Batman Begins (2005)

Batman Begins builds so carefully to its conclusion that when it arrives you feel genuinely moved. The fear as a weapon thread pays off in a way that's earned rather than manipulative. Couldn't sleep afterward.

We watched Batman Begins together and spent an hour talking about justice vs vengeance afterward. That kind of conversation doesn't happen often. The film gives you something real to think about together.

Batman Begins deals with the making of a hero in a way that's genuinely uncomfortable at times. But that discomfort is the point. Christopher Nolan never lets you look away, and the film is better for it.

Everyone told me to watch Batman Begins for years. Finally did and instantly understood why. Christian Bale's grounded Bruce Wayne is immediately apparent. Now I'm recommending it just as loudly to everyone else.