Having not rewatched The Dark Knight in a while, I'm inclined to say this is the better film. Heath Ledger does his to sway me towards The Dark Knight but overall I think this is better put together. Bale is definitely more at the center than in the sequel and since I greatly enjoy his presence on screen that is a good thing. Especially since he does a great job. My favourite scene might be when he rudely sends away his guests. He makes us understand that it must be done and he shows a wide range of emotions with just a simple look on his face.

Katie Holmes is definitely a low point but on the other hand the rest of the cast is so amazing that it is somewhat easily looked past. All of the supporting actors have their respective great moments, of course most notably Liam Neeson but I just love the look on Cillian Murphy's face in Arkham when he says something along the lines of "he's here". A look of pure villainous glee!