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Batman Returns Superlative action drama gets supersized at IMAX

Batman Returns Superlative action drama gets supersized at IMAX
by Derich Mantonela - SGN A&E Writer Batman Returns, latest (and best, by far) of the movie versions of the classic American comic book series, can be experienced in overwhelming thrill-ride size and scope at IMAX at the Seattle Center. But as big in scale and impressive in special effects as this action/adventure blockbuster is, director/writer Christopher Nolan and co-writer David S. Goyer have somehow pared it down to an almost intimate human level, where characterization, motivation, intelligent plotting and pacing and emotional nuance also loom large. While with Batman Returns is certainly more (especially at IMAX), less is more too, and the two extremes are a refreshing, original mix. Only seldom does Nolans vision veer from straightforward, sincere storytelling and character study (none of the unbearably cutesy, self-conscious campiness of previous Batmans). This is a serious, often brooding, sometimes chillingly dark, version of the legend. And his actors (a stalwart cast of troopers which includes Morgan Freeman and Michael Caine in sidekick-type supporting roles and Liam Neeson as a severe misanthrope) play their parts as if they were real and actually mean something. The ham is sweet here. As for the special effects and the imposing production design elements, they are employed with surprising restraint instead of show for shows sake, they are mostly in service to plot and theme. Credit editor Lee Smith and cinematographer Wally Pfister for subtle, fast-cut phrasing of action/violence sequences which emphasizes speed and choreography over gore. A lot of money was spent but wisely so. Regarding that stalwart cast alluded to above, sure they all can act, but are there any prettier, sexier people in movies today than Christian Bale and Katie Holmes? Odd indeed, therefore, that while there is cinematic chemistry between them theres no actual sex at all, and even when we think there is finally going to be it all goes platonic in a hurry doubtless to Batmans great relief: he still hasnt found his Robin by movies end. Bale is shirtless for a while (Katie not at all), though hardly enough for most of us. But at least at IMAX his every chest hair is about six feet long. Now thats the stuff of blockbusters.