Christian Bale on his Dark Knight Rises co-stars

In an interview with the Philippine Daily Inquirer , Christian Bale has been singing the praises of his Dark Knight Rises co-stars, while at the same time making us weep at the thought of "the end of that Batman era".

On Anne Hathaway, who plays Selina Kyle/Catwoman, Bale said, "In many ways, she has the hardest job. There are a number of people who feel that the Catwoman role has been defined previously. So, I always saw Anne’s role as being the toughest job of any of us.

"In my case, I’ve stopped referencing outside sources. I now reference Chris’ own world of Batman as a guide to what I will continue doing."

When talk turned to Tom Hardy, Bale called him "a phenomenal actor", adding, "I like working with him a great deal. He goes the whole hog.

"I know that Bane has been seen in movies before. But, in my eyes, Tom is essentially creating Bane for the first time so there’s great freedom for him to be able to do so."

Bale also called Joseph Gordon-Levitt, "a very intriguing guy".

"He’s somebody who truly seems to love acting. He’s a good, smart guy. He did a very good job in the movie."

But the comments that got us fighting back a lump in our throat was when Bale discussed the end of his reign as cinema's Batman: "I wrapped a few days ago so that will be the last time I’m taking that cowl off."

"I believe that the whole production wrapped yesterday, so it’s all done. Everything’s finished. It’s me and Chris – that will be the end of that Batman era."

The Dark Knight Rises opens on 20 July 2012, a date which should by now be etched in your memory.