Longtime fans may remember Tim Burton's original entry "Batman". In the film it pitted Bruce / Batman against the Joker (the infamous clown of crime). Then it was Jack Nicholson, someone many would never imagine taking the mantle of an insane character. Yet somehow Ol' Jack embraced the character, with a grin on his face.

Fast forward to several years later, and here weare with a revitalized Batman series. And a new Joker, one that will be another infamous character.

In "The Dark Knight", we see the return of several familiar faces reprising their roles. With several new ones, yet everyone fits their character depictions so well; they seem so real, solid & human. With the new "Joker's" case, in-human.. or so it would seem. But of course, there's no need to spoil the fun.. and does it deliver.

Some thought "Begins" drew out a bit long as an origins piece. In a way, it did, intentionaly. Within "The Dark Knight", it never drops the ball; but keeps on going like a spiraling roller coaster. When it is silent, there is intensity, sound & music play a vital part in this "mad musical".

Inside of the core story within TDK, it re-examines the after effects of the Scarecrow's actions; and therof a new threat, and heroism. Now is TDK a humanity piece? or a musical? that is a question for the viewer to decide.

*note from reviewer - I seriously do not understand why some bring their kids to a film like this. Some should know better.. but they don't. Does someone like that look kid friendly? Tell me.

That note aside, delivery from each key player is something for any Batman fan to behold. (and even for newbies, that joined us with Begins)
As an old writer would say "calm before the storm". This is just what "The Dark Knight" is altogether. And should not be missed by any filmgoer.