Just saw Batman Begins, very kick ass film. I was surprised to learn that

Chritian Bale is actually British, actually looking back it makes more sense when I remember his role in the movie Empire of the Sun in the 80's.

But it was a great film overall, this film tells the story of Batman better than any of the previous four films (Though I love the Michael Keaton Batmans). Its dark, compelling, and really draws you into the characters.

Gary Oldman, what can I say I love the guy, great actor, great roles, but a Bush loving conservative. It makes me feel sad seeing him on screen now. Maybe he's put down the kool aid since being pissed about getting his scenes snipped in "The Contender". Good thing I'm not an idiot like Jon Alvarez, boycotting a movie just because the actors in them don't agree with me politically.

was amazing in Batman. He had an understated intensity, and his blue collar persona is a rare feat for a big-name actor. He played it perfectly, not glamorous, and not condescending, but still appealing and intriguing.

Great film. I think Spiderman has shown that an action flick with great acting can add a level of intensity that pure special effects can't add. Batman has followed. Christian Bale, Morgan Freeman, Gary Oldman, Michael Caine, Liam Neeson, Tom Wilkinson-- you could use that cast in any serious dramatic film and look really good. No wonder Katie Holmes looked so flat. She was in way over her head with that crew.

but I have to go see it if Oldman is in it. I don't care who he supports, his talent always shines. What an incredible and underrated actor.

way versus your big explosion big fight scenes, corny catch phrases comic book films. This is a movie everyone will find something they love about it.

And Gary Oldman really is terrific in this movie, the previous poster nailed it right on the head in describing his performace as Detective Gordon.

Politics? Well, the guy's done a lot of drugs. What do you want?

There is an ongoing "making of" over at bluetights.net

http://www.bluetights.net/video_large.php?id=17

or..

http://www.bluetights.net/video_large_wm.php?id=17

this guy is dedicated to making films, and seems like a genuine caring person in real life. hes made some great movies including American Psycho (2000), Equilibrium (2002), and The Machinist (2004).
He lost 60+ lbs for the role in the Machinist, very disturbing. Im halfway through that movie and hope to see Batman Begins at imax tomorrow.

http://imdb.com/name/nm0000288/

I think it is the best of all of the Batman movies. The characters seemed more real and Bale gave an excellent performance. It was hard to get past the first few minutes though, to me he's always been that mean guy from the movie shaft.