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The Dark Knight Hits Gotham

I'm usually one for the types of indie movies that may never make it to a theater near you, but even I couldn't wait to see the new Batman installment, Dark Knight.  The black carpet premiere brought out celebrity cinephiles like Ethan Hawke, Blake Lively and Lauren Conrad, all eager to get a first look at the film, which stars Christian Bale, Maggie Gyllenhaal and Aaron Eckhart.

Dark Knight

The cast of Dark Knight poses at the much anticipated New York premiere.

Photo by Keith Bedford

The early buzz has been all about Heath Ledger, who turns in a brilliant last performance as The Joker. But rather than being somber, the premiere of the flick was a celebration of his incredible work in the film. And his co-stars are gladly using the opportunity to help pay tribute to their co-star. "He steals the movie. I'm quite happy to say that," Batman Bale told USA Today.

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Stars Christian Bale and Heath Ledger give a wickedly good performance as Batman and Joker.

Photo courtesy of Warner Bros./Everett Collection

Hype aside, is Dark Knight any good? Is it ever! I'm no Elvis Mitchell, so I'll just use a tried and true cliche and say I spent the entire two and a half hours on the edge of my seat. Christian Bale is the best Batman yet--sorry George Clooney--Maggie Gyllenhaal does a great job taking over the role of Rachel Dawes from Katie Holmes, and Aaron Eckhart--who is still leading man gorgeous even with half his face missing--rocks like you've never seen him before in the dual role of Harvey Dent/Two Face. But it really is Heath who steals the show. His Joker is both terrifying and comical and it is a performance that is not to be missed. I once interviewed Heath for In Style's Toronto Film Festival portfolio and while he was obviously uncomfortable with the whole "movie star" label, he was sweet and genuine and soulful. It's gratifying to see him on the big screen in all his glory and sad to think that it's his final bow.--Bronwyn Barnes

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The Dark Knight was entertainment at it's best! I'll admit that the Heath Ledger tragedy spurred me on more to see this movie but his performance didn't disappoint and I'm pleased to say
that the movie was great on every level. All the actors/actresses did a fantastic job! Morgan Freeman rocked!

P.S ,It was a bit too long but whose complaining?

Posted by: Catherine | July 23, 2008

What did you wear? I like it when you post pics of yourself.

Posted by: Anne | July 16, 2008

So...where was the after party? Did you get to meet any celebs?

Posted by: curious | July 16, 2008

I'd been wondering if you got to go to the premiere. Lucky you. And even luckier you that you had the opportunity to meet Heath. He was such a talented actor and it is so sad to think that we are no longer going to be able to enjoy his genius. You really paid him a touching tribute.

Posted by: party hopper addict | July 16, 2008

thank you for this -- i have been eagerly awaiting the official word from you and love the pics - especially the top one at the premiere. and i love your commentary on heath...

Posted by: nuitchaud | July 16, 2008

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