It seems that with each new film version of Batman, they get closer and closer to what the character is really supposed to be about. The 1960's version with Adam West was full of camp, The more recent version with Michael Keaton/Val Kilmer/George Clooney sharing the mantle was still comic booky rather than a true representation. With the newest films starring Christian Bale, Batman is visualized as he really is supposed to be: a superhero that rises to the occasion after witnessing his parents brutally murdered before his childhood eyes. He is a dark vigilante out to do what needs to be done to stop the most evil of villains, whether they be mobsters, cat burglers, or supervillains.

At the conclusion of the first film in the series, Batman Begins, the Joker is on the loose and is wreaking havoc on Gotham City. Bruce Wayne and his faithful butler Alfred were recovering from the destruction of Wayne Manor and the Batcave that hides beneath.

With Heath Ledger's performance, the Joker takes on his rightful image as a true maniac willing to kill, maim and destroy whatever he wants just for fun. You see, he doesn't do it for many or revenge. Ledger does an incredible job with the role, and I can see why some are discussing Oscar possibilities for it.

We are also introduced to Harvey Dent. Those familiar with Batman history will not be surprised by what happens to him, but his story is interesting all the same. He is the new district attorney in town with the hopes of cleaning up the streets with the help of Bruce's true love Rachel. The problem is, there is no shortage of corruption in the government of the city or the police department. The mafia still is surviving even though it lost its head in the previous film. But like the hydra of Greek mythology, it has only popped back with more heads. And of course, there is the Joker, who pretty much brings the whole city to its knees.

There is a serious look at the idea of what kind of hero Gotham needs. Is it a man who needs to do what must be done to get the job done even if it is dark (Batman) or is a true white knight?

There is no shortage of action and violence, and the script does a great job of interweaving no shortage of subplots while preventing them from becoming confusing or making the film seem like it is overwhelming. I loved it, though I would not suggest watching this if you are at all down or you will walk away feeling totally depressed. The film shows the dark underbelly of both Gotham and mankind.