A cinematic ‘masterpiece’ featuring an actor’s final performance before his tragic passing airs on ITV this evening, with critics hailing it as ‘one of the best comic book movies ever made. ‘.

The Dark Knight, which debuted in 2008, boasts a stellar ensemble cast including Maggie Gyllenhaal, Christian Bale and the late Heath Ledger in what would prove to be his last completed role.

This superhero epic has earned widespread critical acclaim for its revolutionary visual effects and Ledger’s unforgettable portrayal.

Heath Ledger’s life was cut short before the film reached cinemas in 2008, yet he was honoured posthumously with the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor – the first major acting Oscar ever bestowed upon a comic book adaptation.

The storyline centres on Batman, Lt. Gordon, and newly appointed DA Harvey Dent as they unite to crush Gotham’s criminal underworld, only to face their greatest challenge yet in the form of the Joker.

The Joker wreaks havoc across the city, compelling Batman to question his moral boundaries whilst walking the razor’s edge between justice and vengeance.

This cinematic tour de force has achieved legendary status, earning a remarkable 94% rating on Rotten Tomatoes alongside glowing five-star critiques.

One reviewer captured its essence perfectly: “Best movie ever made. Period end of story, no further questions.”, reports <a href=”https://www.mirror.co.uk/tv/tv-news/best-movie-ever-made-legend-36427271″ rel=”Follow” target=”_self”>the Mirror</a>.

Another fan said: “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 viewer.

A further fan 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 devotee 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,” expressed another 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 encouraged viewers to prioritise watching this masterpiece, declaring: “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.”