Review of The Batman by MonkeyDPoopy

Matt Reeves' The Batman (2022) is not just one of the best Batman films ever made, but arguably one of the most visually stunning and thoughtfully crafted comic book movies of all time. What makes this film so incredible is that it understands Batman on a level that many adaptations only scratch the surface of. Rather than relying on nonstop action, excessive CGI, or the typical superhero formula, Reeves delivers a dark, atmospheric detective thriller that explores the psychology of Bruce Wayne, the corruption of Gotham City, and what Batman truly represents.

First, let's start with the cinematography, which is absolutely phenomenal. Greig Fraser's work behind the camera is nothing short of breathtaking. Every frame feels intentional, the use of shadows, silhouettes, harsh lighting, and deep reds creates an atmosphere that feels both beautiful and suffocating. For once it genuinely feels like Gotham NEEDS a grown man in a bat suit to instill fear into the criminals to work towards becoming a safer city. Gotham in this film is its own character, it feels alive, like it's decaying and has completely surrendered to crime and corruption. The rain-soaked streets, the orange glow of streetlights, and the overwhelming darkness give the film a visual identity unlike anything else in the superhero genre. Even the simplest shots, like Batman slowly emerging from the shadows carry an unbelievable amount of weight. The cinematography doesn't just make the film look incredible; it actively contributes to the storytelling.

Speaking of characters, one of the best things about The Batman (2022) is the sheer aura Batman carries whenever he's on screen, and how the writing emphasizes it. Matt Reeves understands that Batman doesn't need to constantly speak, fight, or demonstrate his abilities to command attention. His presence alone is enough. Every movement feels deliberate, from the heavy footsteps of his boots to the way he silently stares at someone before responding. His interactions with the GCPD are a perfect example of this. When he arrives at the mayor's crime scene, he's surrounded by officers who clearly don't want him there, yet he walks through the room with an almost unsettling confidence. He doesn't try to justify his presence or earn anyone's approval. He simply observes, investigates, and allows his intelligence to speak for itself. Even when Commissioner Savage confronts him Batman barely reacts, maintaining that same cold, unreadable expression. There's something incredibly satisfying about watching a character who is so obviously out of place in a room full of authority figures, yet somehow feels like the most capable and intimidating person there.

Another perfect example is his interaction with the twins guarding the entrance to the Iceberg Lounge. The first time Batman approaches them, he doesn't bother with pleasantries or explanations. He simply asks for the Penguin, and when they refuse and say they will fill his suit with blood. He just responds "mine or yours?", holy aura. Batman takes no shit from anyone; hell, a cop grabbed his cowl and he immediately beat his ass in a room with 30 other cops. However; what makes these interactions so memorable is how Reeves uses repetition to indirectly establish the character's personality. When he returns later as Bruce Wayne, the entire dynamic changes. The same men who were willing to fight Batman now treat Bruce with immediate respect because of his identity and status (still aura by the way). It's such a subtle but brilliant contrast between the two sides of the character. As Batman, he commands attention through fear and physical presence; as Bruce Wayne, he commands it through the Wayne name. The fact that Pattinson can make both versions of the same person feel so different while barely changing his facial expressions is a testament to his performance. This Batman doesn't need to convince you he's intimidating. The film makes you feel it every single time he enters a room.

The performances are outstanding across the board. In examples above I've explained Pattinson brings a quiet intensity to Batman, communicating more through his eyes and body language than many actors manage with entire monologues. The scene where he sees the mayor's son sitting there after the death of his father, the thousand-yard stare tells us so much more than any flashback ever could. He still struggles and grapples with the death of his parents, and no one had to spoon feed it to you. Colin Farrell completely disappears into the role of the Penguin, I didn't even know it was him until after I watched the film. Jeffrey Wright's Gordon also deserves praise, particularly for the chemistry he shares with Batman throughout their investigation. There isn't a single bad casting in this movie.

The highlight of the film that deserves the most recognition is the detective-driven narrative. For a character literally known as the "World's Greatest Detective", Batman's investigative abilities have often taken a backseat in previous films. Here, they are central to the story. Gordon brings Batman to crime scenes, despite the backlash he will get, BECAUSE no one else can solve this. Batman is always the smartest person in the room. The Riddler's murders, cryptic messages, and elaborate puzzles create a genuinely engaging mystery that slowly exposes the corruption buried beneath Gotham's institutions. The Riddler also isn't simply another villain trying to destroy the city, he's a disturbing reflection of Batman's own obsession with vengeance. Their ideological similarities force Bruce to confront the consequences of the symbol he's created.

Don't even get me started on Michael Giacchino's score. Batman's main theme is simple, haunting, and incredibly effective. Its heavy, deliberate notes perfectly capture the feeling of an unstoppable figure emerging from the darkness. The music understands when to overwhelm the audience and when to allow silence to create tension. Combined with the exceptional sound design, particularly during the Batmobile chase, the film becomes an almost overwhelming sensory experience in the best possible way.

What I appreciate most about The Batman, however, is its commitment to its own vision. At nearly three hours long, the film takes its time establishing characters, developing its mystery, and immersing the audience in Gotham. A lot of critique I've seen is people consider its pacing slow, but I think that patience is one of its greatest strengths. The atmosphere, dialogue, and quieter moments are just as important as the action. The films lets you sit in the atmosphere and feel claustrophobic or uneasy. Nothing feels rushed simply to reach the next spectacle.

The Batman (2022) is more than a great superhero movie. It's an exceptional piece of filmmaking that just happens to feature a superhero. It's haunting, beautiful, emotionally layered, and endlessly rewatchable. For me, it's one of the most complete and artistically ambitious interpretations of Batman ever brought to the screen and probably my favorite movie I've ever watched.