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The Dark Knight

MOVIE

The Dark Knight

Welcome to a world without rules.

2008152 min8.5/10
ActionThrillerCrime

Batman raises the stakes in his war on crime. With the help of Lt. Jim Gordon and District Attorney Harvey Dent, Batman sets out to dismantle the remaining criminal organizations that plague the streets. The partnership proves to be effective, but they soon find themselves prey to a reign of chaos unleashed by a rising criminal mastermind known to the terrified citizens of Gotham as the Joker.

STORY RECAP

What happened before The Dark Knight?

The Dark Knight Collection

This recap covers

Includes spoilers for the films listed above.

Batman Begins starts with young Bruce Wayne falling into a well, developing a fear of bats, and later witnessing his parents' murder by mugger Joe Chill. Officer Jim Gordon comforts the orphaned Bruce, and Chill is sent to prison. Years later, Chill is paroled and killed by an assassin after testifying against mafia boss Carmine Falcone. Bruce trains in combat and joins the League of Shadows, led by Ra's al Ghul, but rejects their mandate for capital punishment and escapes. He returns to Gotham to fight crime as the vigilante "Batman", using his wealth and technology to aid the police. Batman captures Dr. Jonathan Crane, who is working for Ra's al Ghul, and saves Rachel from Crane's toxin. Ra's al Ghul reveals his plan to vaporize Gotham's water supply, burns down Wayne Manor, and releases Arkham inmates into the Narrows. Batman fights and kills Ra's al Ghul on the monorail, saving the city. With Ra's al Ghul dead, Batman becomes a public hero, takes control of Wayne Enterprises, and is acknowledged by Lieutenant Gordon with the Bat-Signal. Rachel respects Bruce but refuses to be with him, leaving Bruce to continue his crusade as Batman.
Adapted from WikipediaBatman BeginsCC BY-SA 4.0

KNOW BEFORE WATCHING

A few things worth knowing first

ORGANIZATION

American Mafia

A large-scale criminal enterprise consisting of various organized crime families. These groups typically operate through hierarchical structures, controlling illegal markets and exerting influence over local economies and political systems through intimidation and corruption.

PLACE

Gotham City

A fictional, sprawling metropolis characterized by high crime rates and a dark, atmospheric urban landscape. The city serves as a central setting where complex social issues and the struggle between law enforcement and criminal elements frequently collide.

INSTITUTION

Wayne Enterprises

A massive, multi-national conglomerate that plays a central role in the city's economy. The corporation is involved in various high-tech industries, including research, development, and advanced manufacturing.