Analysis of Gary Oldman's Batman: What Did Nolan Get Wrong in the Trilogy

Shadows of Gotham pervade the Nolan Batman trilogy, casting intriguing and shadowy figures into the spotlight. However, these figures are often fleeting, obscured by the learning curve and introspection that permeate the narrative. Fans have long debated the nuances of the Nolan series, and much of the critique is centered around the portrayal of Batman, both as a character and as a protector of the streets. This article delves into the aspects where the trilogy might have faltered, bringing to light points of contention that arise from the filmmaker's vision.

Less of the 'Prime' Batman

One of the most recurring criticisms of the Nolan Batman trilogy is the lack of a continuous, competent 'Prime Batman' figure. The films are punctuated with moments that emphasize Bruce Wayne's evolution, particularly in his training and his quest for vengeance. However, this constant focus on his learning curve results in a Batman character who seems perpetually uncertain and unprepared. The argument here is that the Nolan Batman is presented as a character still in the process of maturing, leaving little room for the confident and capable Batman that fans often yearn for.

The DC Comics version of Batman often portrays the character as a well-defined protagonist with a solid plan, even during high-pressure situations. In Nolan's films, this is contrasted sharply with the idea of Batman as a rookie, albeit a highly trained one. This dynamic is most notably seen in the first film, where Batman's actions are often dictated by necessity rather than a well-thought-out strategy. This recurring theme of Batman's training is a significant departure from the comics and expectations of many long-time fans.

Batman or Simply Bruce Wayne in a Mask

The screen time allocated to Bruce Wayne, the civilian persona of Batman, is another area of contention. While there is much to commend in this approach, it can detract from the primary focus on the masked vigilante. The Nolan films explore Bruce Wayne's personal journey to become Batman, which is a worthy narrative thread. However, the excessive emphasis on Bruce Wayne as a character and the diminished focus on Batman the crime-fighter can shift the film's dynamic. This is particularly evident in the third film, where the narrative revolves heavily around Bruce's struggle with his personal demons rather than the battle against crime.

The contrast between the two personas is highlighted in films like "Batman: The Animated Series," where the flashbacks to Bruce Wayne's training and learning moments are seamlessly integrated into the narrative. Nolan’s approach, while ambitious, can be criticized for overshadowing the hero's actions and missions. The film feels like more a character study than a superhero action movie at times, which can be disappointing to fans who expect high-octane action scenes and immediate resolution to criminal threats.

Batman Letting Go: The Emotional Burden

A key aspect of Batman's character is his unwillingness to relinquish his mantle, even in the face of personal loss. Despite his status as a symbol of justice and resilience, the Nolan Batman often appears to be succumbing to his emotions. This is evident when the character is shown sitting in sulk mode or showing signs of physical limitations stemming from emotional stress.

For instance, in The Dark Knight Rises, Batman is shown as a vulnerable and traumatized figure, dwelling on personal losses rather than taking proactive steps to address ongoing crime. This narrative shift can be seen as a departure from the traditional Batman story, where he remains resolute and unwavering in the face of adversity. Critics argue that Batman's capacity for emotional detachment—especially in a city like Gotham, where crime never sleeps—is one of his most admirable traits. The portrayal of Batman in Nolan's films sometimes diminishes this aspect, leading to a character who is less synonymous with the unyielding protector that fans admire.

Batman Having Too Many Weaknesses

Another notable flaw in Nolan's portrayal of Batman is the presentation of his physical and intellectual vulnerabilities. In many of the films, Batman faces adversaries who seem almost invincible, forcing him to rely on training and technology to survive. While this approach can be thrilling, it also suggests that Batman is not as infallible as the comics or other cinematic interpretations might suggest.

For example, the scene in Gotham City Sirens where Batman is easily tripped by individuals dressed in skirts can be seen as an example of a sudden drop in plausibility. Furthermore, Batman's reliance on Lucius Fox's new gadgets can make his agilities seem more like modern technology than the mystical bat-tricks that fans often associate with Batman. The aging of Batman, exemplified in The Dark Knight Rises where he is shown as an almost infirm figure, can be seen as disconcerting for fans who are used to seeing a more robust and agile hero.

The intellectual vulnerabilities of the Batman character, such as failing to analyze betrayals and traps, add another layer of complexity. Batman is often depicted as a genius in the comics, and showing him as less perceptive can feel jarring. The portrayal of Batman as a character who occasionally falls short of his usual cleverness can make him feel less like a superhero and more like a character with fallible reasoning. This narrative choice might be seen as an attempt to humanize the character, but it can also come across as undermining the story's core tenets.

In conclusion, while the Nolan Batman trilogy is undoubtedly well-crafted and directed, there are specific aspects that might disappoint long-time fans of the character. The focus on Bruce Wayne's journey, the exploration of Batman's weaknesses, and the portrayal of an emotional Batman can occasionally detract from the grand narrative of a Gotham City guardian. Nonetheless, the films offer a nuanced and compelling look at a complex character, making them worthy of discussion and analysis.