The Dark Knight Rises is the 3rd Batman film from Director Christopher Nolan.
I won't get into the story of the film except to say that its is a true heroes journey.
Whether or not TDKR meets, beats, or falls short of the Avengers box office numbers...is irrelevant. TDKR is a TRUE comicbook movie come to life. That is not to say that the first two weren't just as "comicbook" movie-ish...just that this one really captures the scale and content perfectly. What do I mean by that?
First, let me say unlike the avengers it's not "cartoony". There are 1 or two scenes where the imagery is hookey and should only be scene in a comic book...only 1 or 2.
Some of the knocks on the film are story driven. Yes there are parts that seem to be a little repetitive, or drag on a little too long. Some of the visuals are over the top...the one that comes to mind is where the cops and Bane's gang charge at each other. I Felt a little put off at first but then I got it. I could see this as a comic panel. I could see this happening in the books. It all of a sudden felt real and fantasy combined in a perfect mix. Yeah some of the story elements were a bit out of place or didn't have to background to thoroughly understand motivations but those are such small things, that you shouldn't even notice them...or at least for long.
Characters:
Bale's Batman - older, softer, crippled - as Bane Puts it....he's defeated due to his success. Like I said this is a heroes journey for Batman. Not only must he face and defeat his foes...he also has to face himself. One thing I didn't particularly care for is that, there are a lot of people that know Bruce Wayne is Batman. It's Crazy.
Bane - Sadistic, but I could have used more cowbell. I was hoping for a venom induced Bane....but not dice...sorry if that's a spoiler. Over all The character is played well. I thought the voice came across pretty good and I liked the accent.
Catwoman - Stole the show. Period. it's been said that should could have her own movie...absolutely.
Notable appearance...
Martian Manhunter - listed as Capt. Jones from the Special Crimes Unit.
Notable mention...
A reference to Killer Croc
Visually stunning as always from Nolan. The acting was pretty much on point. This felt like the end and the actors, probably unintentionally, seemed to act as if this was the last hoorah.
For as long as the film is, it doesn't feel like it, for the most part. No matter what it feels like...the END IS PERFECT!!!! It's worth the price of admission. It all comes together and leaves you wanting more.