Words of Innocence and Experience

The story of Batman has finally begun!

Similar to most superhero sagas made in recent years, “Batman Begins” kicks off with the heart wrenching event of little Bruce witnessing his parents’ death. The story goes on with how he struggles with finding his own identity and makes the difficult decision of being controlled by vengeance or compassion. As stated above, adding humanitarian elements in this particular genre of exciting action movies is nothing revolutionary. Still, “Batman Begins” manages to stand out among many others thanks to its believable, mature storytelling. No tear-jerking or provocative love scenes are abruptly inserted in the movie. Instead, the movie focuses on Bruce Wayne the person, how his personality is shaped, why he decided to be Batman, and how he copes with his two identities.

Moreover, the actors’ compelling performances contribute to the greatness of the movie. To be honest, I was at first doubtful of Christian Bale being Batman due to his not especially striking appearance. However, I am thoroughly convinced by his wonderful presentation and would now claim that he is the best actor ever to play Batman. There is a distinctive depth and mysterious temperament about Bale’s Batman. He livens the complexity in Batman’s behavior and composure and seems to have taken heed of every little nuance. I am particularly impressed by the little smile he puts on his lips at times. Sinisterness as well as intrigue really shines through the unique grin of his.

Besides Bale, both Michael Caine and Morgan Freeman play their characters extremely well and provide humor to lighten up the occasional over-seriousness. Liam Neeson is quite good as Ducard with his lean, noble profile, but his truly great height sometimes overpowers Batman. Or is the effect done deliberately? Katie Holmes’ part, compared with the brilliance of other actors, is somewhat weak as Bruce Wayne’s childhood sweetheart. But she is, for the most part, believable and true to the character.

No matter how good the story and the acting are, “Batman Begins” is an adventure movie which needs much excitement. Amazingly, the special effects and the fighting scenes are flawless. Stimulating scenes accompany the storyline throughout the movie, keeping the audience alert and interested. When seeing the movie in the theater, my mother is particularly impressed by the whole view of Gotham City, the special gear of Batman, and the thrilling action near the end of the movie, with Batman and Ducard on the fast running train; meanwhile, with Jim Gordon, a righteous officer in Gotham, attempting to blow off the drying machine that extracts the life-threatening, poisonous gas into Gotham.

In sum, “Batman Begins” rocks in every possible aspect of a superhero action movie. After watching the movie, the audience would feel not only satisfied with the entertainment the movie provides but also inspired by the highly intricate, emotive story of Bruce Wayne, Batman, businessman, and most importantly, a human being.

Highly recommended.