In Dark Knight, Chicago is a bustling metropolis with crime, greed, and violence typical of today's large cities. The theme of madness is epitomized the villain, Joker. The irrational violent sadistic behavior of the Joker, who would watch the 'world burn' for pleasure, represents the underbelly of maniacal society. In classic film noir, madness permeates throughout society, but in the case of Dark Knight, only certain individuals remain evil. If society was disillusioned and corrupt, the boat of civilians or prisoner would both be destroyed. The society of Dark Knight is a precursor to a film noir world of madness and control.