Leonardo DiCaprio surprised fans this week by naming The Dark Knight as his favorite Christopher Nolan film. The actor, who starred in Nolan’s Inception, made the revelation during a joint interview with Benicio del Toro for Collider. Both actors praised the film’s exploration of moral complexity and its grounded approach to action storytelling. DiCaprio’s choice sparked discussion online, especially given his past advice to avoid superhero roles. The comments reaffirm Nolan’s Batman trilogy as a standout in modern cinema.
Leonardo DiCaprio and Benicio del Toro sat down for an interview with Collider on November 9, 2025, where they were asked to name their favorite Christopher Nolan film. Both actors selected The Dark Knight, citing its thematic depth and realistic portrayal of heroism. DiCaprio explained that the film’s ethical questions and narrative structure set it apart from other studio projects. The choice was unexpected, as many fans assumed he would name Inception, a film he headlined under Nolan’s direction.
Actor Commentary and Film Context
DiCaprio praised The Dark Knight for its exploration of chaos, order, and the meaning of heroism in a troubled city. “It was aimed at something darker and more morally complex,” he said. The film, released in 2008, remains one of Nolan’s most acclaimed works, earning over $1 billion worldwide and winning two Academy Awards. Del Toro echoed DiCaprio’s sentiments, adding that the film’s grounded tone and character-driven plot made it a standout in the superhero genre.
Industry and Fan Response
The actor’s comments drew attention due to his previous advice to Timothée Chalamet: “no hard drugs and no superhero movies,” as reported by British Vogue. DiCaprio clarified that his stance was based on concerns about studio control over artistic integrity. However, he made an exception for Nolan’s Batman films, which he views as transcending typical genre limitations. Fans responded positively, with many agreeing that The Dark Knight represents a high point in Nolan’s career.
Awards Legacy and Genre Perception
DiCaprio’s endorsement adds weight to The Dark Knight’s legacy as more than just a blockbuster. The film’s influence on superhero storytelling and its critical success continue to shape industry standards. His comments may also prompt reevaluation of genre boundaries, especially as more prestige actors engage with comic book adaptations. Nolan’s ability to merge philosophical themes with mainstream appeal remains a benchmark for directors.
What’s Next: Upcoming Projects and Collaborations
DiCaprio is currently promoting The Wager, directed by Martin Scorsese, while del Toro is set to star in The Burning Room. Nolan’s next project, rumored to be a historical thriller, is in pre-production. No future collaborations between DiCaprio and Nolan have been confirmed, but the actor’s admiration suggests openness to working together again.
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