Pure Power

Su-30 MKI of the Indian Air Force on full afterburner.

Photo courtesy: Mountain Home AFB, USAF

Review: The Dark Knight

A starless night in Gotham city. The camera swoops in on the skyscrapers. It then zooms in on a lonely caped figure standing atop a building. It’s an eerie sight, a little despondent maybe. But there’s a sense of power there. And that captures the essence of The Dark Knight. It is possibly one of the best movies based on a comic book character that I have seen. Ever.
The movie is a powerful crime thriller and one that keeps the viewer wanting for more throughout. Each aspect of the movie has its strong points. The personal angst of Batman. The fear on the streets of Gotham City. The choices each character has to make. And of course the Joker.
A lot has already been said about the magnificent part played by Heath Ledger and the tragedy that followed. While all of that is true, I would like to add a little to it. I have sat through horror movies without batting an eyelid. But it’s been a long time since a bad-guy has radiated so much evil. The Joker redefines the word menacing and almost every scene does send a shiver down ones spine.
Before watching this movie I would recommend watching ‘Batman Begins’ to appreciate the movie in its entirety. The Dark Knight is not a children‘s superhero movie. It is not a corny romance like the Spiderman series has become. It is a very well thought out movie which begs to be taken seriously. And makes one ponder over all the facets of the plot. It is truly a dark movie. But watch carefully and you might spot the silver lining.