When I saw ‘Memento’ I recognized Christopher Nolan as a talented director and screenplay writer. When I saw ‘Insomnia’ he quickly became my favorite modern director. His subtle but indisputable use of color and sound to manipulate the mood of each scene is unparalleled. Add into that his clever use of metaphors and he becomes one of the most talented directors in Hollywood. So, imagine my elation when I learned he was to direct the latest film in the ‘Batman’ franchise. I eagerly waited the day it would open.

Now, having seen ‘Batman Begins’, I can positively say that it lived up to all my expectations. His direction was a little less subtle then I’ve become accustomed to, as it took a back seat to the action and the storyline. But this was definitely a Christopher Nolan film, and he easily reignites the franchise by portraying a dark man who is haunted by his childhood. I do have one gripe with his direction however, and that’s the camerawork during fight scenes. I understand the point of making batman seem like he comes out of nowhere, but the audience should never have to ask ‘what’s going on?’

But in this film, the action and the storyline take center stage. Guy Pearce, er, Christian Bale dons the cape and does quite a good job of it. He doesn’t try to play a superhero, he plays a dark human being who takes out his anger on criminals. Oscar winner (I think) Michael Caine now plays Alfred, who isn’t so much of a butler as he is a father figure who provides a tether to Bruce’s vigilantism, not forgetting to quip a bit along the way. Liam Neeson also gives a memorable role as teacher to a young Bruce Wayne, eager to join the League of Shadows. But the real scene stealer of the film goes to Gary Oldman, who demonstrates just how gifted an actor he is in his portrayal of Lt. Gordon, one of the few honest cops left in Gotham City.

How Batman…well…begins is the true enjoyment of the film. The evolution of Bruce Wayne as a human being has been largely foreign to the franchise, and one story that warrants being told. As you can expect, the film opens up relatively slowly, as there isn’t much plotline to follow. But like a tiny snowball going down a steep hill, the film gradually picks up pace, right up to a kicker of a climax.