In the pantheon of film criticism, few voices resonate as profoundly as that of Roger Ebert. Revered for his insights and engaging prose, Ebert established himself as a titan of the industry, effectively bridging the gap between film enthusiasts and casual viewers. His reviews often offered a treasure trove of perceptive commentary that impressed both critics and audiences alike, and when it came to the iconic Batman franchise, Ebert’s perspectives stand out. He gave a perfect four-star rating to both Batman Begins (2005) and The Dark Knight (2008), highlighting them as his clear favorites among the seven Batman films he reviewed before his passing in 2013.
Ebert's admiration for these films is noteworthy, not only for his stature in the film community but also for the profound transformation of Batman presented in them. The film series started with Tim Burton's Batman (1989) and continued through several iterations, including the campy Batman & Robin and Batman Forever. However, it was Christopher Nolan’s handling of the character in the 2000s that captured Ebert’s keen interest.
While Ebert expressed disappointment with many earlier adaptations, he was wholeheartedly passionate about Nolan’s take on the caped crusader. In his review of Batman Begins, Ebert articulated his excitement, stating, “This is at last the Batman movie I’ve been waiting for.” He particularly appreciated the darker, more mature tone that echoed modern sensibilities, reflecting a Batman that was not only a hero but a character imbued with complex emotions and moral dilemmas.
Nolan's portrayal of Bruce Wayne, played notably by Christian Bale, was a source of particular commendation for Ebert. He wrote, “Bale is just right for this emerging version of Batman,” noting the actor’s transformation from his emaciated role in The Machinist to the powerful figure of Batman, suggesting an inner quality that resonated profoundly with the narrative.
In the sequel, The Dark Knight, Ebert's enthusiasm only intensified. The film showcased Heath Ledger’s iconic performance as the Joker, which Ebert deemed instrumental in elevating the film's stature. As he put it, “Batman isn’t a comic book anymore. Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight is a haunted film that leaps beyond its origins and becomes an engrossing tragedy.” Here, Ebert explored how the film transcended typical comic book storytelling, creating a more profound narrative that encapsulated the emotional experiences of its characters.
Ebert’s praise didn't stop at the leads; he commended the ensemble cast, recognizing the performances of Aaron Eckhart as Harvey Dent, Gary Oldman as James Gordon, and more, noting that even the spectacular special effects didn’t overshadow the depth of the story. In essence, he felt that Nolan had freed Batman to genuinely explore a broader spectrum of human emotion.
Even Ebert’s review of The Dark Knight Rises (2012) acknowledged its merits, despite not reaching the apex set by its predecessor. He dubbed it “an honorable finale,” awarding it a three-star review while pointing out the shortcomings of its villain and narrative clarity.
Nolan's trilogy set a new benchmark in comic book adaptations and is frequently referenced as a touchstone in superhero cinema. With Batman Begins scoring a commendable 85% and The Dark Knight even higher at 94% on Rotten Tomatoes, Ebert’s positive reception aligns closely with both popular opinion and critical consensus.
Pushing the narrative forward, Ebert's influential critiques have had a lasting impact, highlighting not just the artistic merits of superhero narratives but paving the way for a more mature approach to comic book storytelling. He not only offered fans a chance to elevate their appreciation of the genre but also encouraged filmmakers to explore richer character development within the superhero framework.
Enthusiasts of the Bat universe may find it hard to ignore the significance of these reviews when considering the legacy of Batman in cinema. Ebert’s focus on the evolution of the character through Nolan's creative lens showcases a cultural shift in how comic book heroes can be portrayed—resulting in a Batman who reflects more than just a dark vigilante, but a complex protagonist navigating a world full of moral ambiguities.
Additionally, for fans eager to delve even deeper into the world of Batman, the animated series remains a staple. As Batman: The Animated Series receives critical attention once again, its availability on platforms like Max has been a significant talking point. However, with speculation surrounding the longevity of such content on streaming services, fans are encouraged to secure their collections.
A Blu-ray box set of Batman: The Complete Animated Series is currently available on Amazon for a reduced price of $30.99, a considerable drop from its original $79.99. This comprehensive 12-disc set includes all 109 episodes of the classic 1992 animated series, two feature-length films, and the subsequent 24-episode run of The New Batman Adventures.
Collectors might also look to The Batman Adventures Omnibus and The Batman & Robin Adventures Omnibus, both of which are on sale. The former is priced at $135 (down from $150), while the latter is available for $38.90 (original price $75). These collections capture essential stories and artwork that have shaped the beloved character over the years.
As anticipation builds with Amazon's Spring sale set to begin on March 25, 2025, fans should take this opportunity to expand their Batman collections while the prices remain favorable. Whether through digital streaming or physical media, the legacy of Batman continues to thrive, perpetuated by quality storytelling and critical recognition.
