Batman Begins - Every Batman Movie Reviewed and Ranked

[@kindafunny]

YO! Let’s talk about In Review. The fact that people care this much about something we do is so cool. Thank you all for being supportive. I’m going to go into more detail about all of this when I record a special Tim-led Gregway on Patreon later this week (and I’ll break this part out so everyone can access it) but we hear you. We made the changes based on feedback we heard from you guys that plot was getting in the way of good conversation. We agreed. BUT, it is clear we over corrected. We have a good vibe going with Conjuring in Review with James and Elyse so we are gonna continue that the way we’ve been doing it, but going forward the standard will be that In Review has a plot segment. It is hard to balance analysis, plot, joke podcast within podcast, “serious” ranking podcasts within podcast, and making sure no one voice is just monologuing for an excessive amount of time, but we think we have a new balance that is gonna make most people happy. Also, it is important to point out, not only are we not burned out on In Review, it is most of our favorite show to do. Anyways, again, thank you for caring, and trust me, we are listening. Dark Knight In Review is gonna slap. -Tim

[@iRadinVerse]

My opinion the biggest problem in this episode is that the podcasts within a podcast are getting out of hand, they're not funny anymore they're just distracting.

[@henreebee6561]

@@iRadinVerse I think they’re funny, but I do miss the plot segments. Glad to hear they’re going to try and balance everything.

[@seancast24]

This sounds great! Really looking forward to TDK

[@mabsali8770]

Content Creators who take in feedback and act on it for the best possible outcome for everyone. Thats why I love you guys. Keep up the amazing work!

[@R.yaz_91]

Nice one mate can't wait 👍

[@WhyCantWeBreath]

The plot made "...in review" special compared to other KZbinrs who review movies, some time I rewatch old "in review" over the movie just to hear you guys go over the plot. It also focus the podcast better then just jump from point to point Please bring it back

[@nikojjjj]

I second this!!

[@tapirodaniel1994]

Totally agree

[@HM-yk7fg]

That requires too much effort apparently

[@RossLeyshon]

YES

[@Kukamunga30]

I would sacrifice all the podcasts within the podcasts for us to get the plot back!! This movie deserved a plot recap!!!

[@Cooplord564]

Tim must have cancelled the plot.

[@RossLeyshon]

YES

[@Rhahdhdn]

I really miss the plot synopsis

[@KalebKoho]

Please bring back the plot. It was always my favorite part of In Review and made these stand out as being even more special from other KZbin review show

[@reflectionist]

No Future Spoilers, but there... IS... A Lazarus Pit in The Dark Knight Trilogy. You know, a pit where men are thrown in, to suffer and die, and to rise from the darkness, because sometimes, the Pit sends something back.

[@CheefChaos]

And now with a convenient CNN cable tv connecton

[@MatthewNovak]

Woah... I've watched Rises so many times, but I never realized that. So cool!

[@reflectionist]

@@CheefChaos lol, yeah. Convenient as the other technology that rich people have lying around just waiting to be taken by Dagget or Selina or Bane! But then again, if you see the roof of that place, it probably gets great signal from satellite TV. Hell, it would be hilarious if they had a coat hanger wire just tied with aluminum foil from the TV to one of the bars like the whole prison becomes an antenna. That chiropractor dude usually tunes that shit. In just the same way.

[@nicktiznado8492]

This movie really does feel timeless, it is that damn good.

[@CameronKen]

Man, I get that we're not always going to have the plot every episode but I'm really not a fan of having ranking segments for Batman, his suit, his vehicle, his sidekick, Gordon, the villains, the movies in this franchise, and all the Nolan movies. The ridiculous segments is a staple of In Review but it used to be things like "Wiggin Out" where at least the type of conversation was different than voting on placements within lists that grow every week. It can get especially annoying when it interrupts the flow of a thoughtful conversation. It's funny whenever a new "podcast within a podcast" is introduced but the whole joke has always been how absurd and unnecessary it is to have individual "podcasts" for such niche, specific things. Too much of it personally ruins it for me. Without the plot it doesn't feel like the show has a format other than jumping between these very similar half-joke segments. Again, I know they don't seem to enjoy doing the plot anymore but I just don't think all these ranking segments are what should be so much of the show. Conjuring In Review has had a better balance even without the plot, in my opinion.

[@CorridorJ]

What happened to you guys doing the plot?!? That’s my favourite part guys 😩

[@denzelbarrrientos]

Same, I'm sad they just stopped doing the plot recap

[@watermelonslipstream5467]

I don't know why they don't get nick to do it now for all of them, I don't know why (i do) greg calls the shots for in review when he just picks and chooses which franchises he does, sorry bro you USED to be the plot guy. #Nickforplots

[@rakino4418]

@@denzelbarrrientos pretty sure they did it for the 1960s Batman

[@christianvalenzuela7733]

I think it just depends on the flow of the conversation and if they're feeling it or not but yeah I definetly miss the plot recaps too

[@JasperHayward]

Interesting, my least favourite part was the full plot recap. I prefer without

[@reflectionist]

5:35 "Your compassion is a weakness your enemies will not share." "That's why it's so important; it separates us from them."

[@R.yaz_91]

Man I don't like the structure of these in-reviews of late, I mean I really enjoy the banter that's what's great about these reviews. But adding more segments just throws the flow of the podcast especially when someone has something interesting to say about the movie. Tim didn't even get to the trivia. As for the plot either do it or don't, commit to one it just seems like you guys do it when you feel like it now. Your old postcasts like the Lord of the rings in-review are more structured and easier to listen to as an audio listener.

[@brandymills1278]

I agree completely. Last week was a return to form with them going through the plot of Catwoman. In the past the worst movies ended up being the best in-reviews because of the absurd plot summary. These rankings might be fun to record and require less focus but the rewatchability plummets. I've listened to the X Men in-review at least 4 times now because they're hilarious. There's running jokes throughout and seemed like classic Kinda Funny gold. I know they're not in the studio anymore and that might effect their chemistry but it's a shame that Greg's back for Batman but doesn't do the plot. For me its disappointing.

[@Garotte14]

@@brandymills1278 Highly disappointing!

[@Baytuh]

please bring back the plot.

[@griffinmayhew9466]

Please do the plot again!

[@jtaylor082008]

Bring back the plot recap. Miss going from scene to scene

[@lobolink2772]

Dude, 2020 is depressing enough do you really need to take the plot away from us.. such a let down every time

[@Kyle_Noronha]

BRING BACK THE PLOT, BRING BACK THE PLOT, BRING BACK THE PLOT

[@K_Rob]

Batman Begins did not influence Casino Royale as it was being made as this film released. It is well known that the Bourne franchise altered the tone of James Bond.

[@MJ-ip7oj]

Exactly

[@vinnybastos]

Thank you!

[@joehaley1147]

When they did Casino Royale in Review I remember them saying the Mission Impossible movies being an influence on it; but M:I 3 came out a year after CR, and I don't really think M:I 2 was much of an influence on it lol

[@thedefinitionisthis]

Bourne's influence was definitely a stylistic influence, but the concept of going back to square one & jettisoning established continuity and starting fresh was definitely inspired by "Begins". Technically, we can attribute the concept of "rebooting" popular franchises to "Begins", as that was the first SUCCESSFUL movie to cut ties with a previously successful franchise, and do it's own thing.

[@K_Rob]

@@thedefinitionisthis yes I agree Begins influenced the industry but it didn’t influence Bond. Casino Royale is based on the origin novel of the same name. The foundation was already there to show how Bond became Bond. Casino Royale was written in 2004 and heavily rewritten when the director asked to do action scenes like Jason Bourne. Regardless what I’m saying is two films made at the same time can’t influence each other it’s not possible or how productions work.

[@AlexLove631]

In terms of a live action Batman, this is it right here! It’s like 99% perfect to me (I think the “I won’t kill you, but I don’t have to save you” is very questionable). Tho I love how Nolan does a full-on character piece on Bruce Wayne (and his supporting cast) Nolan is a perfect example that you can take some liberties (Rachel helping Bruce realize the difference between justice and revenge) while still remaining faithful. The score, the writing, and the acting are all fantastic. This movie did for Batman what 2002 Spider-Man did for Spidey, where it’s clear that this is made by people who just love and are passionate about the character. You feel it in every line, every note, and every frame. Here’s hoping Matt Reeves (an outstanding director) nails it too.

[@Garotte14]

Gotta stop completely skipping out on the plot synopsis. It’s literally the one thing that separates this from other reviews. If Greg is gonna just ignore, then hand the reins to Nick. He does a great job too. I’m sure I’m not the only one disappointed in the abandonment of that part of the show.

[@henreebee6561]

FINALLY we’re getting to the GOOD Batmans! 👍

[@ericksanchez2496]

I am missing the plot review. Seems more structured with it.

[@PanteomTV]

While I think the different podcasts within podcasts are very funny, I think investing more of that time on doing the plot would be better. I understand skipping it for bad movies like Catwoman, but I feel you lose so many good moments to discuss. Even more so with the Nolan Trilogy. Still keep up the good work guys, cant wait for next week.

[@niceblight]

No plot recap makes In Review an unenjoyable jumbled mess that's a struggle to get through. Disappointing content, unfortunately.

[@DoubleO7-11]

0:50 Kevin clearly got some of that laughing gas from Mask of the Phantasm 😂"hahahahha....ohhhh no" 🤣

[@vinnybastos]

When I think I'm finally fed up with the "podcasts within podcasts" we get the best one yet... Gonzo for Gordo needs T-shirts now!!

[@MatthewNovak]

This is my favorite movie of all time. So glad they're finally doing a video on it!

[@brandonfoster2793]

What happened to the plot recap?? That's what makes In Review so good. This movie deserved a plot recap and the Dark Knight definitely does... hopefully they get back on it.

[@christopherwilliams8232]

It was fine, and appreaciate it. Its just, Nick has such a natural comic timing, a real talent, that when applied to retelling the plot elevated the content. Its like rewatching the movies with your mates, great for lay overs, flights etc. The dynamic between the 4 seemed better on Bond, Potter etc. Greg seemed like he didnt want to be there, and weirdly not into it when he loves DC. Yet dominated the conversation. Tim said BCU was their golden goose in Episode 1, why havent they given it the love needed? Their viewer numbers would be sky high for Nolan Batman films, especially with millenials. Still great though.

[@RonnyKeil]

The old in reviews were much better. Without the plot there is to much shit chat, and not enough actual content. You guys had the perfect in review formula but you kinda jumped the shark. Saying this as a fan.

[@reflectionist]

Everytime I hear the line, "Tell them that joke you know." I imagine Alfred going back in with all those socialites, calling up everybody's attention in a very poignant way, and then saying, "I took a Viagra but it got stuck in my throat, and I've had a stiff neck for hours."

[@joehaley1147]

"If you have an issue... here's a tissue."

[@GingerBeeff]

He’s his Fasha

[@RJM618]

These are bad without the plot recap.

[@luciddre4m]

Thank you Nick for mentioning the choreography because it always stood out to me how much like Batman this movie really feels when it comes to the combat and action sequences.

[@seancast24]

Just started watching, hoping they do the plot for this one. Loved it in Catwoman... needs to be in all the in-review episodes.

[@TyranBatten]

Oof.

[@MESSEDUPMELON]

What scares me is that in 2ish years when The Batman comes out, we will have to live through all these podcasts within a podcasts

[@MikeSW]

The 4k discs for the Burton era movies are INSANELY good looking. Was surprised to see Batman Begins fall short of the picture quality of that earlier stuff. I highly recommend picking up Batman, Batman Returns, Batman Forever and Batman and Robin on 4K Bluray if you enjoy those movies.

[@mjspresents]

"I hear he drives a Honda!" This is the fucking best In Review hands down!!! 😂😂😂 I think MCU and Nolan were top of the line-- Batman Begins in Review is the funniest shit!!!

[@ofcrgry]

18:29 Headlights are not only off; the engine goes very comparatively quiet. Cooler than it looks IRL because first in normal circumstances thats a very dangerous situation to be in but also second Batman effectively turns this situation around and takes advantage of it. All those cases when we say "holy fak that car came out of nowhere"? That's the Batmobile inside the "nowhere" in a semi-realistic scenario.

[@KamixSam]

These movies had a message that resonated with me so much. Everyone can be a hero. And idk, I love that shit…

[@jeremyz4207]

58:25 I thought I was prepared for anything, but he somehow still caught me off guard with the visual aid.

[@kraigvandole2152]

This review was like descending into a new circle of hell every time there was another segment being brought up. And I loved it.

[@MikeOlsen12]

Nolan really made some masterpieces here, I liked Batman but these films made me really appreciate Batman even more. I think The Batman will take #1 when it eventually comes out but that movie would never exist without these films. Also Kevin and his damn ice! Also also I thought Nicks goal was to be a manager at a Target?

[@josevelajr]

When I watched it for the first time in theaters it was such a breath of fresh air. I remember thinking that finally, someone said "Let's take this character seriously instead of treating him like a cartoon."

[@dorukevcim7578]

Haven't seen Nolan in Review yet but Memento is my favorite movie of all time I should watch that

[@jvp117]

I LOVE this movie, Liam Neeson chews scenery like no other and it's glorious! Been looking forward to this review!

[@alexberntsson2981]

The in review series is falling of a cliff, you guys are alot better than this

[@McCoy97]

“Its not who I am underneath, its what I do that defines me.” Was my senior yearbook quote.

[@gameboypunk660]

Saw this masterpiece in theater and it ages like a fine wine better with every viewing.

[@henreebee6561]

Fun fact: for the production design of The Narrows in this movie- which Nick said he didn’t care for at 1:18:00- Chris Nolan used a Chinese settlement called Kowloon the Walled City as inspiration. Kowloon also inspired the look of the original Blade Runner. Look this place up, it was fascinating- a unique anomaly in human history. A little info for those who are curious: Kowloon was a politically neutral zone that existed for almost 100 years in China (from 1898-1994). Technically the British had jurisdiction, but laws weren’t really enforced in this particular area, so the Chinese mafia basically ran the whole settlement. People came to Kowloon to escape the Chinese police or government, because they had no jurisdiction there. Over time, the settlement rose higher and higher, with apartments being stacked on top of each other until the whole settlement was around 14 stories high, and with the footprint of about five football fields. At its peak, the city’s population grew to about 50,000 which is a population density of 3.2 million people/ sq mi. For comparison, the city with the highest population density in the United States is Manhattan, which has 27,000 people/ sq mi. On average, each person had about 40sq ft (6.3ft x 6.3ft) to themselves. The apartments units were stacked so densely that sunlight couldn’t get through to street level, so neon and fluorescent lights were used to light up the lower levels, even on a sunny day. This is why Kowloon was known as the “City of Darkness.” Seriously, look this place up. There’s video of people walking through Kowloon on KZbin in the 90s before it was demolished, and you can clearly see how it inspired Blade Runner, and countless other dystopian or futuristic cities in media, including The Narrows in Batman Begins. Really cool.

[@henreebee6561]

Here are some documentaries with footage from inside Kowloon for anyone interested. kzbin.info/www/bejne/paC0m3SPf7Zgrq8 kzbin.info/www/bejne/iV7Vm2ujbLimpdk

[@Youtherwillis]

37:12 Wait, wasn't Lucius fox being sarcastic when he said "anything but a straight shot?" He was joking and saying that it wasn't bullet proof and all bullets travel straight hence the joke...that's how I have always received the line?

[@xizor1d]

All of the Batmobile, Gadget critiques to me all seem that they go back to the point that most of Batman's stuff in this is prototypes. Also he and Lucius don't have a close relationship yet like they do in the Dark Knight. So Bruce is taking all this halfway done projects and working on then himself in an unfinished Bat cave. The concept of Batman is also a work in progress as well, so he is learning how to be Batman in the setting of Gotham while learning to use his Gadgets as well. I thought all that made for a fantastic origin story. Where as a Spiderman might miss a Web Swing and land in a comedic fashion, Batman might have to get out of a jam with tools that aren't battle tested yet.

[@AlanHoey86]

My most rewatched film of the last 15 years easily. It's such a perfect comic book origin film for me.

[@ImJmacc]

YES ANOTHER IN REVIEW! You guys are honestly the best! I’m always excited to see new episodes of your shows! Every time I listen or watch I am dying of laughter! I appreciate all the work you guys put out! Keep up the amazing work, I hope everyone is safe and well!

[@luciddre4m]

We need a plot, but it doesn't have to be so granular lol. Greg's memory is insane when recounting it! Looking forward to TDK

[@guilhermepgf1249]

this series is descending into madness and im here for it

[@darkhawk5]

I lauged so hard when Andy mentioned Wings Plus. I live a block away from the resturant, and my girlfriends go to is the Spicy Lemon Pepper wings xD

[@gavindecroce9168]

I got to say I don’t think this movie gets enough love. I feel like people only ever talk about the sequels but this one is great too. And the bat suit is way better than I remember. I admit that it can look wonky in stills but Nolan chooses the right angles to film it at and it looks pretty good in motion.

[@RumbleBee1102]

I know it's part of DCEU in review, but I'd love to hear where the Batfleck stuff sits on all their ratings like batmobile, batsuit, Alfred, bat man. It'd be interesting

[@TheBelaidKL]

I loved this on first viewing, it felt like a nice coupling with the Raimi Spidey films at the time My bro fell asleep when we watched this in cinema and hasn't seen it since, hearing this I feel he should go again for sure

[@igpx07]

I think pumpkins should always sponsor Kinda Funny shows... MMMmmm...pumpkins!

[@TheRealGarate]

I'm sure chat answered when live, but Gordon is in Phantasm. He refuses to believe batman is killing people and walks out when Gotham PD is planning on arresting batman

[@niconicovalencia]

Plot demands aside, I thoroughly enjoyed this review. I think every In-review going forward should be at least 2 hours long. I do hope you guys do the plot for the masterpiece that is The Dark Knight. 😉

[@mjspresents]

"What about to the League of Butlers?" 😂😂😂

[@LateGreatHenry]

Fun fact: Christian Bale and Katie Holmes are only 5 years apart, 31 and 26 respectively, in Batman Begins. Christian Bale seems to just have one of those faces, an idea you might agree with when you realize that Bale was only 25 in American Psycho.

[@christophersouthorn6963]

How about a Nick Scarpino calendar where he spends a whole year getting jacked, starting in January, so we can see the progress month after month on the calendar?

[@WobbleWobbleJay]

The In review multiverse has crossed streams with Nolan in review and Batman in review!

[@preyingocelotgames4397]

I remember coming out of the screen feeling so pleasantly surprised

[@IronicShenaniganz]

Hey KF crew, I just wanted to pop in and share some thoughts. I’m confused by the lack of a plot recap, especially when one was done for Catwoman (really funny episode). If I’m reading the virtual room correctly, seems like a lot of people are tired, worn out and we’re only just entering November (next gen baby!!). Can I suggest you guys make a decision about a plot recap before cameras go live, and then share up front your decision? I think that might help set expectations for myself and other best friends. Thanks to everyone at KF and keep it up, you’re crushing it!

[@lourow1993]

Nick “buzz killington” scarpino

[@batchild27]

I always took "straight shot" as a sniper or high caliber bullet.

[@m1lkb0xx]

As much as I love dark knight what makes me want to choose Begins over that is because this was an origin story we’ve never explored before along with characters and villains that have never been introduced

[@slappydoodle]

Awwww snapper whappers Been waiting for this

[@SaintRoam]

Now I want a Liam Neeson universe in review! Just for a Greg plot recap of Taken 😂

[@jakenash7420]

Guys I'm sorry but this format isn't working, please, rein Greg in, recap the movie, rank the villains, rank the movies. That formula has worked for years. I'm gutted that the recap has been replaced with all these dumb nonsensical segments.

[@NathanCarterVids]

Maybe it's cause I just finished watching the halo playthrough, but is there some tension between Greg and Andy? Not trying to start shit, just seems like Greg's going a little hard on Andy, then Andy goes quiet at times. Digging the episode, though I do miss the plot recaps (maybe they get to it, only halfway through)

[@MikeSW]

Enjoyed revisiting this one quite a bit. I'm in a similar camp as Andy and Tim where I wasn't wowed initially by this in theatres. I wanted to see more Batman and the movie seemed to have very little of that. Nowadays I appreciate it a great deal more, but I do have my issues. The biggest one is with the editing. The whole movie teeters on being a montage. There are very few scenes that are given a chance to breathe before we cut away to something else. I can't empathize with the characters at the pace the movie moves at. Because of that - in classic Nolan fashion - everything becomes very factual "This event took place, these characters took part in it, moving on..." The performances aren't awful or anything it really is mostly the editing causing this hiccup for me ( though there are some spotty things here and there like Bruces relationship with Rachel, the writing and direction doesn't work for me, they don't seem to really have much going on). Speaking of performances though, Bale hits the right notes for Bruce Wayne and Batman - even if he is laying down those notes rather thick. I think he is the best Bruce/Batman out of the bunch. I'd rank it... 1. Bale 2. Keaton 3. Clooney 4. West 5. Kilmer

[@ofcrgry]

"Scarecrow is not a top tier bad guy." After Arkham Knight, given his last blow in that game, he certainly has become one.

[@reflectionist]

I hope we talk about how much Andy looks like the maitre'd of the hotel that Bruce buys.

[@rickyticky7221]

Tim Nailed it can’t believe we live in a world where Nolan made 3 Batman movies

[@Joshiesgotagun]

Crime never wins when Batman Begins.

[@Mike_L.]

Best line of the movie right there

[@Joshiesgotagun]

@@Mike_L. I don't recall that being from the movie. I remember it from a batman begins toy commercial.

[@usedfuzzbox]

This and the two sequels are right up there for me, great super hero movies, excellent batman movies. Paved the way for marvel :D

[@_JohnC_]

I kind of agree with Nick about the very end with the Joker card (though I don't have an issue with it), it does feel like a mid credit MCU scene to me

[@tristanmayer5373]

Nick: Batman doesn't kill In a review for a movie where Batman kills.

[@ItsGregKon]

I love the chaos of the last few episodes. More podcasts within podcasts!

[@christhomas1806]

*Clears throat* Review the Blade trilogy please 🥺

[@Sam-jv6fb]

Please bring back the plots. At least for the last 2 since you actually enjoyed them and know them. The plot is the best part and allows you guys to hit moments and discuss certain stuff

[@josephyoussef3406]

I was fucking eating at 55:58 and almost died

[@vingrier87]

So after Batman Begins. I know they're doing The Dark Knight and the Dark Knight Returns. I'm assuming they're doing Joker. What's the final movie that they're doing? Are they doing Batman The Killing Joke?

[@besighyawn]

Dark Knight is probably the better movie, but Batman Begins is my favorite Batman movie. I have a hard time rewatching superhero origin stories, but Bruce's journey is never not dull to me

[@the1don255]

I watched this again for the review. It has been a long time I remember it being good ... over the years I have thought Ben Aflect (although in sub par films)was the best on scene Batman. Yep, got that wrong. This film still holds up and is near perfect ...

[@isaiahyinko7182]

It is. I was 6 years old when it came out. How about you?

[@noelvaldez96]

They wanted Katie Holmes back, but she decided to do Mad Money instead of The Dark Knight which is a fascinatingly bad choice. Lol some people speculated that she wasn’t asked back and was just not asked to come back, but she says she decided to not come back.

[@DanielHodder7]

They said Batman couldn’t take a “straight shot”. Didn’t Fox say “Spray shot”? Like an assault weapon?

[@axeraider21]

Yah know... Nick didn't need to apologize. He was lovingly harsh.

[@MikeSW]

"The League of Shadows is not an organization, it's an idea!"

[@bonejanglz]

It's 2024 and I'm watching all the batman movies again. That means I gotta watch the In Review again

[@bonejanglz]

The temptation to tweet 8.5 without context to Andy in reference to scoring Tim's ad read transition.

[@mana66777]

Bring back the plot!

[@henreebee6561]

“Is naht ah bloody DABUL!!”

[@RoyJoeJones]

So damn hype for TDK in review

[@8bitdee]

It's not murder because Rha's planned to die. He wasn't gonna jump out the train the last minute and fly away, he was full on radical suicide terrorist mode. Even if he had planned to jump off, the whole microwave plan that's suppose to kill everyone in Gotham was gonna kill him too. He had no plan to come out of it alive. Rha's chose to die for his ideology. Batman let him die for it. He didn't commit murder.

[@starman69]

The Prestige is based on a novel from 1995

[@AlexRider589]

Does Nick know that ring lights are cheap and he could have that ring light photo now?