After the big press screening in Los Angeles this weekend, all kinds of people are voicing their opinions of The Dark Knight.

I’m only looking at stuff that doesn’t talk about what happens in the film.

For example, don’t read the Rolling Stone review, because I’ve read that it blows one of the big surprises in the film.

Foolish! And more than a little dastardly, to be honest.

But I read Peter Sciretta’s excellent /Film every day and I generally agree with him; he’s got a really cool and classy operation going on over there.

Peter got to attend the press screening with writer, director and epic comic book nerd Kevin Smith.

They both loved it.

Peter says:

Last night was EPIC. I had one of those movie experiences that only happens once in a long long time, where you leave the theater completely blown away by what you just experienced. Folks, this isn’t hype – The Dark Knight is a movie will destroy your expectations.

And then he includes a link to Kevin Smith’s comments, which go a little something like this:

Without giving anything away, this is an epic film (and trust me: based on the sheer size and scope of the visuals and storytelling, that’s not an overstatement). It’s the “Godfather II” of comic book films and three times more earnest than “Batman Begins” (and fuck, was that an earnest film). Easily the most adult comic book film ever made. Heath Ledger didn’t so much give a performance as he disappeared completely into the role; I know I’m not the first to suggest this, but he’ll likely get at least an Oscar nod (if not the win) for Best Supporting Actor. Fucking flick’s nearly three hours long and only leaves you wanting more (in a great way). I can’t imagine anyone being disappointed by it. Nolan and crew have created something close to a masterpiece.

They’re speaking to the choir as far as I’m concerned, but it’s good to hear that good guys such as these guys are happy with what they saw.

I’m pretty sure I’ll be, too, on July 18!