Television viewers are in for a treat tonight as one of the most celebrated films of the 21st century graces the small screen. ITV2 will broadcast Christopher Nolan's 2008 superhero epic, 'The Dark Knight,' at 9pm on Monday, 22 December. The film is renowned not only for redefining its genre but also for featuring the final and legendary performance of the late Heath Ledger.
A Legacy Forged in Performance
Released in 2008, The Dark Knight assembled a stellar cast including Christian Bale as Batman, Maggie Gyllenhaal, and Aaron Eckhart as Harvey Dent. However, it is Heath Ledger's transformative and chilling portrayal of The Joker that cemented the film's place in history. Tragically, Ledger passed away before the film's release, but his performance was posthumously honoured with the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. This marked a historic first, as it was the initial major acting Oscar awarded for a comic book adaptation.
The plot sees Batman, Lieutenant Gordon, and the new District Attorney, Harvey Dent, form an alliance to dismantle Gotham City's organised crime rings. Their efforts are violently upended by the arrival of The Joker, a criminal mastermind whose campaign of anarchic terror forces Batman to confront the very limits of his moral code, blurring the line between heroism and vigilantism.
Acclaimed as a Cinematic Masterpiece
Far from being just another superhero movie, The Dark Knight is widely praised as a gripping crime drama with profound depth. It holds an impressive 94% rating on the review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes, where it continues to garner rave reviews from audiences and critics alike.
Fans have flooded the site with superlatives, with one declaring it the 'Best movie ever made. Period end of story, no further questions.' Another review praised its grounded realism, stating, 'More of a crime movie than a batman movie... This movie is one of the best comic book movies ever made.' The consensus highlights Ledger's 'unforgettable' performance and the film's intelligent, action-packed narrative that resonates long after the credits roll.
Why You Should Tune In Tonight
For those who have yet to experience its brilliance or for fans eager to revisit it, tonight's broadcast on ITV2 offers a prime opportunity. The film's groundbreaking practical effects, haunting score, and complex themes remain as powerful today as in 2008. It stands as a testament to Ledger's extraordinary talent and Nolan's visionary direction, a combination that created a landmark piece of cinema that transcends its genre.
Whether you're drawn by the critical acclaim, the compelling story, or the chance to witness an iconic piece of film history, The Dark Knight on ITV tonight is essential viewing. Set your reminders for 9pm on ITV2 this Monday, 22 December, for what many consider a perfect film.
