I'm a huge fan of this new Batman series as well--I love the realistic look and overall tone they took with it. Thai, I think the lack of punch you described with the Avengers (by comparison to Batman) was probably because there's no getting around the idea that it's a fantasy (demi-gods, transforming humans, super powers, etc.), while Batman is merely a man with expensive "toys" and intense physical training, a genuine possibility. By keeping the tone dark, it's easier to see in a realistic light--things go wrong, people get the wrong impression of the hero, he has lasting effects of his actions, both physical and emotional. As for the 3D stuff, I'm with those that can live without it--the idea of a movie is to get lost in that world for a brief time, and how can that happen if you're constantly reminded by a cheap effect that "yes, it's only a movie".