'Batman Begins' Commentary-An Actor’s Angle by Alex BravoHello, all. Alex Bravo here for Shvoong.com. While sitting in the
theater watching 'Batman Begins', I couldn’t help but think this feels like something I’ve already seen, but yet it’s the beginning, right? And as head-scratchingly good as 'Memento' was, wasn’t Insomnia just as dreadfully forgettable? So, here I was watching the latest Chris Nolan installment and already finding myself somewhat confounded. Now, Christian Bale was great in his turn as Master Wayne, the Caped Crusader Batman. Ever since 'American Psycho', I’ve been a fan, although somewhere
deep inside I think Batman maybe ought to be a Yankee. His performance was solid and he was very believable as an
action hero, although I was perplexed by the fact that every time he donned the tights his voice became inexplicably deeper. Bruce Wayne is a tenor, while Batman is evidently more of a bass.But Katie Holmes, on the other hand, seemed extraordinarily unremarkable, lacking that gripping and engaging leading actress quality. This movie has such an impressive cast, and that coupled with the hype machine in overdrive, and the early reviews being so positive, perhaps my own expectations were too high.The movie feels about 20 minutes too long and the pacing was slow at times, as I became anxious to just get to Gotham already, and watch Batman play with all of his wonderful toys.Which leads me to the new Batmobile, which was also a huge disappointment, as it appeared to be some svelte triangulated, Tonka truck with enormous tires; to say nothing of earlier, cooler, models that were defined by their elegant lines and that certain KA-POW pizzazz of Batman yesteryear! The concept of young Master Bruce having to overcome his worst fear was intriguing, and his horrifying encounter in the well an articulate glimpse into young Batman’s delicate psyche.There are excellent action sequences, a talented ensemble cast, and even a few good jokes too, so Batman Begins is not without some merit. This summer movie season will indubitably bring us more…more action, more drama, more excitement, in short, more of everything. So, take a deep breath America, we’re going under. For Shvoong, I’m Alex Bravo. Thanks for reading. God speed.