Okay I posted a few days ago in this thread when I first saw the movie, on it's opening date and I didn't say much except that I liked it. But I didn't say why. I know plenty of people who have or haven't seen the movie think it's overrated but it is one of the few movies that can exceed all of the hype. I won't include any spoilers...
I knew the movie was going to be good from when I saw the first trailer. And I knew why, because of the Joker. It was evident from the 2 minutes of scattered scenes of the movie from the trailer that his role was the most interesting and pronounced. The Joker was the sole reason I went to see this movie, it had nothing to do with Heath Ledger the actor or his death.
The first five minutes of the movie was spectacular. There was action but not too much, and it was possibly the greatest opening scene ever. It was the perfect way to start out, to set the film in motion, I knew I would like the movie from the first five minutes, how many movies can you say that's true?
The Joker's personality was spotlighted and I immediately liked him. Heath's portrayal as the Joker made this movie amazing. He was perfect. His acting skills surpassed anything I had ever seen, this role was seemingly made for him. He paid attention to little details that had a big payoff.
For instance, it wasn't what he said, anyone can read lines from a script, it's how he said it, the expression on his face, the body language the subtle movements he made. That's what made the big impact. It wasn't Heath saying it, it was the Joker saying it. It made all the difference. He portray the Joker's psychopathic personality and lack of empathy incredibly well.
I personally love the Joker. I think everything about his character is amazing, even though he is the "bad guy". From his appearance with the make up/clothes/hair to his unusual voice he was very interesting and intriguing. His perception on society and how "amusing" it was that people made plans was something thought provoking, and I mostly agree with. Even his lack of compassion was almost acceptable. The Joker's sense of humor was dark but funny IMO. You may think I'm sick, but I rooted for the Joker during the whole movie, and would much rather Batman die than him. Speaking of which...
I hated Batman. His voice, suit, bat car/motorcycle, secret lab etc. all made the movie slightly cheesy. But without Batman there would be no Joker and thus no movie so his presence was needed, but did anyone agree they should have spent a little more time trying to modernize Batman more as they modernized the Joker? But at any rate the movie was amazing, and is not your typical superhero, comic book film. Even if you're not into Batman or superheros or villains you'll like this movie because it has a great plot, great acting and wonderful special effects.
Oh golly. 
