Roman history and the caped crusader
Robert Pattinson (TheTwilight Saga, Good Time, Tenet) heads a stellar cast in this sensational new interpretation of the much loved DC comic superhero, Batman. Directed by Matt Reeves (Cloverfield, Let Me In, The Planet of the Apes franchise), The Batman also stars Zoe Kravitz (last seen in Steven Soderbergh’s Kimi), multi-talented actor and filmmaker Paul Dano (There Will Be Blood, Okja), John Turturro (Barton Fink, O Brother, Where Art Thou?) and Jeffrey Wright (Westworld). Reeves also co-writes alongside screenwriter Peter
Craig, while
Oscar-winning composer Michael Giacchino provides a decidedly mournful and grungy score. After establishing himself as Gotham City’s most feared new crime-fighting vigilante, Batman/Bruce Wayne (Pattinson, exquisite) is called upon by Commissioner Gordon (a quietly incensed Jeffrey Wright) to help solve a new case. As key political figures from the city are murdered one by one by a sadistic serial killer (Dano in scenery chewing form), the caped crusader is forced to investigate a corruption ring headed by mob boss Carmine Falcone. Meanwhile, Batman/Bruce gets a reluctant helping hand from crafty club hostess Selina Kyle (Kravitz) who is harbouring a secret of her own.
Clearly influenced by 70s anti-corruption thrillers — think Chinatown or All The President’s Men — Reeves has done a fantastic job in clearly delineating the difference between good and evil even in his most ambiguous character. Presenting Bruce Wayne as a mournful, emo-coiffed loner further differentiates this new version from its recent predecessor. Pattinson gives both a refreshing downbeat and gorgeously layered performance. It’s a treat.