This comic book inspired film has become one of the most acclaimed superhero films and is known for its groundbreaking effects and one actor’s iconic performance

A ‘masterpiece’ movie which stars an actor before his untimely death will air on ITV tonight, and reviews claim it’s ‘one of the best comic book movies ever made.’

Released in 2008, The Dark Knight has a star cast including Maggie Gyllenhaal, Christian Bale and the late Heath Ledger in his final role. The film has become one of the most acclaimed superhero films and is known for its groundbreaking effects and Heath Ledger’s iconic performance.

Heath Ledger tragically passed away before the film’s release in 2008, and was posthumously awarded the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor, marking the first major acting Oscar ever for a comic book film. The Dark Knight plot focuses on Batman, Lt. Gordon, and new DA Harvey Dent as they form an alliance to dismantle Gotham’s organized crime, but their efforts are challenged by the latest criminal mastermind, the Joker.

The Joker is unleashing anarchy, forcing Batman to confront his principles as he’s forced to tread a fine line between heroism and vigilantism. The film has become known as a classic, and scores an impressive 94% on Rotten Tomatoes with rave five star reviews. One review summed it up simply as they wrote: “Best movie ever made. Period end of story, no further questions.”

Another added: “This movie is perfect, a masterpiece by all means you may ask, why so serious, well because this movie is stunning and amazing.” “More of a crime movie than a batman movie, but that’s my only complaint. This movie is one of the best comic book movies ever made,” said a third. Another posted: “One of my favorite movies of all time. In my opinion, this is the best comic book movie in my opinion. Its more of a crime drama unlike anything we’ve seen in the genre.”

Another shared: “Epic!!! One of the best movies ever made. As a comic book movie set in a real grounded setting. Easily the best! Christian bale is amazing he is Batman. And the best acting performance I’ve seen on screen heath ledger as the joker. So memorable and unforgettable. What blockbuster movies and superhero movies are all about. My top 5 favorite movie of all time.”

“The Dark Knight is one of my favorite movies ever. I love how it’s not just a superhero movie it feels real and deep,” saidanother five star review. “Heath Ledger as the Joker is amazing. He’s scary but also really smart and unpredictable. Christian Bale does a great job showing Batman’s struggles and how hard it is to do the right thing.

“The movie has great action, cool music, and a story that keeps you thinking even after it’s over. It’s a personal favorite and I watch it all the time because I believe it’s one of the greatest acting performances of all time, and one of the greatest movies of all time.” Another review urged people to make time to watch this film, as it posted: “Probably the best film I’ve ever seen. This film literally has everything, not to mention the finest acting performance I’ve ever witnessed from the late Heath Ledger. Everyone should see this film.”

The Dark Knight will air at 9pm on ITV2 on Monday 22 December.