In this world, only three things are certain: death, taxes, and… another Batman movie.

Matt Reeves’ “The Batman” has finally arrived in theaters, and with it comes a bevy of expectations and curiosity about the film’s potential to launch yet another lucrative franchise. But the question is: do we need one? In a post Christopher Nolan Bat-verse, how does this new incarnation of the Dark Knight and his cast of iconic criminals, corrupt cops, and amoral allies measure up? How will it feel for millions of fans to experience a new cinematic interpretation of a city famous for its ability to simultaneously attract and repulse us? And most importantly, does the movie have anything compelling to say about Bruce Wayne and the Batman: a character whose story we know so well, yet can’t seem to get enough of?