First look: The Dark Knight

This monsoon promises to be a dark one. Perfect for one Dark Knight.

Yup, that is the title of the new Batman film starring Christian Bale, the late Heath Ledger, Aaron Eckhart and Maggie Gyllenhaal.

Based on the fictional DC Comics character Batman, this sequel to 2005's Batman Begins, is directed by Christopher Nolan and explores Batman's fight against the Joker (played by Ledger) and his strained friendship with district attorney Harvey Dent (Eckhart).

Filmed primarily in Chicago (as was Batman Begins), and in several other locations in and outside the United States, The Dark Knight marks the return of the Joker.

Interestingly, the role attracted the attention of actors like Paul Bettany, Lachy Hulme, Adrian Brody, Steve Carell, and Robin Williams, who publicly expressed interest in the role. However, Ledger bagged the role, which he described as 'psychopathic, mass murdering, schizophrenic clown with zero empathy'.

The film will be released on July 17 in Australia, on July 18 in North America, and on July 25 in the United Kingdom.