Due to violence being eradicated by Harvey Dent, Commissioner Gordon and the City police, Gotham, eight years on from “The Dark Knight”, is a city of peace. After the cover up of Dent’s crimes in “The Dark Knight”, Gordon feels guilty and writes a speech of resignation. The speech falls into the hands of masked terrorist leader Bane, and here, the story begins…
With a cast consisting of Christian Bale, Morgan Freeman, Michael Caine, Anne Hathaway, Gary Oldman and Marion Collitard, you know this a film that is pretty special.
To put this in perspective, the five names listed above, have Oscars, Oscar Nominations, Golden Globes and countless other awards between them. Not to mention the fact that Morgan Freeman and Michael Caine are touted as two of the great living actors. It is interesting to note that they aren’t used much at all in the film, but as ever, give a great performance.
Famed for his unusual, gothic-esque films, director Christopher Nolan was initially reluctant about a third film in the Batman series, but after talking with his brother – writer and producer, Jonathan Nolan, they both decided to conclude the series with this third film. Their decision is certainly our gain!
After the incredible performance by the late Heath Ledger as the Joker in the previous Batman film, “The Dark Knight”, one may wonder how Nolan could top it, and create a character as menacing and cast as an actor so perfect for the role as Ledger was.
Step forward, Tom Hardy! Hardy, unknown for many years, despite a role in cult film “Layer Cake” received his break through a role in another of Christopher Nolan’s smash hit film, “Inception” – since then, he has starred in “Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy”, “Star – Trek” and has consistently been at the top of the most viewed stars list on IMDB for well over a month now. Hardy, bald and in costume with a mask and breathing apparatus around his face certainly made for a chilling promotional picture for the Batman film back in 2011 and then in the trailer we see the character speak. Combined with a mechanical voice, the character of Bane is certainly one of menace. Infact, Hardy’s portrayal of Bane was so menacing, that one review of the film declared that the character was a ‘ masked satan ‘.
It’s also interesting to see Anne Hathaway, known for her portrayals in Rom-Com films, taking the role as the mind controlling Selina Kyle AKA – Catwoman. We see Hathaway playing a key role here, as it’s her character that introduces Batman to Bane.
The director, Nolan is famous for liking to work with the same people. It is interesting to see that Tom Hardy, Marion Cotillard Michael Caine, Cillian Murphy and Joseph Gordon – Levitt were all in his previous smash – hit blockbuster movie, “Inception”.
My Batman Premiere Experience
I joined the queue at the premiere of “The Dark Knight Rises” in Leicester Square, London, to take some photos. It’s quite interesting being amongst members of the crowds, all waiting for the stars to arrive. Lots of people collecting autographs at events like these make a living by selling them, so tend to push and shove – this, unfortunately, happened to me, so some of the photos I took have come out a bit blurry.
First to arrive was Tom Hardy, he took his time with nearly everyone which is all the more impressive considering we were not positioned anywhere near the Red Carpet. It’s evident that he really appreciates the support given to him.
Next to arrive was Hollywood Legend, Morgan Freeman. Apparently due to a car accident a few years ago, he’s in pain with his hand and arm and as a result, can’t sign autographs. To make up for this and to the delight of the crowd, he took a few minutes to wave.
After this, Marion Cotillard arrived – Oscar Nominated, Cotillard has appeared in a wide variety of films in both Hollywood and in her native France.
In summary, the film is a must see. The statistic stating that it has grossed £800 million + also backs this up! I realise that due tothe film being relatively new, a lot of people haven’t yet seen it so I have tried my best not too mention too much about the film so you can enjoy it without spoilers! Let me know if you have seen it though and what you think about it!
