CHRISTIAN BALE returns as Batman in 'The Dark Knight,' in theaters July 18, with HEATH LEDGER as The Joker, and the versatile star is opening up about working with his late co-star on his final, finished film.

"Heath was a joy," Christian tells EW.com. "What was so great to see with Heath is just how seriously he took [his work]. And we don't mean in any way to sound sort of pretentious with that, but just in the fact that if we don't take it seriously, then how can any audience ever take it seriously? And he did one hell of a job."

And of seeing new 'Dark Knight' scenes of Heath on the big screen for the first time, Christian says, "It gave me goose bumps throughout, looking at Heath up there. And I just hope that this can celebrate him, celebrate his work."

As for talk of a third film, Christian is clearly optimistic about putting the cape and cowl on for another go-round.

"Knowing the 'Dark Knight' story, I would like very much to complete a trilogy. And I think that knowing the story of 'The Dark Knight,' it leaves you anticipating something that really can get very, very interesting for a third. Now, the question would be: Is [director CHRIS NOLAN] going to be doing it? Because to me, I find it tricky to imagine working on it without it being a collaboration with Chris."