as a lifelong batman fan and avid fan of 'knight's predecessor, "batman begins" i've anticipated this film for the past year. it did not disappoint on any level. outstanding performances throughout, especially ledger, who deserves an academy award for his haunting, yet deeply fascinating portrayal of the joker. you cant take your eyes off of him. bale once again turns in a terrific performance as gotham citys' dark knight. this film has all of the elements of a great superhero movie, combined with the intensity of a modern mob film such as "the departed" or "goodfellas" along with the especially dark almost "se7en"-like tone set by director christopher nolan. Dark knight is a definate must see and one of the best movies ive seen over the last 10 years