User Score
9.0 out of 10

Universal acclaim- based on 2988 Ratings

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  1. AndreasK.
    Jul 17, 2008
    10
    Genre defying masterpiece!
  2. EmilyW.
    Jul 17, 2008
    10
    I saw this movie two days before its release, at a special pre-screening. Now, just this one fact should tell you how great this movie was: not once did any of the people in the (full) theater talk. Everyone was too busy watching the action--and the drama, and the humor. Great performances from everyone, and Maggie Gyllenhaal is a great improvement over Katie Holmes (no slight to her, she just wasn't right for the role.) There are a few clichés (becoming like your enemy, chaos vs. order) but even those just add to the complexity and scope of the story. Honestly, if you want a movie that combines top-notch action, black humor, tragedy, romance, and just about every other genre into an unnervingly realistic whole, you can't beat the Dark Night. Expand
  3. CraigG.
    Jul 17, 2008
    10
    The Dark Knight really conveys how a psycho like the Joker would actually behave in real life and passes on philosophy that can be related to our society today.
  4. StephenT.
    Jul 17, 2008
    10
    A movie which rips out your thoughts and ideals of what the real consequences would be behind the actions of a "hero" and the morals and vulnerabilities of the cities they protect. An intense cinema experience made all the more watchable by one of the best performances that my generation will likely ever see. There will never be another joker!
  5. MichaelH.
    Jul 17, 2008
    10
    This movie really was amazing. I know everyone has been saying how amazing Heath Ledger is in this movie and they were right. He actually manages to make the Joker scary, unpredictable yet still humorous in a twisted way. I truly do believe that he may have been the best villain in a movie.
  6. Hilary
    Jul 18, 2008
    9
    Great movie, too bad Heath Ledger died. Christian Bale is great as usual. Aaron Eckhart turns in a great performance. The movie was pretty much fantastic, if a little long.
  7. JayM.
    Jul 18, 2008
    9
    Overall, the movie is great. It's dark, very mature, without having to be graphic or profane. I've always thought that great movies don't need to have excessive violence or language in order to be a good movie, and The Dark Knight proves this point to be true. The reason I am not rating this movie 10 is because the ending really took a slow turn. The last 10 minutes or so really slowed the action down to a crawl. The ending really didn't leave you wanting more, it just kind of "ended". I would highly recommend you go see The Dark Knight, but you've probably already seen it, or are on your way now, so you don't need me telling you that. Expand
  8. CourtS.
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    In my opinion, one of the best movies I have ever seen. It's up there along with the original Jurassic Park, and Independence Day. Ledger does possibly the best acting I have ever seen.
  9. ScottV.
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    Heath Ledger put on an Oscar-winning performance and really made his character, the Joker, come alive. And, of course, Christen Bale and Michael Kain were brilliant.
  10. DanielS.
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    The NY Times review has it right when it compares this film with Zodiac. Both dark and enthralling. But the DK is highly superior and lived to its hype more that I could ever expected. It blew my mind and Heath's performance like the movie was just stunning. This is a serious art film that just happens to have comic book characters. You could feel the energy in the air while watching it. Everyone around me was gasping for air and thrilled to be watching such spectacle. Expand
  11. KatarinaM.
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    A 10 + For Heath Ledger This film was dynamic and on the edge of your seat exhilarating .I can understand how this character would be tough to get out of his subconscious.I truly enjoyed the well thought intensity of this film.And Arron Eckhart was incredible also!!!!!!!
  12. PrestonM.
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    Ledger was amazing as the Joker, and the movie dared to be unconventional in the fact that it let people die, and it let the "good guy's" appearance be less than immaculate. Though it seemed to have enough plot for two movies, I feel that this installment was so triumphant in achieving everything it wanted, it should be the cemented end of the saga. Trying to top this would be a set up for failure, and ending it would be a great memorial to Ledger, who was amazing in this, and deserves a posthumous Oscar for best supporting. Expand
  13. DavidJ.
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    This movie was better than Tim Burton's Batman. Heath Ledger was amazing. Personally, i think he would've made Alan Moore and Frank Miller either pleased or proud, thus why people speculate if he should get an Oscar. One great thing Nolan did about this movie, he didn't revisit Batman's origin (death of his parents). He just moved on with the story. That's why the other bat sequels stank, they look back into origins TOO much. This was a fantastic film. and if you miss this movie, you would have missed this summer's greatest hit. Expand
  14. Andrew
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    Went to the Midnight opening. Wow... Wow.. Epic beyond words!
  15. C.K.
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    Amazing.
  16. MikeN.
    Jul 18, 2008
    8
    Ledger is great. The movie is a whole is excellent, but perhaps a little lacking in memorably iconic moments. There is also a half hour diversion to China in the middle of the film that seems out of place. Worth seeing. Not really a film for young kids.
  17. JeremyW.
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    The Dark Knight very well could be the "BEST" comic book movie ever made, by far the best of the Batman series.
  18. BrianJ.
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    Outstanding. The only troublesome thing about the entire experience is that there will never be as great a Joker as seen here.
  19. BobN.
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    It astounds me that some critics gave this awesome film such poor ratings. Ledger was perfect as Joker. When he showed up, I thought "Finally...they made Joker like everyone truly imagined him." Incredibly dark, philosophical, moving and cool. Nolan is a top notch director. Bale is a top notch actor. Perfect combination. This, ladies and gentleman, is the real Batman, the real Joker, another Batman film (Begins as well) done with justice to the character and ethos of the comic and graphic comics in mind. The other Batman films were horrible and horribly PC. Batman has never been PC. Which is why some critics of biased liberal idiotic "journals" do not like it. This is why this film will make tons of dough. Not because Heath died, but because Batman rocks, and the Joker is the ultimate agent of chaos. Go see it now (don't bring your kids though). Expand
  20. RickeyD.
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    How some of the critics gave this anything under a 95 is beyond me. The Dark Knight is everything a movie should be, and then some. It is a movie that is so good, that it has single-handedly changed movie making for the rest of time.
  21. JohnP
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    The best movie of the year so far. The best superhero movie of all time. The best sequel ever. Heath kicks Jacks ass as the Joker. Long live the Batman !!!
  22. JessE
    Jul 18, 2008
    8
    The real star of "the Dark Knight" is Aaron Eckhart who gives an outstanding performance as Harvey Dent. Ledger is very good as the Joker but Maggie Gyllanhaal could have stayed home and she would not have being missed. Overall the film and the story is murky and muddled with too many fast cut edits and twists and leaves a lot to be desired. Overhyped and overpraised.
  23. BrandonC.
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    Best movie I have seen in years and is also now my favorite Batman movie. That was previously hard to attain since Mask of the Phantasm. I felt drained afterwards because of all the tension. It was almost as intense as watching Saving Private Ryan.
  24. SergioP.
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    Batman has never been better on screen. Joker is really amazing. Caos. Only the gadgets are lame.
  25. Red
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    The Joker's calling card may be that of a joker, but this movie rises above to be an ace. It steps outside the realm of a cliché 'comic book movie.' Dark Knight offers the viewer action, suspense, drama. Story lines are interwoven and you feel immersed in movie with the ability to connect to the characters. Of which all the leading performances are presented flawlessly. Heath Ledger's Joker stands out gripping the viewer from the beginning. Nolan has truly raised the bar for this genre, and we can only hope Gotham will call upon Batman again for a third installment. Expand
  26. NancyH
    Jul 18, 2008
    9
    The moral dilemma and how far does one get pushed before falling into the abyss? Ledger was brilliant and only underscores the loss of such an amazing talent. Bale,Ekhart, Oldman, Caine, et al equally stood up to their roles. My only complaint was that it was a tad long to get to the punch line. Excellent all around.
  27. JonathanF
    Jul 18, 2008
    9
    Awesome. Heath Ledger is unreal. it's such a shame that he died because he would have had an incredible career. this movie is one hell of a ride, and ledger as the joker practically fuels the fire.
  28. Brandon
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    An incredible movie. Heath Ledger did a more than outstanding job as the Joker.
  29. DanielF.
    Jul 18, 2008
    9
    Ok, I'm a big skeptic when it comes to Hollywood. I'm of the opinion that 95% of what they produce is garbage. i even expected to be disappointed by this movie, I've never been a heath ledger fan, and i tend to not believe the hype, ever. but this is for real. it doesn't feel like you're watching an actor, it feels like they busted some psycho out of prison and put him in a movie. it just doesn't seem possible that this is the same guy that was in "10 things i hate about you." overall the movie has some issues, it might have been too ambitious for a 2-3 hour movie. Maggie Gyllenhall is forgettable, and there are a few silly cliches that remind you that this is a comic book movie. this isn't a perfect movie, but ledger gives a perfect performance. It's just plain creepy. Expand
  30. Ryencoke
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    It's a shame we will never get to see another villain like this. This was the best movie of the year, hands down.
  31. SeanM
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    This movie was much more than I had expected, and greater than anything I could've wanted from a Batman movie. The character development was just phenomenal and I couldn't believe how well Heath Ledger played the role of the Joker. He was simply disturbing, sadistic, and at some points quite comical even if the situation was gruesome. This movie definitely deserves all praise it receives, this is a movie I will go to again just because I can't wait for this to come out on dvd. Expand
  32. IanO.
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    I give this a 9.5 but still this movie rocks I love the JOcker almost as much as BATMAN and the action is wicked there is not enoth WORDS to describe this MOVIE this movie is the best of the BEST this YEAR SO go see it and stop READING this!!!
  33. RandyM.
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    Simply put: it will leave you speechless. Disturbingly terrific.
  34. GrahamE.
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    Magnificent performances all around (excluding Gyllenhaal) with a story that never drags. Every time the movie seems to be heading toward a lull it picks right back up and throws you back into the mix. Heath Ledger completely redefines the Joker into the maniacal anarchist he had the potential to become.
  35. MikeCardCard
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    I went into this movie with some of the highest expectations I've ever had for a film. I left realizing I was shocked, it totally and completely lived up to all of them. In fact, it actually surpassed them. To put it bluntly, The Dark Knight is one of the closest things I've seen to a perfect film to come out of American cinema in years. Everything about it pushes boundaries of its genre and every superhero film that comes out from now on will be compared to this one. Every performance is spot on. Christian Bale pulls off Bruce Wayne again which is something that I was a little worried he might try to change up but I'm happy to say he nailed it again. Michael Caine is awesome (but then again when is he not). I was skeptical to whether or not Heath Ledger was going to really be as good as the hype and let me just say: YES he was INCREDIBLE. I don't know how to pull it off but his Joker literally terrified me and at the same time made me laugh. I can't really explain it its something that must be seen and I can definitely say that he does deserve an Oscar nomination for his role. The role of the Joker is terrifying just by itself and when Ledger steps in and adds an almost likable side to him its almost disturbing. You don't want to laugh at the man in a clown suit making Jokes because he's also doing horrible things to people. Aaron Eckhart is also awesome in this as Harvey Dent and definitely deserves to be mentioned. The writing is top notch and at this point I want Nolan to take the Batman franchise wherever he wants and he clearly knows where he wants to go. The story takes every plothole and cliche from superhero films and fixes them. It's well paced, never boring and most of all you always are left wanting to know what happens next. I don't have a complaint. This is not the Batman you've always known. This is something new, yet still the same. I've never seen a film reinvent something like this. This doesn't feel like some crazy superhero story that takes place somewhere else. For the first time it almost feels real. The danger feels real, that's where this movie really starts to come into its own and it becomes something more than a superhero movie. The action was top notch and there are some truly badass scenes. To sum it up: not only is this the best superhero film EVER MADE, but its also one of the best films I've ever seen. Expand
  36. Repairman
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    One of the most satisfying mixtures of both cinematic escapism and intellectual art I have ever come across in the world of cinema. The fact that it is based on a childish lore, has nothing and everything to do with this complex dichotomy of everything that is life, cinema and human, all mixed into one. This movie, while exposing the multiple levels of duality in each one of us, also inspires us to be better, think better, while challenging the very notion of good vs. bad in the first place. It is nothing short of a modern masterpiece, and I am certain history will prove it as such. Expand
  37. EthanD.
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    Just got back from this movie, and it is utterly terrific. Agreed that the cell phone sonar thing doesn't make sense, and agreed that the end was a minor let down, but that's only in comparison the the hours of ass-kicking action that precede it. Go see this movie, for the love of God.
  38. JoKer
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    I went in expecting something the equal to Batman Begins. I absolutely loved the prequel to this movie, and figured that they might just top it with this next movie. Coming back, I'm stunned when thinking that Heath Ledger was the Joker. I apologize for rudeness, but I truly wondered whether he could pull it off, given his past work. As it turns out, his performance was nothing less than spectacular, easily topping Jack Nicholson's performance of Joker from 1989. I can honestly say that I cringed, laughed, and stood in awe of this latest rendition of Joker. Somehow, this movie went back to the basics of Hero and Villain more than any movie I've yet seen. The entirety of Batman's and Joker's characters were actually based around the morality that they stood for, rather than their ability to physically wreak havoc. Its not that they were lack luster in that respect. You just get so much more drawn into the moral dilemmas they must face. I give this movie a "10" only because there is no other way to express the genius of it. Expand
  39. AlexB.
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    This movie is amazing. It's a SuperHero movie with huge morals and wonderful grace, with superb acting, the latter conceding to everyone, not just the fantastic Heath Ledger, brilliant direction, top of the line action, and a dark, even sadistic realism that it seems some critics can't bare. The only shame I can feel for this movie is how underappreciated it will be.
  40. alexb
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    I thought I was staying up to midnight to see a great COMICBOOK movie. I didn't. Instead I saw a GREAT comicbook MOVIE, the first one since Spider-Man 2! I can't fathem five supporting actors between now and the end of the year that could possibly shove Heath Ledger out of, at least, a nomination for the Oscar. I'm having a hard time thinking of five performances EVER that were better. GO SEE IT! Expand
  41. SteveK
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    Smarter than any superhero movie deserves to be. This is a great movie with so much more depth than a summer blockbuster deserves. A great great film. More story and themes (translate: slower) than some in the ADD generation can tolerate (at times, at least), but if you like your movies epic, if you appreciate movies with depth, and you even remotely like Batman, this is a must-see, but you didn't need me to tell you that. The Joker adds an unnerving, edge-of-the-seat unpredictability to this movie that you so rarely see in superhero movies and well, any movie nowadays. It cannot be understated that Heath Ledger is brilliant. The only negative I can see is that I honestly don't know where they can go from here? How do you top this? What other Batman villain can hold a candle to the Joker (especially this masterful portrayal of the iconic villain that for obvious reasons cannot be reprised)? I almost wish that they don't make another one just because this one is so damn good and the next one will almost certainly be a disappointment with the standard set so impossibly high. Expand
  42. zeppyrkr
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    Utterly amazing, films don't get any better then this.
  43. SimonM.
    Jul 18, 2008
    10
    What can I say? read just about any other review and you'll have my opinion. It's just a crying shame that Ledger can't reprise this roll. Also I want to say "I was wrong". I was one of those who thought he was going to ruin the part before I'd actually seen footage of him in character. His take was equal to Nicholson's, though completely different in tone. A Perfect 10!
  44. RCR
    Jul 19, 2008
    10
    This is the treatment Batman has always deserved; Blurred moral boundaries and unapologetic villainy. Ledger's Joker exudes maddness and is the pinnacle of a pyschotic portrait. All facets of this gem are flawless.
  45. ChristianP.
    Jul 19, 2008
    9
    Great nuances keep you interested. although it's long, i never got bored -- whether it was action movie stuff, the acting of the wonderful cast, the interesting turn in the music and audio editing, or the overall mood. wonderful, wonderful film that puts other comic book movies to shame.
  46. KevinSlaten
    Jul 19, 2008
    10
    Spot on. Actually, beyond my expectations. One of the few long movies that requires the time to tell the story well and that seems to go by quickly. The complexities of the sotry and characters is wonderful. Let's see if this Batman series can keep the next movie(s) up to *this* par!
  47. RyanA.
    Jul 19, 2008
    10
    This is not only the best Batman movie ever. But also the best movie ever!
  48. ManuelD.
    Jul 19, 2008
    10
    Truelly brilliant, not just the best Batman movie ever. But also one of the best movies made in at least 20 years. Ledger owns the Joker part and deserves every known movie award there is.
  49. JuanF.
    Jul 19, 2008
    10
    It couldn't have been more satisfying unless it was 5 hours long. I can think of 12 critics who are factually wrong, and I'm not sure if it'll ever set in that Heath Ledger's gone, because how can he be?
  50. JohnH.
    Jul 19, 2008
    10
    Easily the best movie based on a comic. A real movie.
  51. TimothyD.
    Jul 19, 2008
    10
    Heaths performace is suberb. Some of the Best acting ive ever seen
  52. RobertsA.
    Jul 19, 2008
    9
    EVEN BETTER THAN THE HYPE The Dark Knight (TDK) on IMAX may be one of the best films I have ever seen ... up until the third act of the film. This is not to say the third act of the film isn't good, however. It is just familiar for fans of comic books films. The film's excellent performances, including Mr. Ledger's transformation into the role of the Joker, match the skill of the writers and producers of the film. Mr. Nolan vision and expansion of the world of Batman are breathtaking ... and a welcome change from earlier comic book adaptations. While many audience members will be drawn in to see the film out of morbid curiosity after Mr. Ledger's untimely death, I expect many will see it as a celebration of fine acting and enjoy the movie as one of the best films of the year ... if not decade. Regardless of why you go see the movie, TDK is a must see for those who love movies and what the profession of acting can offer us, which is pure entertainment. Expand
  53. ShaunM.
    Jul 19, 2008
    8
    Completely overrated. Very good however.
  54. Nathan
    Jul 19, 2008
    5
    This movie is a jumbled mess. Nolan tries to do too much without making clear sense of things. There is little to no character development while the plot hurdles onward, multiplying into several different (incoherent) story lines. The result is a confusing series of events flashed on screen with no meaning behind it. I could identify the events and the characters performing them, but I did not know why. . .nor did I care. The ONLY saving grace is the Joker. Expand
  55. LisaB.
    Jul 19, 2008
    10
    Awesome installment in the iconic Batman franchise. Christan Bale is pitch perfect as cocky, twisted in his own way Bruce Wayne. The Joker is sociopathic and fleshed out by Heath Ledger like no one before him.
  56. MattA.
    Jul 19, 2008
    9
    I went in with mild expectations when seeing the dark knight. I admit to liking the lore of batman, but i wasn't the hugest fan of the first film (begins). This movie, however, blew me away in a way that was not expected. The characters were very well developed, and their pains and ambitions seeped through their performance. Batman and Harvey are two men who are affected by the same problem in totally different ways, and the inevitable conclusion follows. I don't say that i'll go and see a movie twice often, but i believe this one deserves it. Expand
  57. JohnS.
    Jul 19, 2008
    9
    -1 for Maggie G, her acting was fine, she is not attractive enough for the role. Look at the tail that Bruce is with in other parts of the movie. Katie Holmes was more believable in the role. Other than that the movie was excellent, half way through it didn't even feel like a superhero/comic book movie. More like a psychological thriller with a terrorist twist.
  58. CurtisL.
    Jul 19, 2008
    9
    Very entertaining. Since everyone is heaping nothing but praise i will change it up. Three things that i did not like. 1.Honestly how was this movie only pg-13. i mean i know why, because it make more money that way, but seriously, this movie was extremely violent. I am no prude, but pg 13, really? The magic trick with the pencil should have made it R let alone the rest of the brutal violence. 2. I did not like the ending. Dent should have shot the boy, it was corny to have batman save him. i am no weirdo, but it seems like the 3 "knight" all should have lost someone, bruce and harvey lost rachel, but gordon did not have to suffer at all. I just thought with the way the movie was going it would have been more true to the story to have the kid get shot. 3. Maggie Gyllenhal is a terrible actor. thank god her character was killed off because i think she could have singlehandedly destroyed everyone elses performance through the poor quality of her own. That being said all of the other actors put in great performances. the two and half hours was over too soon for me and left me wanting more. great film, i hope they do not make a third because they cannot top this, especially considering they cannot bring back the joker character considering ledger's cowardly death. That's right i said it, overdosing on drugs is not a tragedy, it is a diservice to people who do die tragically to put a drug addicts death on the same level Expand
  59. HollyC
    Jul 19, 2008
    8
    Excellent film --starts off beautifully--- a tad too much fat in the middle, but ends brilliantly. As others have said, this film really elevates the "superhero genre" to real drama---like Lord of the Rings did in a way. The cast was a big part of that-- Ledger, Ekhart, Bale & Gyllenhaal (much preferred over Holmes) were absolutely solid, with perhaps Ledger outshining a bit. But he really did have the most to prove given the iconic Joker Nicholson created---and Ledger totally hit it out of the park and then some. This is just a great tragic drama---one of the better films I've seen this year. Had they tightened up the middle a bit, I would say this was almost a perfect film. Even saying that though, run and see this thing in theaters--definitely worth the price of admission (& to see some particularly great action scenes as they were meant to be seen). Expand
  60. SteveO.
    Jul 19, 2008
    10
    I loved it. Blows away every superhero movie ever made pretty much.
  61. AS
    Jul 19, 2008
    10
    This movie was absolutely god damn awesome! Easily the best movie I've gone to see at the theaters in AGES and it was worth every cent! MUCH better than Batman Begins. The action was non stop. Brilliant acting and my god did Heath Ledger deliver an absolutely convincing and amazing performance. Throughout the whole movie it actually made me somewhat sad as I was seeing how well he portrayed the Joker knowing that he won't be returning in future Batman movies which is an immense shame. I know he'll get an Oscar for this because his performance was FLAWLESS and he was definitely the standout in this movie. Even if he was still alive he'd still be the standout. Batman seemed to be in the shadows a bit in this movie. Expand
  62. JonS.
    Jul 19, 2008
    10
    Oh my damn! I went into this movie already with high expectations, as many of my co-workers saw the midnight showing), and "The Dark Knight," still managed to surpass them. This is the greatest Batman film I have seen, one of the greatest action movies I have ever seen, as well as one of the greatest movies I have ever seen. "The Dark Knight," receives an all too well deserved 10 from me.
  63. CM.
    Jul 19, 2008
    9
    It's really hard to poke holes in this movie. It could be done, but just enjoy it for what it is, a true piece of cinematic art.
  64. MarceloL.
    Jul 19, 2008
    10
    Oustanding performance of Heath Ledger take this movie to the next level. Producers should make the desition to dedicate this movie to his memory. And that is not joke.
  65. JacobR.
    Jul 19, 2008
    10
    This movie is simply amazing! I am literally speechless. In my opinion, Heath Ledger is the best Joker! He deserves an Oscar!
  66. ShannaM
    Jul 19, 2008
    10
    I watched it twice, two nights in a row. Best movie of the year so far.
  67. NicholeD.
    Jul 19, 2008
    10
    I wasn't planning to see the movie, but I'm glad I did. The cast was outstanding. Every major actor sold his/her role. I haven't seen a film this good in years. It was sad to watch Heath Ledger give such an amazing performance, but thankfully, his performance and other more than make up for the hype. One final thought, for those who may feel put off by the movie's violence, the most depraved acts were not shown on screen, and the action is great. Expand
  68. NicholasD
    Jul 19, 2008
    10
    Perfect.
  69. TomS
    Jul 19, 2008
    10
    Took over where Batman Begins left off and continued the awesome tale of Christian Bale's batman, the best one to date. Kudos to all involved and to Christoper Nolan.
  70. MackC.
    Jul 19, 2008
    10
    Best portrayal of Batman and the Joker......ever.....bar none.
  71. RickyR.
    Jul 19, 2008
    7
    honest review: way over hyped... realistically: on par with the last one. people who gives 10s are idiotic because there were tons of flaws in it including being long, complicated, and silly at times (boats). ledger is great at acting creepy/wacky, but that's hardly oscar deserving.
  72. KevinS.
    Jul 19, 2008
    10
    Best movie I have ever seen, It had everything you could possibly want, action, humor, mystery, compelling characters, a great message, and most of all Batman!
  73. ChadS.
    Jul 19, 2008
    6
    The Dark Knight was entirely over hyped and did not live up to my expectations, which were high, but not too high. Overall, Heath Ledger did a good job as the joker, but i wouldn't give him an academy award, which they probably will simply because he died. Christian Bale still seems like an awkward fit for Batman to me, but doesn't ruin the movie in any way at all. The main reason in my opinion the Dark Knight wasn't as good as it should've been was because of how implausible everything was and the poor directing. I understand this is a superhero/comic book movie, but it takes a much more realistic/dark/gritty approach. I mean, Batman doesn't have super powers like superman or anything, so they kind of have to be more realistic, but some things in the movie I just sat there shaking my head like "...yeah ok. " The fight scenes with Batman look like they are in slow motion and are not well done or exhilarating at all. This however is not to say Batman was a bad movie, it was still good, just not as good as it should and could have been. Like i stated earlier, the joker is a great villain and he was played well by Ledger. The moral dilemmas are interesting and I thoroughly enjoyed the last part with the 2 boats and Dent (that's not really a spoiler so don't worry). And the fact that Batman refuses to kill was unique and put a good spin to everything. Also, the love triangle between Gyllenhall (sp?), Bale, and Dent, since i don't know the actor who played him, spiced things up a bit, and the movie was still enjoyable. With everything being said, Batman was not like the recent Indiana Jones, which was atrocious, but at the same time it's not the best summer blockbuster I've ever seen. It's still undoubtedly worth going to see, not like you weren't going to though, but if you aren't interested in the movie and were looking for a reason to go, i assure you that this unbiased opinion is telling you that the Dark Knight won't change your mind and make you like Batman. So, there you have it, my final verdict on the Dark Knight is, on a scale of 1-10, 5 being average, a 6.5/10. Expand
  74. DavidV
    Jul 19, 2008
    10
    The best movie this year, and the best superhero movie by far. It was just really well directed, written, and all the performances were fantastic (especially Ledger).
  75. GeorgeM.
    Jul 21, 2008
    10
    It's finally here and unlike a great many films out there that simply can't satisfy the "hype monster".....this one grabs the monster by the head and shows him the "dissapearing pencil trick". This IS the best comic book film if not one of the best FILMS ever made.....period. The dark, gritty, and unrewarding places this movie will take you is both depressing and captivating at the same time.....as in you truly feel "at a loss" at the end, that evil hasn't won but simply proven it cannot be denied its existence no matter who is there to stop it. The Dark Knight far exceeds Batman Begins in almost EVERY category save for the "origin story" aspect.....whether it be the villains, the heroes involved, or the situation at hand everything seems far more dangerous and "on the brink of disaster" in this sequel. This is a super-hero film where the hero is truly a step behind throughout the entire flick even when you THINK he's gaining ground.....he simply isn't, instead he's losing it far faster with each passing moment. As for the performances.....Heath Ledger steals the show hands down, he simply sizzles on screen as the Joker to a level where you are mesmerized by the character, his actions, his ticks, his intentions, and origin keep you wondering about the "man behind the painted face", this menace, this jester with the brains and violent nature to cripple an entire city.....youll believe he can succeed, and for the most part he does. Aaron Eckhart turns in a performance that will blow your mind as well, going from saviour of hope to the destroyer of it is both tragic and well displayed, you can truly feel this mans anger as he goes head hunting for those that **SPOILER** "burned" him (pun intended). Batman is sort of the middle man in this film, but at the end of it all and once the poop has hit the fan and splatterred all over the room.....he is left to clean it up with his bare hands. So IS this one of the greatest movies of our time......YES.....IT IS just that, its vastly entertaining with superb performances, amazing and well timed action sequences, and a interesting look at human beings and what we're capable of doing under the most dire of circumstances. A+....highest recomendation. Expand
  76. IoannisP.
    Jul 21, 2008
    10
    The best Batman, the best comic book movie, one of the best action-crime drama movies ever!
  77. MannyF.
    Jul 21, 2008
    10
    Awesome, crime/cop/detective drama and the fact that the characters are from Batman make it twice as awesome. It's like Scorsese made a comic book film, Nolan is just as good! SEE THIS MOVIE!
  78. SusanR.
    Jul 20, 2008
    10
    Amazing. I saw it at midnight-- I was originally not intending to see it at all and my friend had an extra ticket. It was absolutley breathtaking. It lacked the slowness of the first movie. Yes, DK had its action and fight scenes and violence, but it managed to also maintain a plot-- a rariety in today's film industry. The cast was beautifully cast. The only weakness in the casting was Maggie Gyllenhaal, who unfortunatley just played herself. Aaron Eckhart did a wonderful job displaying the struggles of a man--in well, you'll see. And even if Heath Ledger hadn't died, and this was not his last role, his performance would still be something talked about years from now. HIs grovely voice and little tics, made the character human, something that while sitting in the audience, even you can fear. An amazing cast, amazing plot, and amazing setting. Go watch it. You'll be pleasantly surprised. Expand
  79. TerryW.
    Jul 21, 2008
    8
    A very good movie, especially for this genre. Ledger is brilliant and almost puppy dog sad in the sadistic swirl of his Joker character. Good action, good gizmos, nice, if sometimes confusing and higly unlikely plot twists. All in all, a very good, not quite great movie that is weighed down a bit by its morality study manner and general murkiness, both in plot and look. That said, easily one or two of the best action flicks in the last couple of years and well worth watching. Expand
  80. MaxP.
    Jul 21, 2008
    6
    I wanted to love this film sooooo much. I loved Batman Begins. I loved Tim Burton's Batman as well. Perhaps it was the hype, perhaps it was just me, but I left feeling a sense of disappointment that took me the whole night to figure out. Without getting into every detail of what I think is wrong (and there is plenty right with the film and worth seeing), I didn't find it the absolute masterpiece that it's been made out to be. If I went in with low expectations, who knows, I may have felt something else. Expand
  81. AparícioN.
    Jul 21, 2008
    10
    O melhor filme de todos os tempos.
  82. JeffG.
    Jul 21, 2008
    0
    I love dark movies -- Pan's Labyrinth, Apocalypse Now -- but Dark Knight isn't dark: it's sick. If you like horror movies like Hostel and Saw III, maybe this'll be up your line -- but come on: a cell phone stitched into a guy's stomach and rigged to explode crosses a line for me. There's no point, no message, just sick, disturbing sadism.
  83. MarcD.
    Jul 21, 2008
    9
    Amazing. Ledger is simply disturbing.
  84. SahibG.
    Jul 21, 2008
    10
    This is the best comic book movie to date, and i highly doubt it will be topped. No question it is the movie of the year and Heath Ledger deserves the Oscar for it, and I'm not saying it because he passed away, I'm saying it because he was amazing as The Joker!
  85. CLo
    Jul 21, 2008
    10
    CONFUSED AND TOO LONG. great critique. the movie WAS long, but it kept coming back with more and more intensity and surprises. Ledger's joker was unbelievable. i always liked him as an actor, and to see him (i'm stealing this from a critic's review) transcend his own acting ability the way he did just moved me... and i was so sad every time i remembered that he's gone. posthumous academy award, anyone? Expand
  86. LuisG.
    Jul 20, 2008
    10
    This is the best Batman movie ever, Christopher Nolan should be nominated for Best Director on the Oscars! Don't miss this movie
  87. JoshF.
    Jul 21, 2008
    10
    Heath Ledgers performance as the Joker is simply amazing. This Dark Knight is even better than Batman Begins.
  88. ZinoD.
    Jul 20, 2008
    10
    Thrilling... a jet coaster that serves haute cuisine and drops you off in the middle of an insane asphalt jungle. Great script, black humor to write home about, and Heath Ledger's finest performance. Definitely the guy gets the Best Actor Award this year. Or I'll blow up a hospital.
  89. MonaA.
    Jul 20, 2008
    10
    This movie was just as good, if not better, than the first one. Viewers will not be disappointed. Just when I thought the movie was over, Joker pulls another one of his ingenious tricks again and again. I will probably have to watch this movie again to fully understand the characters' motives and the intricate plot. Overall, it was an amazing film with a promising plot, new ideas, and great action scenes. Expand
  90. Worthasecondviewing
    Jul 20, 2008
    8
    Best Movie Ever? No, and that was pretty obvious before seeing the movie. Best Comic Book Movie Ever? Depends on what you're looking for, I wouldn't say it was. Over hyped? What isn't these days. A good flick, absolutely. I was one of the eager to see this and hoped it would live up to it's hype...what can I say, I'm an optimist. I think Ledger did an outstanding,daring and brilliant job as joker. It takes a certain swagger to take that roll and pull it off with Nicholson looming over for critique. I thought the plot was a little more than needed and there were glaringly terrible lines delivered in scenes that made me wonder how they could have been overlooked when this was written. Bale's batman voice is irritating at best and unbearable at worst. All that aside, I didn't notice the length of this movie at all while watching it, the pace of the film worked well for me and I felt there was a healthy sense of camp in the characters delivery left underlying and keeping the movie from taking itself too seriously. It's definitely not a movie for everyone and it will not please everyone but I still have to say that I have not seen a batman movie since Burton's first that had me as interested and excited for the next scene throughout...and yes, Imax helped perpetuate the larger than life feel that added to that. I don't think this is going to reshape Batman to a point of epiphany and I would be wary of expecting that going into any movie...you'll be grossly disappointed. If you want to see an action packed crime drama play out between a hero and villain we have all been familiar with for ages, then go and enjoy. Expect to have fun and leave the imperfections aside and I have trouble seeing anyone coming out of this movie wishing they had not seen it to begin with. Expand
  91. AdamA-Rallo
    Jul 21, 2008
    10
    Unbelievably good. No single element, actor, or production area falters, bringing the best of Batman comics to the screen with an eye so discerning it threatens to create a new genre for itself: not the superhero movie, but the superhero film.
  92. AgustinL.
    Jul 20, 2008
    10
    The best Batman of all. One of the best movies of the year (if is not the best). Heath Ledger should win the Oscar for his Joker and Christian Bale is just the best Batman we ll see
  93. AM
    Jul 20, 2008
    9
    Simply brilliant.
  94. AlisaH.
    Jul 20, 2008
    10
    I pity anybody who doesn't get the privilege to see this movie. It's spectacular, amazing, any word you care to use, it's just that good. Whatever I say here does no justice to the quality film-making that is The Dark Knight, the acting, directing, acting, storyline, everything. . .flawless.
  95. JimD.
    Jul 21, 2008
    10
    This movie is the very definition of why we go to the movies. It's entertaining, engrossing and thought provoking. Even my wife loved it! And she wanted to see Mamma Mia!...
  96. GuayChristianP.
    Jul 20, 2008
    10
    Flawless and outstanding screenplay, the Film is fantastic from point A to point B. Christian Bale unleashed the true essence of what Batman is and play it perfectly. Heath Ledger is definitely outstanding with his mimmicks & screenplays, giving us the perfect match. The story is great, the sub-story plots are crazy, the characters are well played and the Joker is giving an incredible moral twist behind the movie! Thx Guys for that film! 10/10... no I would go for a 11/10. Expand
  97. ZackS.
    Jul 20, 2008
    10
    See it at an IMAX, do not miss the opening at all. The best movie this year, I am betting a clean-up at the award shows. Will be seeing it again, IMAX of course.
  98. AndreC.
    Jul 21, 2008
    10
    It is one of the greatest Batman movies ever. Heath Ledger acted Joker perfectly. I literally left the theater saying " Why so serious ? "
  99. ZohaibA.
    Jul 22, 2008
    10
    I forgot to wear diapers to the cinema.
  100. KevinG
    Jul 22, 2008
    10
    Great.Went to IMAX. stunning. I am going again.
Metascore

Universal acclaim - based on 39 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 33 out of 39
  2. Negative: 0 out of 39
  1. 100
    May be the most hopeless, despairing comic-book movie in memory. It creates a world where being a superhero is at best a double-edged sword and no triumph is likely to be anything but short-lived.
  2. Mixing bravura filmmaking with flat clichés in about equal amounts, The Dark Knight is all about dualism. Appropriately, the movie's half-inspired, half-frustrating.
  3. An action blockbuster extravaganza that's sadder than sad and never pretends otherwise.