Christopher Nolan’s 2012 film takes inspiration from the iconic Batman character created by Bob Kane in 1939, but their interpretations diverge significantly, reflecting the evolution of the character and storytelling across different mediums. The film embraces a grounded, realistic portrayal of Batman, emphasizing his physical limitations and the brutality of his world. This contrasts with the earlier comics, which often featured a more fantastical and campy portrayal, with gadgets, outlandish villains, and a lighter tone.

While both feature Bane as the primary antagonist, their portrayals differ vastly. The film presents Bane as a physically imposing and ruthless villain, whereas the comics depict him as more intellectually driven, relying on his superior intellect and Venom-enhanced strength.

The film emphasizes Batman as a symbol of hope and inspiration, even in his absence. This aligns with the later comics, which often explore the societal impact of the Batman mythos and its enduring legacy. However, earlier comics primarily focused on Batman as a vigilante seeking individual justice.