While you are aware that these are all effects, they are so well done, that you can't help suspending all knowledge of reality. John Cusak is in high form, supported by some solid acting.
The directing and cinematography were great. It was as true as two hours 33 mins. can be to the book. However, the whole thing needed to bust loose towards the end and it didn't. Without giving too much away, the passion and whirlwind at the book's end is not conveyed. The end is, indeed, disappointing. Worth seeing 2X.
Fortunately it's named the Dark Knight and youi can expect it to be a dark tale. However, the Joker shouldn't be the dark one. He's a JOKER! He should have made more jokes and pranks to live up to his namesake. Also one time putting the camera on a tripod and going left to right rapidly is enough to express chaos. It is more than enough the next times.