle Pfeiffer made me feel all tingly in my at the time 15 year old loins, but her way of becoming Catwoman was incredibly ridiculous she's Catwoman not a hypersexed zombie. Also the Burton and the Shumacer (horrible spelling I know) films made Commisioner Gordon a joke. You want to talk about Robin being central to the Batman mythos? What about Gordon? Gary Oldman portrays the character perfectly. Ledger vs Nicholson? I reserve final judgement till when I actually see the movie but I will say the more I see Nicholson's version the less I like it. I hadn't seen many "Jack" movies before Batman but the more I see the more I just picture Jack with makeup and not the Joker himself. Ledger's take seems to be what the Joker should be. A psychopath whose twisted mind has it's own sense of humor that he feels is lost on the rest of us. No remorse, no conscience, no reedeeming values just pure hatred of everything good convinced he most show us just the "joke" whatever he considers it to be. Most of the criticisms I see for Begins I realize are personal taste but I find most of them short sighted from people with no imagination and frankly ridiculous. Robin vs No Robin. That's a tough one for me because I love the character of Robin as a symbol of hope and light compared to the darkness of the bat however The series needed to be rebooted badly and Nolan has done a masterful job at doing so. Christian Bale plays the duality of the character with brillance something sorely lacking in any other portrayal. I do hope TDK does live up to the hype and the Nolan vision continue to do the character justice.
excerpt from call between Tiny and Mori
by zom-bot.com
Jun 30th, 2008
12:04:36 PM
mori: (wakes up at 3am) H-Hullo?

tiny: I like puppies.

mori: who is this?

it's Tiny, man, y'know, the president from fifth element? you said we could talk sometime about life and shit.

m: oh yeah man- hey, it's just that..

T: yeah i like the way they smell, man. puppies.

M:yeah, yeah it's okay, I-

T:yeah man, and the bellies are are warm and fat and shit. sometimes i cry man, 'cause of puppies.

M:okay.

T:man, putting down my dog was like the hardest thing i ever had to do, more than that time i chose to die on the ferry when the joker was gonna blow the other boat up.

M: tiny, that, um, you're talking about acting in the movie, right? your part?

T:movie?

M: (click)

Mori... or Drew
by DarthBakpao
Jun 30th, 2008
12:12:58 PM
Perhaps i miss something, but lately i noticed that Mori had always ended his reviews/ articles with "Drew McWeeny, *insert location*", instead of the usual Moriarty.
Well, i'm already pig-fucked anticipating to see TDK
by DarthBakpao
Jun 30th, 2008
12:14:05 PM
WacoKid
by toadkillerdog
Jun 30th, 2008
12:20:49 PM
I like family Guy as well, it does not always hit the mark, but when it does, it soars. I think the hatred is typical fanboy association. Meaning, the South park boys hate family Guy, fanboys love South Park and lick the sweat off of its animated testicles. So, if South Park hates family Guy, then lemming fanboys must hate Family Guy too.
Fight scenes
by Falling_Gruber
Jun 30th, 2008
12:26:59 PM
If you don't mind spoilers there are a series of 12 clips on youtube - this one shows a fight quite well. Looks less claustrophobic than in BB. So excited for this film!!11one http://www.youtube.com/watch?v =pGOj3eNGELk&feat ure=related
I have not been this pumped for a movie since Phantom Menace.
by AllPowerfulWizardOfOz
Jun 30th, 2008
12:36:17 PM
I believe this time I will 100% be satisfied. Great review for both movies.
TheLastCleric
by Donny Loggins
Jun 30th, 2008
12:55:29 PM
I couldn't agree more with your post. He also goes out of his way in every Batman related article to remind us how he is "the guy who hates Batman Begins." He wears it as a badge of honor when he just comes off as a fucking pretentious douchbag.
mr_sinister: robin
by zom-bot.com
Jun 30th, 2008
12:58:11 PM
that's sorta what i've been trying to preach in all these TDK talkbacks! :D

only i don't think he'll BE robin, i just think that was nolan's nod to the possibility of robin later on, but i don't think he'll do it. it was a way to show batman has a soft spot for kids, although they mention that kid's parents are missing (dead?) after the narrows fear attacks.

Can you fanboys jerk me off...
by samuraiyao
Jun 30th, 2008
01:03:26 PM
Seriously imagine using your hands useful for a change...
Damn, Mori...
by MetalMickey
Jun 30th, 2008
01:05:09 PM
..today you are a man. With this article you've become the first online critic of your generation to cross that line & join the ranks of Siskel, Kael, & Canby. Seriously, congratulations.
This review was superior than Siskel, Kael, Canby...
by crankyoldguy
Jun 30th, 2008
01:13:40 PM
Brilliant. Passionate and analytical. Nothing the elitist likes of a New Yorker, Village Voice, etc runs will or can campare. And all the talkbackers already trying to tear the review and films down with their juvenile expletive-laced doggeral are simply children, as most of them always are.
Did Anyone Read The Chud Article By Russ Fischer...
by TroutMaskReplicant
Jun 30th, 2008
01:13:55 PM
It was about the unfounded Christian Bale in Ridley Scott's Nottingham rumour. At the end though he talks about 3:10 To Yuma and how anyone hoping for a 3:10 reunion (Russel Crowe being in Nottingham)should "pit your 3:10 To Yuma reunion fantasies on Ben Foster, and another project". Hmmmmmmm what could it mean?
Hellboy 2...heart?????
by Executor
Jun 30th, 2008
01:20:33 PM
I thought it was really lacking. Visually, amazing creatures and amazing world on par with the fantastic elements of Pans Labyrinth (brilliant movie and one of my favs of that year.) But did you really feel for Abe and the Princess like you felt for the girl in Pans Labyrinth? Did they break your heart? I don't think so.

Pacing was off, felt slow and un-plotted, the (SPOILER, but not really since you find out about 5 minutes in) whole Liz pregancy subplot and her fighting with Hellboy has absolutely no poignancy whatsoever either.

Really felt all style no substance. It did aim high, but missed the mark.

Hope the Hobbit brings out more of Pans Guillermo than Hellboy Guillermo or else we're in trouble.

ZomBot...if I may both agree and disagree
by Brians Life
Jun 30th, 2008
01:21:27 PM
...I agree that Gordon's "I gotta get me one of those" was too easy to belong in the film...but from a script that I thought was brilliant on the other hand I can forgive a few EASY laugh lines...

I don't think Bruce gave the bum the coat with thinking that people were going to be looking to KILL HIM. He was under the impression that everyone would be searching for the millionaire playboy that mysteriously vanished...also he WAS about to burn it before the bum stopped him AND he told him "be careful who see's you with that."

That said, I felt that the callback to that line was PERFECT if a bit to convenient. That bum saw Bruce Wayne at the height of the two major points in Wayne's transformation.
Nolan has said he WILL NOT DO ROBIN
by Brians Life
Jun 30th, 2008
01:23:18 PM
Was the kid in BEGINS a nod to Robin...probably.

But Nolan has said there are a few characters that "do not fit in the more realistic Batman world" he's creating...Penguin, Robin and any characters that are supernatural (Clayface, etc)
I'm with MNG.
by DocPazuzu
Jun 30th, 2008
01:23:19 PM
Never understood the complaints about one-liners or fight scenes in BB.

I kind of liked when Batman took out the thugs on the wharf. It conveyed a sense of Batman being an unstoppable physical force. I was content to let my imagination fill in the punches and kicks for me.

Folks complaining about that always struck me as being the same people who would say Alien sucks because "you can hardly see the monster cuz it's like all dark n stuff."

Gotham Knight
by oisin5199
Jun 30th, 2008
01:23:26 PM
It sucks that I'll be on vacation and away from an IMAX until the end of July, so I won't see DK until a few weeks after it comes out, but I'm determined to see HBII the night it comes out, as I'm leaving town the next day. But I wanted to say that I saw Gotham Knight at Wizard this past weekend at Chicago. It's amazing. A dark, adult animated set of works that actually deals with Batman on some deep philosophical levels, directly addressing some issues in Begins and foreshadowing stuff in DK. In style and purpose, it's kinda like the Animatrix, but better. BTW, is there any truth to the rumor that Nolan is looking to Grant Morrison's Arkham Asylum graphic novel for ideas on the 3rd film in the trilogy?
HB2:earth, air, fire, water?
by zom-bot.com
Jun 30th, 2008
01:24:16 PM
anybody else realize that?

liz=fire

abe=water

new guy in suit=air

hellboy=earth.

you'd be tempted to say hellboy is fire, but his hand is made out of stone, after all

Begins fight scenes didn't bother me
by Brians Life
Jun 30th, 2008
01:26:35 PM
Not a bit....I think I liked being IN the fight. I mean, I just recall some of the Shumacher fight scenes. I'm in no mood to see Batman do a triple somersault off a water fountain. Nolan's fights were realistic...not cartoony.

Anyone watch that Docu on the BEGINS DVD about the fight choreography...those guys that developed this fighting style in which you really never expose a limp. Everything stays tight to your body.
Robin
by HANSOLOS_CARBONITEFROZENPENIS
Jun 30th, 2008
01:31:43 PM
always fails, why not just team batman up with some other "hero" like a cameo thing. how about swamp thing
crankyoldguy
by samuraiyao
Jun 30th, 2008
01:31:44 PM
You're not referring to me as being a juvenile child are you? I can't wait for hellboy2 and TDK, it's the fanboys that get on my nerves...

by HANSOLOS_CARBONITEFROZENPENIS
Jun 30th, 2008
01:32:50 PM
LOL at ZOM-BOT
by MRJONZ72
Jun 30th, 2008
01:33:50 PM
thanks for the Rhea comment, that made me laugh. For some reason I didnt see the last part about Carla Got Eat until this just now..but though it was funnier without that part. But none the less good laugh.
HB2 needs
by HANSOLOS_CARBONITEFROZENPENIS
Jun 30th, 2008
01:34:16 PM
if that's the case with the elements then we need a kid with a monkey to be Heart, and have there powers combine... I'm surprised no one has made THAT movie yet
Executor- EXACTLY
by Gil Brooks
Jun 30th, 2008
01:53:32 PM
The film lacked heart. Not to mention all the "good guys" were motivated by greed, not the need to save the world.
I would watch Swamp Thing & Robin
by Elemeno Pee
Jun 30th, 2008
01:54:29 PM
in a heartbeat. But Keep Robin out of Nolan's trilogy. It's not going to happen.

by DeadPanWalking
Jun 30th, 2008
01:54:53 PM
Da-yum
by DeadPanWalking
Jun 30th, 2008
01:55:35 PM
That's quite a review. You should should do this sort of thing for a living. Very nice!
The ancient Greeks used gods...
by geodesigns
Jun 30th, 2008
02:02:19 PM
... and the modern Geeks use superheroes when they craft modern mythologies that resonate with the public. Geek fandom crosses over to the mainstream when a character's story is so compelling that people want to see the adventure.
No way it can
by Sithdan
Jun 30th, 2008
02:05:26 PM
outdo the magnum opus of Batman Returns, no way in HELL!!!
NO ROBIN... EVER!
by DOGSOUP
Jun 30th, 2008
02:08:47 PM
Nice review, Moriarty
by BiggusDickus
Jun 30th, 2008
02:24:35 PM
Even though your opinions, for me, were somewhat tainted for a while after your effusive praise of the truly abysmal 'Speed Racer'.

Nevertheless, I'll be there for both of these cinematic treats and your comments on TDK in Imax has convinced me to give the format another go (after feeling mightily short-changed by Beowulf - pretty, but dull). Cheers, Drew!

Is it necessary to compare these to Iron Man?
by stinkyfingerz
Jun 30th, 2008
02:25:43 PM
I may be the only person that thought Iron Man was a suck-fest for the most part. I enjoyed the first act, but the third act was sloppy, cliched, and poorly executed. There is just no way IM set the bar for comic book films. Hopefully TDK, and HB 2 will get the bad taste out of my mouth, because listerine hasn't worked at all.
Returns over Begins? Really?
by TheLastCleric
Jun 30th, 2008
02:30:21 PM
No offense, but Batman Returns is even worse than Batman '89 in terms of preserving the mythology. It's an okay film as a separate entity but it's truly a bizarre movie in so many ways, including the whole March of the Penguins with missiles climax. Burton had zero interest in crafting a film that dealt with the true mythology of Batman (In the opening action scene he kills at least two people) and his portrayal of both Catwoman and the Penguin were completely wrong. Begins may have taken a few creative liberties but for the most part it was incredibly true to the source material. That said, TDK looks to be the new standard for Comic Book Films, which is what I predicted some time back. It simply looks amazing.
Returns is a brilliant film but not necessarily...
by Cameron1
Jun 30th, 2008
02:30:23 PM
a great Batman film. Although, the way it exposes Bruce Wayne's psychology through the 3 villains is masterful and the cinematography, production design and dialogue is top-notch just left-of-centre. TDK looks like it will be the best of any of the films so far and maybe, just maybe the first truly classic superhero movie.
I'm sorry, but Nolans fights in Begins are badly shot. period
by IndustryKiller!
Jun 30th, 2008
02:33:28 PM
Any fight where you cannot distinctly tell what is happening is badly shot. I love the excuse "It's like actually being in a fight!", it's such bullshit I can only think that anyone who says it hasn't actually been in a fight. When you fight someone the world doesn't become all shaky and then you get random flashes of the body parts of yourself and the person you are fighting. Sure a fight can be confusing, but never in the respect that Nolan shows it. And anyone who says "That's what it would be like to fight Batman" well then what about that first fight in Mongolia with the other prisoners? That fight was well before Wayne becomes Batman and it still employs that terrible quick cut editing. The purpose of a fight scene is to show the visceral edge of what is happening and when you can't tell who is hitting whom and when that sensation is absolutely impossible to achieve. What you guys are suggesting Nolan shot is much closer to what Paul Greengrass ACTUALLY shot with The Bourne Ultimatum, which I think is what Nolan was going for but didn't get. in that film you have to work to keep up but it's all completely intelligible. Justifying the fight in that just sounds like hollow attempts to justify every little flaw because you want it to be perfect. Well, Batman Begins aint perfect, no matter how much you liked it.
Great review.
by Godovhellfire
Jun 30th, 2008
02:34:24 PM
A Nolanverse Robin...
by UltimaRex
Jun 30th, 2008
02:34:27 PM
Empire brought this up and I agree: A girl in her early twenties. Robin exists to cheer Batman up. To "add colour". If Nolan wants to go that way in Batman 3...
Great review.
by Godovhellfire
Jun 30th, 2008
02:34:49 PM
I had chilli for lunch.
stinkyfingerz, RE: Ironman
by TheLastCleric
Jun 30th, 2008
02:36:07 PM
I think it was a good film but as a comic character I don't find him all that interesting, personally. I think the film was solid but at the same time I think something like TDK is going to be a completely different experience which is why I don't think comparing the two will accomplish much. I do personally consider The Joker to be one of the best villains of all time however, which is why I think Ledger's final performance is going to elevate TDK beyond so many other films in the genre. We'll see come July 18th.
RE: Here's something to think about by Agent Johnson
by Geekhaterssuck
Jun 30th, 2008
02:38:28 PM
Interesting point on Robin and being closer to the comics. However Robin has not been in every single of Batman yes he's be an integral part just like Alfred and Gordon however they are plenty of good true to the comic stories that can be told on the silver screen without the Boy Wonder. I am by no means a Robin hater but I think the Nolan movies would be better without the character. With the exception of Begins most of the focus of the Batman movies has really not been on Batman. I think that there are plenty of good movies to be made without "Robin Begins." Just my opinion of course but I don't think the character is needed in this series.
zom-bot.com
by Damage_Inc
Jun 30th, 2008
02:39:19 PM
Earth, air, fire, water? Good call, I never thought of that. BTW, the puppy post was the best one today. Ha.
Speaking of ancient
by FlickaPoo
Jun 30th, 2008
02:39:32 PM
Whoa Nevermind, that clip of a fight posted above
by IndustryKiller!
Jun 30th, 2008
02:41:04 PM
Was fantastic. Not a single bit of quick cut bullshit. If Nolan has fixed this, because it looks like he fixed everything else about Begins thus far, then this movie may, in fact, bring us to the proverbial Holy land.
Industrykiller
by Geekhaterssuck
Jun 30th, 2008
02:41:12 PM
You are entitled to your opinion of course but I still say the way the fight scenes in Begins were done were just fine. Use a little imagination.
IndustryKiller!
by TheLastCleric
Jun 30th, 2008
02:41:54 PM
I didn't care for the way the fights were shot in Begins either, but they were shot as intended and I respect what Nolan was trying to do. Also, not all the fights were shot like that in Begins, just the fights where he was trying to convey Batman's speed and stealth. I don't think the action in BB was bad, just uneven at times.
try tht again. Speaking of ancient Greek gods...
by FlickaPoo
Jun 30th, 2008
02:43:52 PM
...any self respecting ancient Greek Batman would have had at least one well toned Robin at his beck and call. In fact he would probably have several...just in case the first one got tired...or had a headache...if you know what I mean....
I'd agree with that IndustryKiller...
by Cameron1
Jun 30th, 2008
02:43:56 PM
It's true that Greengrass' fight scenes are completely intelligible just fast moving whereas Nolan's are not intelligible and just as fast. However I'm (and I'm in the clear minority on this I know) not particularly bothered about the confusing fight scenes in Begins, it was everything else I liked. I think TDK will be more satisfying on a visceral level than Begins but I'm not going to be too disappointed if the violence isn't clearly delineated.
I think Vern actually said it best in his Indy 4 review
by IndustryKiller!
Jun 30th, 2008
02:50:50 PM
He talked about the absolute sainthood Batman begins has reached, and on the subject of the action held therein he said (I'm paraphrasing from memory cause I can't find it) "Batman Begins is a movie about a guy in a costume jumping from building to building fighting crime and there isn't a single classic scene of him doing just that" Now I, and I'm pretty sure Vern, knows that its not JUST about fighting, but that element (man in a costume fighting crime) is really why we love it so much, and he's right and it's sad that we don't get better scenes of that happening. Now it really looks like The Dark Knight is gonna remedy that and I'm as excited as all of you, so take that as you will.
As for the beatification of Begins, well...
by Cameron1
Jun 30th, 2008
02:56:12 PM
I don't worship it,it's a cool Batman movie peppered with quite a few flaws. I think after Batman and Robin any Batman film that took itself seriously was bound to be embraced wholeheartedly by many people.
Well, Vern missed something then...
by TheLastCleric
Jun 30th, 2008
02:56:38 PM
That scene at the docks when Batman shows up and starts snatching guys one by one is classic Batman, as is that scene where he dangles that fat, crooked cop by his leg. However, I do agree that the camera needs to pull back and show us more of the fight. Bale has got the physical ability so why not let him display it? That said, I'm willing to concede that the action in BB was the weakest element, though in my estimation far better than most "action films" regardless.
TheLastCleric
by RowdyRoddyStriper
Jun 30th, 2008
03:04:03 PM
Fights were shot that way to show Batman's stealth? Okay, so why was the fight in the prison yard in the beginning shot the same exact way? Yeah, exactly.
One of the best reviews I have ever read...
by cameron1975willi
Jun 30th, 2008
03:04:49 PM
...Nice work Moriaty. I guess these films inspired you to bring your 'A' game?
So McWeeny doesn't like Family Guy?
by RowdyRoddyStriper
Jun 30th, 2008
03:06:14 PM
Why am I not surprised? One needs intelligence and a sense of humor to enjoy Family Guy, two things dear McWeeny is sorely lacking in. Add to this the fact he thought The Incredible Hulk was a good movie, is it any wonder he is the least respected reviewer on this site? And where IS that Incredible Hulk review from McWeeny?
Devin form CHUD...
by m_reporter
Jun 30th, 2008
03:11:31 PM
...liked Fantastic 4. That alone kills all his credibility as a film reviewer.

At least for me.

Yes I want to see batman more but...
by nukethefridge
Jun 30th, 2008
03:11:55 PM
Gimme a hellboy graphic novel before a batman one.
RowdyRoddyStriper
by TheLastCleric
Jun 30th, 2008
03:12:24 PM
The fight in the prison yard wasn't all that jumpy or hard to follow. It was a jumble because he was fighting several guys at once but I thought it was pretty easy to follow. It was also brutally realistic.
damage inc: puppies
by zom-bot.com
Jun 30th, 2008
03:15:12 PM
i think you and me are the only ones that read that. i pictured lister saying all that over the phone in the middle of the night and cracked myself up agfain, i'm sorry. :D
Fight Scenes
by Slaphappy Slim
Jun 30th, 2008
03:18:51 PM
Isn't all of this parsing of the fight scenes in Begins beating a fucking dead horse at this point? Could they have been better? Sure. Were they nearly as bad as some of you make them out to be? (Now there's some hyperbole for you) Not even close. The fight scenes were such a small percentage of the film to begin with, as it was a movie about characters and their psychologies. If this were a more traditional superhero/action film the complaints would be more valid. But I have a hard time believing anybody truly felt the film was ruined for them because of quick cuts, etc.
Intelligence and humor to the Family Guy...
by Jonah Echo
Jun 30th, 2008
03:19:35 PM
If almost anything they did on that show had it's root in originality and wasn't a riff on something else, done better and smarter elsewhere then I could see your point. As is, I'd likely to suggest that anyone finding FG smart and freshly funny hasn't sampled much of whats out there comedically. That or you just truly marvel at the "brilliance" of random schtick.
PLANT!!!!!!!
by johnyaztec
Jun 30th, 2008
03:20:10 PM
That is a lant review if I'd ever read one
PLANT!!!!!!!
by johnyaztec
Jun 30th, 2008
03:20:19 PM
That is a plant review if I'd ever read one
It's time to play...
by Mr. Nice Gaius
Jun 30th, 2008
03:20:50 PM
...Guess the Cunt! Featuring RowdyRoddyStriper!
Because Family Guy requires intelligence?
by Elemeno Pee
Jun 30th, 2008
03:21:53 PM
... Since when? Maybe I'm not all that familiar with this site, but why is Moriarty the least respected reviewer? Judging from every review I've read on here in the past year or so, Moriarty comes off as the smartest writer. And possibly the only one that's well-read. He's praising Christopher Nolan and Guillermo Del Toro and you're praising Seth Macfarlane. I'll admit it.... I own the first volume of Family Guy on DVD. It's not intelligent. At all. I guess I understand why people enjoy it, but I'll never get why people defend it in a certain way. "You're just too stupid to understand Family Guy's intellectual ingenuity!"
family guy
by zom-bot.com
Jun 30th, 2008
03:25:52 PM
family guy took the patented homer flashback and made a whole series out of it, again and again.and again. then only by using what they learned from southpark as far as how far to push the adult limits of prime-time cartoons, did they fill the remainder with 'let's see what we can get away with'...at least the simpsons jumping from topic to topic has flow, family guy is so full of comedic flashbacks that there isn't even a progressive episode in between. not that a show needs that, it's just that they forgot it.
Man, Industry Killer...you're a biiiiiiiiitch...
by Brians Life
Jun 30th, 2008
03:29:13 PM
And if you couldn't follow the opening fight scene in Mongolia than you're retarded too!

Get past it!
IMAX Question
by McDee
Jun 30th, 2008
03:40:01 PM
I saw Attack of the Clones in IMAX after I saw it in a regular theater and noticed all the stuff that had been cut. Since then, I've avoided IMAX just because I didn't want to miss any scenes. When did movies stop being edited down for the IMAX screen?
I hate to sound like an ass...
by fassbinder79
Jun 30th, 2008
03:45:35 PM
But why is it that Dark Knight is being talked about with Hellboy 2? I liked the first Hellboy but Dark Knight is going to be on a WHOLE OTHER LEVEL. They aren't even in the same league as far as I'm concerned. Without naming names but are certain people in the geek internet film world trying to help their friend Del Toro have some success by piggy backing him on top of Nolan's popularity and buzz? I'm all for supporting good comic book films and filmmakers with a vision in Hollywood. But there is no way that Hellboy 2 is going to stand a candle to Dark Knight. Can't you talk about them separately please? I mean every review I've read of Hellboy 2 makes an apology for the first film in some way. If you have to set it up that way then somethings wrong. And by the way this is coming from someone who liked the Smith character in Hellboy 1.
9/11 and superhero movies...
by KurtLockwood
Jun 30th, 2008
03:47:31 PM
Drew, I know we've had our debates but you make a great point with 9/11 and it's influence. I remember when HELLBOY came out, it was right after the Iraq war started (tho 9/11 as it turned out had nothing to do with 9/11. Thanks, W.) Anyway, I remember cringing at the scenes in HELLBOY where the Nazi Ninja guy was gutting G.I.'s wholesale. Even though it was set in a different era, it was difficult for me to watch because we were supporting our troops and they were in the publi