The Dark Knight - 10 stars out of 10

The Dark Knight - 10 stars out of 10

"Batman Begins" set the bar really high and I don't know if anybody believed that it could be topped; and yet, "The Dark Knight" undoubtedly trumps its predecessor.  Christopher Nolan once again utilizes a character-based script to create a film that makes a strong statement, carrying the theme of justice that connects his entire trilogy.  With Bruce Wayne's backstory explained in the previous installment, this sequel allows Nolan to focus on developing the most evil, sinister, psychotic villain in movie history: Joker.  This new movie icon provides pure chills with a disturbing, fearless desire to "burn the world down."  Even though I was never a fan of his prior to this film, I believe that Heath Ledger established himself as one of the greatest actors in the history of film with his role in "The Dark Knight."  His interpretation of the Joker, while nothing like previous depictions, is villainous perfection.  A motivated killer can be very frightening, but a relentless psychopath without a fear of death is about as scary as it gets.  If you've seen Ledger in any other role, you likely would not recognize him as the Joker.  His voice that varies from playful to a growl, the subtle mannerisms like the licking of his lips, and the way that he moves is a complete transformation away from the actor that we know.  Joker is just plain terrifying and Ledger's posthumous Oscar is more than a tribute - it is an indication of cinematic genius.  Although most of this review is dedicated to Ledger (as it should be), Aaron Eckhart is incredible as Harvey Dent.  Christian Bale, Michael Caine, and Morgan Freeman are amazing again, and there is really only one problem with this film: Maggie Gyllenhaal.  I hate Katie Holmes for not signing on for this sequel and allowing her role to be taken over by an annoying actress who looks like her face is constantly smushed up against a glass window.  She is simply awful in this role and actually detracted from the fine performances of everybody else.  But it is easy to get over it with the nonstop action, strong plot, excellent acting by the rest of the cast, and self-sacrifice by Batman.  With the Joker running rampant, this story has so many unexpected twists, particularly his "social experiment" with the two ferries on the water and by making Batman choose to save his love or his cause.  People may be asking you "Why so serious?" as you unwind from this film, but it's simply because the tension of this film will be visible on your face as you comprhend the levity of the hero that Gotham deserves, but not the one that it needs right now.