Warning: Spoilers Ahead!
Matt Reeves’ The Batman wowed audiences with a fresh new take on the beloved comic book vigilante. As a fan of superhero movies and an even bigger fan of Robert Pattinson, I was first in line to see it– and I mean that literally because I went to an advanced screening before the release date! With a score of 85% on the Rotten Tomatoes “Tomatometer” and copious amounts of media hype, my hopes were sky-high. Thankfully, The Batman delivered and exceeded all of my expectations. With a three-hour run time, I found myself completely submerged in the world of Gotham City by the end. From the spin on Ave Maria used in the score to the movie being set after Halloween, everything in this film had a creepy, eerie tone. I felt like I was experiencing a thriller, rather than just watching one. The plot twists were engaging; the cinematography was enchanting; the action-packed scenes were exhilarating, and the chemistry between Pattinson and Zoe Kravitz was electrifying.
Pattinson’s Batman was the token emo-twisted-edgy-ruthless-playboy the audience needed him to be. He perfectly blended both the tough side of Batman and the silent, yet brooding and traumatized side of Bruce Wayne. My one critique is that I wished the movie focused more on Wayne and gave us a deeper insight into his true personality, instead of only showcasing the Batman persona. Kravitz’s performance finally gave female viewers the Catwoman we deserved. She was powerful, confident, and heroic, using her sexuality and power to manipulate the men around her and win whatever prize she sought after. Who doesn’t love seeing a badass woman in a pink wig? The Riddler, the main villain of the movie, was clever and creepy. Enthralled by his riddles and clues, I found myself playing along and trying to solve the puzzles along with the characters in the movie.
I found the political motivations of the movie to be very timely. The election of a black-female mayor replacing the white man, the exposition of Wayne and his wealthy family’s secrets, the unveiling of corruption in government figures and elites, and the near-apocalypse of the city all felt too familiar. The movie made a clear statement about where power lies in society today vs. where it should lie. As per Batman’s fashion, he was able to bring justice to the city, but not without cost.
When you have spare time, I definitely recommend seeing The Batman in theaters. Be sure to stock up on enough buttered popcorn and milk duds to last you three hours!
Featured Image via Theguardian.com
About Stella Sarett
Stella Sarett is a sophomore writer for the Entertainment section. She is studying Art History & Communications. Her obsession with popular culture and the world of celebrities is apparent whenever you strike up a conversation with her. You can find her walking around Audobon Park or reading a Romance novel at Rue De La Course.
Stella Sarett is a sophomore writer for the Entertainment section. She is studying Art History & Communications. Her obsession with popular culture and the world of celebrities is apparent whenever you strike up a conversation with her. You can find her walking around Audobon Park or reading a Romance novel at Rue De La Course.
