The Dark Knight Rises The Official "What Do YOU Want in the Sequel?" Thread

[Dark Knight]

Listened to Jetts podcast and those guys actually made some valid arguments (nothing new though that has not been already said) as to why Catwoman would make sense to be added to B3.

The other intriguing thing (that has been talked about before also) is they mention how they can see Batman revealing or at least attempting to reveal his identity to Gordon in a similiar manner to what was done in the No Mans Land storyline.

I can definitely see a scene like that occuring in B3 and it would be a very powerful scene and would be great cinema.

What I REEEAAAALLY would like to see though, is a brutal, gritty, lengthy fight sequence in a MUD PIT, ala Millers' graphic novel The Dark Knight Returns. That would be GREAT cinema!

They also talked about how it would be great to see Robin Williams be cast in some role in B3 (FINALLY) whether it be a major or minor supporting role. I agree, that it would be awesome seeing him in a cameo as maybe Mad Hatter in Arkham, or Hugo Strange, maybe even the Riddler (which he was almost cast as in Batman Forever) or perhaps even in a supporting villian role as Cobblepot/Penguin as the shady underworld club owner/mob boss/arms dealer of Gotham.

 

[ALittlePush]

They also talked about how it would be great to see Robin Williams be cast in some role in B3 (FINALLY) whether it be a major or minor supporting role. I agree, that it would be awesome seeing him in a cameo as maybe Mad Hatter in Arkham, or Hugo Strange, maybe even the Riddler (which he was almost cast as in Batman Forever) or perhaps even in a supporting villian role as Cobblepot/Penguin as the shady underworld club owner/mob boss/arms dealer of Gotham.

Robin Williams as penguin- I like it.

Him or Timothy Spall for penguin.

 

[hatebox]

I wouldn't want Batman revealing his identity to Gordon. I much prefer that their dynamic to remain based on Gordon seeing Batman as a metaphorical figure, a symbol that things can get better in this terrible city.

 

[Brother Jack]

BB

Main Villain - Ras
Mob Villain - Falcone
Side Villain - Scarecrow
Cameo Villain - Zsasz

TDK

Main Villain - Joker
Mob Villain - Maroni
Side Villain - Two-Face
Cameo Villain - Scarecrow

That analogy isn't totally air-tight though. For example The Chechen and to a lesser extent Gambol were there as mob villains along with Maroni and Two-Face wasn't exactly a "side villain", at least not in the way Scarecrow was in Begins. Not to mention Ra's -- while being the main villain of BB -- wasn't actually in the movie very much. Point is, while you could probably apply that framework to Batman 3, chances are it will be different in some way, both to Begins and TDK.

 

[TheWatcher]

I want to see Black Mask,Riddler,and Catwoman. Plus Wayne Manor and the Batcave. Also more Arkham Asylum and its inmates.

 

[J.Howlett]

Dark Knight,

Yeah, that podcast put into light a few similar thoughts I had about how a third film, to complete the character arc, would need to work.

The only thing that podcast didn't address was that Catwoman wouldn't make a great LEAD villain because how does she ultimately threaten Gotham?

Remember, this series that Nolan is creating is all about Gotham too. You need another villain that threatens Gotham in order for Bruce to make the choices we think he's going to make in this final arc that completes his character at the end of the film...and this trilogy.

The podcast didn't reveal anything new but it puts into context how I think Nolan will approach his final film.

The reveal to Gordon is another thought I had and it was for a much more simpler reason than the one they gave in the podcast. My reason was that it was Gordon, in Begins, who comforted Bruce first after his parents death. I would believe that Bruce would have never forgot that.

So by the end of the film, depending on how their relationship and how well off Gotham is for Bruce to finally accept the mantle of the Bat as his destiny, I would think it would be out of respect to Gordon that he would reveal himself. It would just have great symmetry to Batman Begins if that were to happen.

 

[Two-Face]

Listened to Jetts podcast and those guys actually made some valid arguments (nothing new though that has not been already said) as to why Catwoman would make sense to be added to B3.

The other intriguing thing (that has been talked about before also) is they mention how they can see Batman revealing or at least attempting to reveal his identity to Gordon in a similiar manner to what was done in the No Mans Land storyline.

I can definitely see a scene like that occuring in B3 and it would be a very powerful scene and would be great cinema.

What I REEEAAAALLY would like to see though, is a brutal, gritty, lengthy fight sequence in a MUD PIT, ala Millers' graphic novel The Dark Knight Returns. That would be GREAT cinema!

They also talked about how it would be great to see Robin Williams be cast in some role in B3 (FINALLY) whether it be a major or minor supporting role. I agree, that it would be awesome seeing him in a cameo as maybe Mad Hatter in Arkham, or Hugo Strange, maybe even the Riddler (which he was almost cast as in Batman Forever) or perhaps even in a supporting villian role as Cobblepot/Penguin as the shady underworld club owner/mob boss/arms dealer of Gotham.

Yes! I love No Man's Land & TDKR having a scenes from GNs will be great. Only a nod to Bat-fans.

 

[The ?ion]

Bruce revealing his identity to Gordon is just one big mistake. Are memories really so short that we have already forgotten how poorly that went for Spider-Man 2 and Spider-Man 3. His I.D. being blown left and right was one of the most prominent complaints about those films. Also TDK ends with Batman being a fugitive. I don't see it making sense for Batman to retain direct contact with Gordon, let alone being chummy enough to reveal his I.D..

Also, I have to say no to Catwoman. She is a cool character, but she isn't really enough to carry a film. In most cases, she is a cat burglar. In the best cases, she is Batman's pseudo-ally. Neither of those are very dynamic for the elaborate noir world that Chris Nolan has created for this franchise.

Similarly, Riddler gets the thumbs down as well (though most speculation points toward Riddler being the top choice for the third film). I like Nigma, and he is a lovely character, but we already had Joker fill the mind-screw department. He tested Batman's resolve, detective skills and puzzle solving abilities. Seems redundant to have him do it all again.

At this point, they can either retcon the Two-Face death and explore how Harvey's downfall sends Gotham into further despair. Alternatively, they can introduce a lesser known and have a bit more freedom. I suggest Lady Shiva and Rupert Thorne. There would need to be an elaborate reason for Thorne hiring her to fulfill high profile assassinations, but it would make for a compelling piece as we watch Batman try to stop a killer who can match/best him in combat, while trying to figure out what the connection is to all of the murders. It is a bit safe as far as story telling goes, but it doesn't run as high a risk of not living up to expectations since there is no chance that Nolan will use the Joker.

 

[Dark Knight]

Dark Knight,


Remember, this series that Nolan is creating is all about Gotham too. You need another villain that threatens Gotham in order for Bruce to make the choices we think he's going to make in this final arc that completes his character at the end of the film...and this trilogy.

The podcast didn't reveal anything new but it puts into context how I think Nolan will approach his final film.

The reveal to Gordon is another thought I had and it was for a much more simpler reason than the one they gave in the podcast. My reason was that it was Gordon, in Begins, who comforted Bruce first after his parents death. I would believe that Bruce would have never forgot that.

So by the end of the film, depending on how their relationship and how well off Gotham is for Bruce to finally accept the mantle of the Bat as his destiny, I would think it would be out of respect to Gordon that he would reveal himself. It would just have great symmetry to Batman Begins if that were to happen.

I agree, that Catwoman would not be the lead villain if she winds up in B3. She will be more of the anti-hero type that crosses the line from time to time to get what she wants.

I think more than likely that LEAD villain title would go to the Riddler most likely, he is just a Nolan type of character.....with perhaps Roman Sionis/Black Masks past being tied to Selina/Catwomans past?

Regarding Batman revealing or attempting to reveal his identity to Gordon. The scene would be very powerful not just because of the trust Batman and Gordon have gained for one another, but I can see Bruce also remind Gordon of the time Gordon consoled and was there for him as a kid when his parents were murdered and how he has never forgot about that.

 

[TheWrathOfGod]

Kill off Morgan Freeman.

 

[The ?ion]

Really? I like the fact that they included Lucius Fox. It also makes more sense to have an identifiable tech guru behind Batman's equipment. After all, this is still Batman in his early years. He has the fight training and his detective skills are burgeoning, but he isn't quite up to snuff compared to the comic continuity (where Batman has been at it for a decade). I suppose they could introduce a new tech guru in the mean time, but why squander precious screen time introducing unnecessary characters?

 

[TheWrathOfGod]

There would be too many old people in the movie, Alfred is enough. Black Mask could kill Morgan Freeman. Black Mask: "Globalization these days, it's a real killer."

 

[The ?ion]

How are there too many people?

Bruce Wayne/Batman
Commissioner Gordon
Alfred Pennyworth
Riddler
Lucius Fox

Now compare that to Batman Begins

Bruce Wayne/Batman
Commissioner Gordon
Alfred Pennyworth
Ra's Al Ghul
Scarecrow
Lucius Fox
Rachel Dawes
Carmine Falcone
William Earle
Arnold Flass

Now keep in mind that I only listed major confirmed characters for the third Batman film. They may bring in new police detectives. They may have additional mobsters or minor villains. But thus far, there is hardly anyone in the film, compared to the first or second films.

 

[WhiteShoulder]

When it comes to movies...I honestly don't usually envision how they're going to turn out, cause that would set me up for disappointment. I have hopes of course and expectations, but they're usually small things. I'm also not very picky on what is what....but Batman 3 is slowly breaking the mold on these habit.

Batman is a part of my childhood, seen through cartoons and the old movies, and therefore is very special. And Batman 3 is unique to itself because it's the first movie that I've been old enough (and well versed enough in subject matter) to have expectations for.

I personally want to see the Riddler as the next villain. As much as I love Jim Carry's version of the Riddler (had lots of fun times watching Batman forever), I really want to see the serious, gritty take Nolan has to offer on the character. Cause he's offering a lot.

I also want learn what happened to Jim Gordon's family after the Two-Face incident (I heard in the comics he was divorced and I really think this would be a good time to slip that tidbit in), I want the Batmobile/Tumbler to return (though with little to no changes, I like it as it is) and of course I want the Batcave back.

Seriously though, I haven't read the comics and therefore don't have any particular story lines I'm interested in. The biggest thing I'm bias about is that I love the gritty, realistic style Nolan has too much. (Probably because it's the first time I've been able to really study and understand the work compared to another style).

And because of this....I absolutely do not want a Robin or sidekick. It would just clash with the realism. I also do not want any campy things slipped in simply for fan nods. A few subtle lines, puns, or references? Dude, go right ahead. But if it's distracting in anyway, or causes a loss of fluidity in the film: NO.

Other than that....it's all up to the directors and producers and actors.....as long as it's good and entertaining to watch I'm happy. (Although I'm kind of afraid of the idea of Johnny Deep being the Riddler. Not opposed, just afraid. I don't want to see, as the recently popular line states, "Johnny Depp as the Riddler. I want to see the Riddler." Heath was able to pull this off amazingly (I'm not good with actor names, so in fact, it wasn't even until after his death and TDK that I was able to go "I who Heath Ledger is, of course I know him. He's the Joker." ))

 

[Carnotaur3]

Similarly, Riddler gets the thumbs down as well (though most speculation points toward Riddler being the top choice for the third film). I like Nigma, and he is a lovely character, but we already had Joker fill the mind-screw department. He tested Batman's resolve, detective skills and puzzle solving abilities. Seems redundant to have him do it all again.

He didn't really test Batman's detective skills. Batman does one thing to find out who Joker was and it ended up not being him. Joker was later captured and that pretty much summed up that the Joker is the Joker and nobody else. There was no detecting in the film outside of the shattered bullet. Joker just filled Batman and everyone else's minds with half-truths.

Riddler would be a great challenge to Batman. This could be Die Hard with Vengeance meets Batman. A running out of time puzzle that weighs on Batman's mind for 3 consecutive days. Perhaps Riddler is actually someone working for the F.B.I. who is assigned over to take the pressure of capturing Batman off the police department, now Gordon has no power to help Batman except for giving him inside information.

 

[Doctor Jones]

Bruce revealing his identity to Gordon is just one big mistake. Are memories really so short that we have already forgotten how poorly that went for Spider-Man 2 and Spider-Man 3. His I.D. being blown left and right was one of the most prominent complaints about those films. Also TDK ends with Batman being a fugitive. I don't see it making sense for Batman to retain direct contact with Gordon, let alone being chummy enough to reveal his I.D..

Also, I have to say no to Catwoman. She is a cool character, but she isn't really enough to carry a film. In most cases, she is a cat burglar. In the best cases, she is Batman's pseudo-ally. Neither of those are very dynamic for the elaborate noir world that Chris Nolan has created for this franchise.

Similarly, Riddler gets the thumbs down as well (though most speculation points toward Riddler being the top choice for the third film). I like Nigma, and he is a lovely character, but we already had Joker fill the mind-screw department. He tested Batman's resolve, detective skills and puzzle solving abilities. Seems redundant to have him do it all again.

At this point, they can either retcon the Two-Face death and explore how Harvey's downfall sends Gotham into further despair. Alternatively, they can introduce a lesser known and have a bit more freedom. I suggest Lady Shiva and Rupert Thorne. There would need to be an elaborate reason for Thorne hiring her to fulfill high profile assassinations, but it would make for a compelling piece as we watch Batman try to stop a killer who can match/best him in combat, while trying to figure out what the connection is to all of the murders. It is a bit safe as far as story telling goes, but it doesn't run as high a risk of not living up to expectations since there is no chance that Nolan will use the Joker.

You do know that your ideas will probably never happen?

Spider-Man 2 delt with identity and choice, just some of the themes. You couldn't have three movies where everyone didn't know, you can only do so much for so long. Mary Jane had to find out at 2. It's just in 3 she was a total ***** about it all. She said she wanted to face the dangers with him when all she did was ***** him out.

I think Batman unmasking for Gordon would make Batman think that now that he is a fugitive, in order to gain more of his trust, he thinks revealing his identity to Gordon is the right one, but Gordon turning away and refusing is more powerful. It shows that there is more than revealing his identity. Trust doesn't mean that. Again, Bruce is still learning. He must go on another journey in this film. And I think part of that journey will deal with his relationship with Gordon. Him being a fugitive and Gordon with the GCPD will create a huge rift in their relationship, tension will happen between them.

Catwoman is the most logical choice to include in the next film. Out of all the rogues. I'm not saying to not just include her, you do need another threat. Catwoman isn't that much of a bad guy who can create mass panic and try to destroy Batman internally.

 

[The ?ion]

@Carnotaur

I mean tested them as far as detective work goes in Batman films. Just like Spider-Man has traditionally been unfunny/unwitty outside of comics (save for Spectacular Spider-Man, which really got things right), Batman has traditionally been less of a detective and more of a well equipped warrior. It is like Keaton's initial portrayal. The most detective work we got was when he figured out the chemical combination that created the Joker toxin. After that, not so much sleuthing. Joker (in TDK) at least forced Batman to think, more than fight. I know it wasn't deep detective work, but it was a start.

@Doctor Jones

Identity reveals are pretty lame to me. Especially in this case. I still see no real reason to have Gordon know his identity. He doesn't know it in the comics, so why should he know it in the films? Also, I dislike multiple villains in a plot. Although Nolan has done a pretty solid job thus far, that was only accomplished by marginalizing the rogues. For instance, BB featured Falcone, The Scarecrow, R'as and Zsas. Falcone was not the main draw, but he had the most screen time.

Similarly, TDK featured The Joker and Scarecrow, but Scarecrow was only present during the first ten minutes of the film. Why throw in too many side villains, when they could use this final film to capture a serious struggle? Also, Catwoman is a cool character. I don't even have a problem with Selina Kyle being a love interest, but honestly, she is not a movie carrying villain. She doesn't have any large and insidious designs like other Batman rogues. Who cares if she is on a burglary spree or stealing rare artifacts? The first Batman film saw Batman take down an entire covert terrorist organization that was attempting to destroy all of Gotham. Similarly, TDK saw Batman take down a psychopath who was threatening to destroy the city with paranoia. How anti-climactic would it be to watch him take down a jewel thief? No thanks.

 

[Doc Samson]

I'd like a scene reminiscent of Year one, where Gordon starts to have his suspicions that Bruce Wayne is Batman, and interviews Bruce at his mansion. Not only would it add some much needed humor to what will surely be a heavy film, it would give Bale yet another scene to show Wayne's pompous, arrogant attitude.

It makes sense that, with Batman being a fugitive, Gordon will be under some pressure to really find out who this guy is and bring him in. After Bruce saved Reese in TDK, Gordon gave that off hand remark about that being a heroic gesture. A couple more coincidental instances like that would be reason enough for Gordon to look into it. I think it would be a potentially hilarious scene much like the Birthday party in BB

 

[LightningFlash]

I want Billy Zane as Black Mask.

 

[Spider-Kurt!]

I'd like a scene reminiscent of Year one, where Gordon starts to have his suspicions that Bruce Wayne is Batman, and interviews Bruce at his mansion. Not only would it add some much needed humor to what will surely be a heavy film, it would give Bale yet another scene to show Wayne's pompous, arrogant attitude.

It makes sense that, with Batman being a fugitive, Gordon will be under some pressure to really find out who this guy is and bring him in. After Bruce saved Reese in TDK, Gordon gave that off hand remark about that being a heroic gesture. A couple more coincidental instances like that would be reason enough for Gordon to look into it. I think it would be a potentially hilarious scene much like the Birthday party in BB

Exactly!

 

[Doctor Jones]

I like that idea. That would be great and funny.

 

[Doctor Jones]

@Carnotaur

I mean tested them as far as detective work goes in Batman films. Just like Spider-Man has traditionally been unfunny/unwitty outside of comics (save for Spectacular Spider-Man, which really got things right), Batman has traditionally been less of a detective and more of a well equipped warrior. It is like Keaton's initial portrayal. The most detective work we got was when he figured out the chemical combination that created the Joker toxin. After that, not so much sleuthing. Joker (in TDK) at least forced Batman to think, more than fight. I know it wasn't deep detective work, but it was a start.

@Doctor Jones

Identity reveals are pretty lame to me. Especially in this case. I still see no real reason to have Gordon know his identity. He doesn't know it in the comics, so why should he know it in the films? Also, I dislike multiple villains in a plot. Although Nolan has done a pretty solid job thus far, that was only accomplished by marginalizing the rogues. For instance, BB featured Falcone, The Scarecrow, R'as and Zsas. Falcone was not the main draw, but he had the most screen time.

Similarly, TDK featured The Joker and Scarecrow, but Scarecrow was only present during the first ten minutes of the film. Why throw in too many side villains, when they could use this final film to capture a serious struggle? Also, Catwoman is a cool character. I don't even have a problem with Selina Kyle being a love interest, but honestly, she is not a movie carrying villain. She doesn't have any large and insidious designs like other Batman rogues. Who cares if she is on a burglary spree or stealing rare artifacts? The first Batman film saw Batman take down an entire covert terrorist organization that was attempting to destroy all of Gotham. Similarly, TDK saw Batman take down a psychopath who was threatening to destroy the city with paranoia. How anti-climactic would it be to watch him take down a jewel thief? No thanks.

Dude, I said this twice, Gordon wouldn't know his idenitity. Batman wants to, but Gordon turns, and he will never know anyway. I'm not saying the film needs to know it at all.

Exactly. Nolan handles multiple villains well. Catwoman is someone in shades of grey, who is alot like him. A costumed person. like Batman. Especially when Bruce thought he could have a normal life as just Bruce and step away from Batman. This film would have to be about Bruce realizing Batman is full time for him. Catwoman would shed light on these aspects. Think about it. It's the most logical inclusion story wise. It's much more logical than what you are saying. He doesn't have to take her down. In fact, it would provide more thematic angles. Now with Selina, it would seem kind of ****ty of her to come in when Bruce is still recovering from the death of Rachel, a woman he's known his whole life and loved her, to just come for Bruce to say, "Okay." What does that say about Bruce? He's over it like that? When Batman says to Dent he wasn't the only one who lost everything, in his voice, Bruce lost as much as Dent. It's gonna take much more than that. I can't imagine them going beyond flirtation and dialogue. It would be compex, but I'm not expecting them having a full on make out session.

It's not about anti climax at all. Bruce has been through so much as Batman and Bruce. Both sides have taken hits. And here arrives this woman in his life, much like him, who has shades of grey to her. Put it together. Plus, now that Batman is on the run, Catwoman could be mistaken for Batman by the police, leading them further into thinking Batman is murderer and thief. Conflicts could come from Gordon and Batman. Batman thinking there is more to her while Gordon doesn't believe so. Thematically, this all leads back into what Batman is. This is a great opportunity for story.

Riddler or whoever would provide more of a threat to Batman and Gotham. I know Nolan isn't just gonna use Catwoman. There does have to a larger threat I agree with. I think he can balance these things well, because both characters would tie into Bruce and Batman.

 

[thedrizzle59]

I've updated my ideas for my Batman 3 story titled Shadow of the Bat. Ive decided to attempt coming up with a twist ending for the conclusion of the movies. I felt they were right up there with Nolan's style. Any ways here it is:

First open with what appears to be a young Roman Sionis burning down his mansion while his parents are inside.

Then have Batman discover records of Roman's parents indeed burning in the fire at his old mansion.

Next show that during the same time Roman's Parents where killed, roman was alone in the streets of Gotham after his parents accidentally left him. Roman witnessed a horrible act that night. He saw the mob gun down an innocent family because they couldn't pay a loan back. When young roman sees the boy in the family shot, he becomes scarred for life. When Roman finally returns home that vary night he discover's his mansion burning down. (Use that same low angle shot you used in the opening of the film, then cut to a higher shot).

Then show that Ra's Al Ghul actually burned down Roman's Mansion when Roman was gone. (again, use the same shots with different angles from the opening scene). Ras's plan was to adopt and train Roman all along. He needed to get to Roman's fathers business to help in the mission to destroy Gotham Economically. As then adopts Roman to gain control of Romans business that was left to him under his fathers wishes.

Show Ra's telling Roman that he must act as his insurance policy in case his current plan of gassing the city didn't work. He is also told that if needed, kill his sister if she gets in the way.

All Roman wanted was to be loved and protected. His parents were neglectful and uncaring. Roman thought he had found love and protection through Ra's al Ghul, but is shown evidence by Batman that Ra's betrayed him and only used him as a tool. Roman is devastated and by this. He is talked out of his plan by batman. But Nygma will not let that happen...

The riddler is hired by Roman to keep Batman distracted while Roman and the league of shadows set the city up for destruction. Riddler distracts Batman by first learning the identity of Batman through Colman Reese. Then he frequently kidnaps various people important to Bruce and Gordon to expose each of them, as well as break down each psychologically. When Batman beats him at whits, causing riddler to fail in his plan, Nygma becomes outraged outraged at being outsmarted and wants to settle the score. He keeps Roman from pulling back the plan to destroy the city. Batman eventually captures Nygma and sends him to they newly constructed Arkham Asylum provided by Wayne Enterprises. Roman sacrifices himself to stop his plan and Nygma.

Gotham begins showing signs of improvement thanks to Wayne Enterprises, DA- Talia Head, and the absence of the mob (who where taken out by Roman and the league of shadows). Bruce is finally able to take off his mask and fight for Gotham without Batman. The End.

What do you guys think?

 

[Mr. Earle]

I'd like a scene reminiscent of Year one, where Gordon starts to have his suspicions that Bruce Wayne is Batman, and interviews Bruce at his mansion. Not only would it add some much needed humor to what will surely be a heavy film, it would give Bale yet another scene to show Wayne's pompous, arrogant attitude.

It makes sense that, with Batman being a fugitive, Gordon will be under some pressure to really find out who this guy is and bring him in. After Bruce saved Reese in TDK, Gordon gave that off hand remark about that being a heroic gesture. A couple more coincidental instances like that would be reason enough for Gordon to look into it. I think it would be a potentially hilarious scene much like the Birthday party in BB

That would be nice.

Also, Grant Morrison has stated that we'll see Gordon in the bat bunker (Dickbat's base. He isnt using the cave anymore) in a future issue. I'd like to see that in B3, but not in a way that betrays Batman's identity. Say they re fighting some bad guys and Gordon gets hit, so Batman puts him on his shoulders and they escape through the sewers. With Gordon unconscious he brings him to the cave for Alfred to treat him. Gordon wakes up and marvels at the huge cave and batman's equipment.

Lets say he didnt take him to a hospital because there's a price for his head or whatever.

 

[The ?ion]

Exactly. Nolan handles multiple villains well. Catwoman is someone in shades of grey, who is alot like him. A costumed person. like Batman. Especially when Bruce thought he could have a normal life as just Bruce and step away from Batman. This film would have to be about Bruce realizing Batman is full time for him. Catwoman would shed light on these aspects. Think about it. It's the most logical inclusion story wise. It's much more logical than what you are saying. He doesn't have to take her down. In fact, it would provide more thematic angles. Now with Selina, it would seem kind of ****ty of her to come in when Bruce is still recovering from the death of Rachel, a woman he's known his whole life and loved her, to just come for Bruce to say, "Okay." What does that say about Bruce? He's over it like that? When Batman says to Dent he wasn't the only one who lost everything, in his voice, Bruce lost as much as Dent. It's gonna take much more than that. I can't imagine them going beyond flirtation and dialogue. It would be compex, but I'm not expecting them having a full on make out session.

It's not about anti climax at all. Bruce has been through so much as Batman and Bruce. Both sides have taken hits. And here arrives this woman in his life, much like him, who has shades of grey to her. Put it together. Plus, now that Batman is on the run, Catwoman could be mistaken for Batman by the police, leading them further into thinking Batman is murderer and thief. Conflicts could come from Gordon and Batman. Batman thinking there is more to her while Gordon doesn't believe so. Thematically, this all leads back into what Batman is. This is a great opportunity for story.

Riddler or whoever would provide more of a threat to Batman and Gotham. I know Nolan isn't just gonna use Catwoman. There does have to a larger threat I agree with. I think he can balance these things well, because both characters would tie into Bruce and Batman.

Selina Kyle as the love interest. That is her defacto role. I suppose that would work well enough, but I am not sure if that is a meaningful use of her character. What I liked about Scarecrow, was the fact that even though his role was small, he was actually an important character (he created the fear toxin that was being used to drive Gotham to chaos, and was responsible for keeping Falcone's men out of prison) to the overall story. I am not sure having Catwoman complicate Bruce's romantic life is really all that important. It wouldn't be a bad element to show, but I am not sure it would be good story telling to just insert her like that. Give her a better purpose, and I wouldn't mind seeing the love aspect. But if that is all she is there for, then there are other ways to achieve that, such as a throwaway love interest or other costumed problems that draw negative attention to The Batman. Not sure if Catwoman is needed for that.