It is a rare and exceptional thing, these days, to witness a film or other work of art or entertainment that actually lives up to the hype that is manufactured in order to promote it. More often than not, films are panned by critics and audiences alike when they fail to be as amazing as they are promised to be.
I tried not to set the bar too high for The Dark Knight, for precisely this reason. I didn't want to be disappointed because it was a good film, instead of a great one. I was, however, unable to resist getting caught up in the marketing mania, viral campaign, and even the alternate reality game. By the time I had pre-ordered my IMAX ticket online, I could hardly wait to see the film, and the night before going to the theatre felt like the night before Christmas does when you are still young.
Yet, with all of my expectations set to "11", The Dark Knight still managed to blow me away. The cast performs fantastically, and Nolan directs the action with a frenetic energy that Batman Begins (while still a good film) seemed to lack at times.
I suppose it is obligatory to mention Heath Ledger, but even if his tragic death had not occured, I would be heaping praise upon his performance as the Joker. I was skeptical at first, but as I began to see trailer and "sneak peek" footage of the film, I came around. I can say now that this is without a doubt not only a masterful performance, but the greatest rendition of the clown prince of crime that is ever likely to be seen.
Ledger is so charismatic as the Joker... I have never been so tempted to root for the villain.