What Makes The Batman an AMC Artisan Film
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The Caped Crusader returns to the big screen with a fresh and caliginous vision helmed by writer and director, Matt Reeves. The film’s expressionistic cinematography, captivating score and exceptional performances from a cast of eccentric characters has been recognized as an AMC Artisan Film. AMC Artisan Films encompass a broad range of themes, styles and genres, including superhero films. In 2019, AMC recognized Todd Phillips JOKER as an AMC Artisan Film which won two Academy Awards including an Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role for Joaquin Phoenix’s portrayal of Batman’s most iconic adversary. Just like JOKER, Reeves THE BATMAN advances the art of making movies.
There are several factors we consider before we give a movie the AMC Artisan Films seal. Here are just a few reasons why THE BATMAN deserves the honor.
Brings a Unique Vision and Perspective
Since his first appearance in Detective Comics #27, Batman has proven to be one of the greatest detectives on paper, however that hasn’t always been the case on the big screen. In THE BATMAN, we witness a detective utilizing his intuition, intelligence and gadgets to solve the riddles threatening the streets and homes of Gotham. Instead of retelling the origin story of the Dark Knight, Reeves set out to tell a story of young detective in the early stages of his career as that Batman. This refreshing perspective to the story allows for a deeper look into the tortured, reclusive soul of Bruce Wayne who has to confront his families past, while defining his own future.
DC Comic fans will be ecstatic knowing that Matt Reeves has been cited, saying that Batman comics “Batman: Ego”, “Batman: The Long Halloween” and “Batman: Year One” all served as influences for THE BATMAN.
Pushes Boundaries and Sparks Conversation
Action, suspense and a sense of terror, THE BATMAN has it all. Reeves carefully weaves an action-packed, detective story with a horrific twist of a psychological thriller that culminates a gritty, exhilarating and suspenseful cinematic experience. Within the story of the investigation into the Riddler, is an examination into the abuse of power by privileged political powers in the city of Gotham. The Riddler ignites a spark and war between the citizens who have been left without a voice and those believe they are above the law.
Stretches Actors Outside Their Comfort Zones
Gotham’s favorite son, Bruce Wayne is portrayed by Robert Pattinson who depicts a version of the Batman that is more of a recluse, dispirited version of the Caped Crusader compared to previous versions of the Batman. The young, inquisitive Wayne is driven purely by the case of the Riddler, shedding himself of responsibility and privileges that have been bestowed upon him from the wealth of his parents estates. Pattinson emerged from the shadows of the TWILIGHT franchise with incredible performances in films COSMOPOLIS, GOOD TIME and THE LIGHTHOUSE which was also recognized as an AMC Artisan Film.
Unites Acclaimed Casts
A tradition with the BATMAN movies is to assemble a distinguish ensemble cast of Hollywood’s finest actors. Reeves doesn’t disappoint, assembling and enticing cast that features Jeffrey Wright as Commissioner James Gordon and Andy Serkis as Alfred Pennyworth as the trusted allies of the Caped Crusader. Controlling the streets and the police of Gotham is John Turturro as Carmine Falcone and an unrecognizable Colin Farrel as the corrupt and deceiving Penguin. The mysterious and seducing Selina Kyle is played by Zoë Kravitz who brings her own signatures style to the iconic character, but it is the haunting voice of Paul Dano’s the Riddler that amplifies the terror and the emotional struggle within Pattinson’s Batman.
Features a Compelling Score
Matt Reeves partnered with composer, Michael Giacchino who has created a signature theme for the new Batman that conveys a sense of fear and hope within his beautifully composed song. Giacchino’s soundtrack envelopes you in each scene, building the intensity and the weight of the threat that our hero is confronted with as he methodically attempts to solve the case and mystery presented by the Riddler. Giacchino has experience composing soundtracks for major blockbusters including, JURASSIC WORLD, ROGUE ONE, SPIDER-MAN: HOMECOMING and STAR TREK.
As you can see, we focus on a film’s unique perspective, the incredible cast and the cinematic experience rather than a character or studio, which may be why many AMC Artisan Films go on to become award contenders, though that is not why we choose Artisan titles.
Watch Now THE BATMAN now playing