Shane’s (Spoiler-Free) Movie Review: ‘The Dark Knight Rises’

The hero returns but expect the unexpected.

Knowing what I now know, may I suggest to anyone with the even the most fleeting interest in seeing this alleged finale to a most remarkable Batman trilogy that you run, don’t walk to the cinema before any secrets spoil your viewing pleasure. Believe me there are gasps, shocks, inflicted sensory drama and action scenes to rival any comic book screen adaptation ever made, don’t worry I won’t be revealing any finer details here.

Visionary Director Christopher Nolan (Inception, Memento) creates a fascinating claustrophobic approach to his series. Set eight dismal years after the chaotic events brandished by The Joker, an all new terrorist luminary ‘Bane’, emerges to overwhelm police control over Gotham City with caped crusader Batman nowhere to be found.

The remarkably orchestrated opening scene high in the sky simply sets the tone for what mind boggling moments that lay ahead. Bane is a strategist with his mercenaries by his side commandeer the underground sewers before striking at random populated locations causing absolute mayhem. Soon to be seen as the new Mad-Max, a bulked up Tom Hardy is intimidating as the sinful villain in an over-sized fur coat and a distinct menacing voice not easy to ignore.

Batman resurfaces to protect the city that since disregarded his crime fighting, tested both mentally and physically by Bane in his reign of dread, the severity is anything but cheerful. The growling Christian Bale is a solid Bruce Wayne and even better Batman, complex historic ties to the story brings up his alter ego’s past provide an interesting return from a character not seen since Batman Begins.

In an array of unique roles the large cast is littered with generations of talent. Gary Oldman as under siege Commissioner Gordon is as always brilliant. What seemed an unusual choice, Anne Hathaway shines as the mysterious Selina, thus providing probability and outcome to the reincarnated Catwoman. Stylishly old school in activity and dialogue, emulating singular twists in her tail, she adds breathtaking vigor to proceedings.

Batman is heavy on artillery, the new one man jet-chopper is a sight to behold airborne through the city streets, while the bat pod-cycle is of course a perfect mode of transportation for any beautiful woman immersed in a skin-tight black cat suit.

Watch out for Australian Ben Mendelsohn and veteran Michael Caine as loyal butler Alfred provides tender moments while a past villian briefly makes his presence known.

Adding to the misery of what deliberations Bruce Wayne is facing, economic crises looms for the billionaire and Bane seems indestructible, intent on extreme anarchy.

I could go on, but won’t, rush to see one of the best films of the year.

The Dark Knight Rises hits theaters Friday, July 20th. Click on one of our Dark Knight Rises ads to buy advance tickets!

Shane A. Bassett is a contributor for TheYoungFolks.com. Read more about him on our Partners & Contributors page.