Wooed but not wowed

When a film is promoted as “the most anticipated of the year” – even though it’s only March – you must make an effort. So, I did.

With the dawn chorus striking up as I write one of the first UK reviews of The Batman blockbuster, I have to begin with the most obvious question: is it any good?

TOP DRAW: Zoe Kravitz puts is a great performance and is excellent as Catwoman.

Those who are invested in the brand will be pleased to learn it is very good, but it's not great. It is an over-long picture that just about did enough to keep me watching, but I wasn't always fully engaged.

What we have here is Batman doing a Philip Marlow, film noir, complete with narration. Batman reads to the viewer from his diary, sharing his inner thoughts and emotions as well as explaining why he does what he does. There is plenty of action – including a terrific car chase featuring the newly designed Batmobile – and a climactic final scene that reminds us our superhero is human.

WE WANT MORE: Andy Serkis was under-used in the key support role of Alfred.

Robert Pattison, the tenth actor to don the cape on-screen, puts in a compelling performance, as does Zoe Kravitz, who is excellent as Catwoman.

Other familiar faces appear from the Gotham scrapbook, including The Penguin, The Riddler and Commissioner Gordon. A long line-up of established actors brings these roles to life in a way that is convincing and not over the top. The pick of the bunch is Jerry Wright – as Gordon – who delivers a very polished performance. The only real complaint here is that Andy Serkis’s Alfred is criminally under-used!

DOUBLE FIGURES: Pattinson is the tenth actor to play the role of Batman on the big screen. 

Overall, this is a film that looks good, feels good and has a great Michael Giacchino soundtrack. As for the plot – it centres on The Riddler, who goes on the rampage. There is a method in his madness and is given a strong motivation for his actions – as wrong as they may be. But I have to say that while I was wooed by it, I wasn't wowed by it.

This latest instalment in the Batman franchise is too long and requires the viewer to concentrate to follow the story. It is one of those films I might appreciate more on a second viewing. There will inevitably be a sequel – and, when it arrives, there's no doubt which character will be at its heart.

Andy Godfrey is Sorted's film critic and a member of the Mark Kermode Appreciation Society.