Movie making is an art, a science, and a feat of pure magic.
There are hundreds of crew members, hundreds (sometimes thousands) of post production artists (editors, CGI, other VFX sound etc), not to mention all of the producers and people with director in their title (assistant directors, second unit directors, etc.) that have to get things just right to bring those special moments streaming by at 24fps.
To honor the magic that few get to see, we've decided to break down the best behind the scenes photos from The Dark Knight.
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How He Got Those Scars
Make-Up test shot of Heath Ledger's Joker scars.
You Remind Me of My Father
Heath jokingly spars with Patrick Leahy (whose appeared in numerous different renditions of Batman over the years), as director Chris Nolan looks on.
Directions for Choking
Director Christopher Nolan lines up the shot for The Joker (Ledger) and Batman's (Christian Bale or a stunt guy) final fight scene.
The Joker Takes Aim
A rare glimpse at The Joker, and Heath Ledger without the white, black, and red clown make up as he steadies his rifle to shoot Commissioner Gordon during the funeral scene.
Does Batman Approve?
Early in the film before Batman changes suits (likely the scarecrow/henchman/dog fight) Christian Bale takes a look through the viewfinder checking the framing of the shot.
The Coin
Chris Nolan, in a spiffy reflector vest and suit, directs Aaron Eckhart (just imagine the post production added two-face make-up) on the framing of the coin flip.
Nolan Demonstrates the Magic Trick
Director Christopher Nolan shows Heath Ledger just how to do that magic trick as the goons watch, including Eric Roberts (center just over The Joker's arm).
Pocket Suprise
Alternate Angle of the big crime boss gathering scene, where he let's them all know they should simply kill the Batman. Pictured is The Joker making his exit with a touch of drama and explosives.
Wardrobe Tests
Incredibly rare (sorry for image quality) shots of Heath Ledger in early wardrobe tests for The Joker. Swatches of fabric options are visible to the right, and alternate jackets and vests are pictures in the center.
Two-Face Before and After
Two-Face (Aaron Eckhart) before and after his digital make-up is applied. This shot is from the car scene during his coin flipping murderous rampage, taking out those who wronged him.