I had the same satisfaction as I did after watching 'Ironman'. I was expecting to be disappointed as I do with many sequels (ie. 'Hellboy, Raiders') but 'The Dark Knight' delivered on so many levels: action, story, acting, production value, teasers... toss in the whole 'adult themed, dark value' from the comics and it becomes a recommended movie. The director doesn't play down to the audience but rather challenges them to keep up and hold on. My only complaints are the poor choice of (plain Jane)Maggie Gyllenhal and Batman's annoying lyspe. Other than that, stellar performances all around.