Morrus said:
So how does the much-criticised costume actually come across?
And I've heard some really bad things about the fight scenes. Are they as bad as they say?
I had no problems with the costume in the movie whatsoever. And, I think the main reason is because this movie is so about the *characters* as oppsed to the *costumes* (like the previous movies were, with bat-nipples, etc.) In this movie, the costume is just a tool that Bruce Wayne used to scare evil-doers, and it totally works. All the bits are explained, and it makes sense in the movie.
The fights -- well, these aren't lightsaber battles that were coreographed for 3 months and *should have had* medium- and long-shots to show the give-and take. These are brutal, quick bouts where Batman tries to take guys out as quickly as possible. They get this across quickly, in the beginning of Bruce Wayne's training... after trying to take on his instructor with his moves of various fighting styles, he's told, "It's not a dance!" -- and that's it with Batman. No need to be fancy, just get the job done.
You get the feeling that *this* Batman is a much more competent fighter than in any of the previous Batman movies, where the character relied more on technology than physical power. This Batman can kick ass. He does it quick, close and then fades back into the shadows. It's more like the kinetic close-up camera work of Bourne Identity than something like The Matrix, if that makes sense.
If you were a fan of BATMAN: YEAR ONE, you'll probably like the direction they've gone with this. There are a few Year One references, and one scene lifted right out of the book.
And if you've been hit by the Scarecrow's fear gas... DON'T LOOK AT BATMAN!!
- JB