Batman Begins (2005) is a superhero film directed by Christopher Nolan, marking the beginning of his acclaimed Dark Knight Trilogy.
The film stars Christian Bale as Bruce Wayne/Batman and features a strong supporting cast, including Michael Caine, Liam Neeson, Katie Holmes, Gary Oldman, Cillian Murphy, and Morgan Freeman. It serves as a reboot of the Batman franchise, exploring the origins of the character and his transformation into the iconic vigilante.
The narrative follows Bruce Wayne's journey from a traumatized child witnessing his parents' murder to his training and eventual return to Gotham City as Batman. After years of searching for purpose, Bruce learns the art of combat and the philosophy of fear from Ra's al Ghul, portrayed by Neeson. Upon returning to Gotham, he confronts the city's rampant corruption and crime, primarily embodied by the villain Scarecrow, played by Murphy. The film delves into themes of fear, justice, and the moral complexities of vigilantism, emphasizing Bruce's internal struggle as he seeks to protect his city.
Released on June 15, 2005, Batman Begins was well-received by both critics and audiences, grossing approximately $373.7 million worldwide against a budget of $150 million. It was praised for its darker and more realistic tone compared to previous adaptations, as well as for its character development and storytelling. The film holds an 84% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and is often credited with revitalizing the superhero genre in cinema.
Nolan's direction, combined with the film's cinematography by Wally Pfister and a compelling score by Hans Zimmer and James Newton Howard, contributed to its critical success. The film's portrayal of Batman as a complex and flawed character resonated with viewers, setting the stage for the subsequent films in the trilogy. Batman Begins is recognized not only as a significant entry in the Batman franchise but also as a landmark film that influenced the portrayal of superheroes in modern cinema.