"The Dark Knight" is a 2008 superhero film directed by Christopher Nolan. It is the second installment in Nolan's Batman trilogy and features Christian Bale as Bruce Wayne/Batman. The film explores themes of chaos and morality as Batman faces off against the anarchistic villain Joker, played by Heath Ledger. Set in Gotham City, the story follows Batman as he teams up with Commissioner Gordon and Harvey Dent to combat crime. The Joker seeks to undermine the city's social order, leading to intense confrontations and moral dilemmas. The film received critical acclaim for its performances, direction, and complex narrative.