Mr. Ando of the Woods is an epic Japanese classic film. I just watched it, and the movie's incredible on its own, but when I found out the film is actually an allegory for the struggle between humans and the environment, I was obviously stunned. Of particular note is the soundtrack, which is brilliantly executed; the song at the end won a couple Oscars, if I'm not mistaken (unusual for an international film, I'm sure).
Anyway, the piece just recently fell into the public domain, so you can see it for free on Youtube. Pop some popcorn and get ready to experience some high culture.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqzt3T4R38cEDIT: Now, I haven't seen The Dark Knight Rises yet, but I'd be willing to venture that this film is almost certainly better than it. So there.