One of the first times when all the hype was warranted and my expectations were exceeded. Great story that can be taken on many levels - - straight hero vs. villian; but, what makes this movie great are the moral and ethical questions it raises. Don't look for happy endings and, please, don't take kiddos - - this is not a movie for pre-teens. Performances were stellar and the attention to details were terrific. Not your mother's Adam West, Michael Keaton, etc. Not your father's Cesar Romero or Jack. Heath Ledger was amazing. Just as terrific were the other performances (overshadowed for apparent reasons) - - Christian Bale, Aaron Echhart (Harvey/Two-Face was really great - - true to comic roots on the look), Gary Oldman, Michael Caine.... everyone. Did I mention I liked this - - the movie stays with you.