Tim Burton's Batman Universe: Chronological Viewing Guide

Tim Burton may not have directed a Batman film in over three decades, but his indelible mark on the DC Universe endures. Michael Keaton's return as Bruce Wayne in 2023's The Flash briefly bridged his Batman into the DCEU, yet the Burton-Verse continues to expand through comics and novels, most recently with the announced Batman: Revolution. Understanding how to experience the complete Burton-Verse is surprisingly complex, but fear not, we've got you covered. This guide details how the films, novels, and comics intertwine.

You can also explore our comprehensive guide to watching all Batman films in order.

The Scope of the Burton-Verse

Including the upcoming Batman: Revolution, seven projects currently reside within Burton's Batman universe: three films, two novels, and two comic book series. This encompasses 1989's Batman, 1992's Batman Returns, 2023's The Flash, the novels Batman: Resurrection and Batman: Revolution, and the comics Batman '89 and Batman '89: Echoes.

This excludes 1995's Batman Forever and 1997's Batman & Robin, no longer considered part of the Burton continuity. We'll delve into the reasons later.

Acquiring the Tim Burton Batman Collection

While streaming options exist for the films (Max) and comics (DC Universe Infinite), physical media remains appealing. Here are options for purchasing the Burton-Verse movies and books:

Batman Favorites Collection [4K UHD + Blu-Ray]

Includes Batman, Batman Returns, Batman Forever, and Batman & Robin.

Batman '89

Batman '89: Echoes

Batman: Resurrection

Preorder for October 15. A direct sequel to Tim Burton's iconic Batman, exploring a new threat after the Joker's demise.

Batman: Revolution (Hardcover)

Out October 28.

Chronological Order of the Burton-Verse

(Each entry provides a plot overview and mentions key characters.)

1. Batman (1989)

Michael Keaton's early Batman confronts Jack Nicholson's Joker, sparking "Bat-Mania" and ushering in a new era of darker superhero films.

2. Batman: Resurrection (2024)

A novel bridging the gap between Batman and Batman Returns, dealing with Joker's aftermath and introducing Clayface, while providing insights into Bruce Wayne and Vicki Vale's relationship.

3. Batman: Revolution (2025)

Another novel, introducing the Burton-Verse's Riddler, Norman Pinkus, and exploring Gotham's growing resentment towards its elite.

4. Batman Returns (1992)

Keaton and Burton return; Batman battles Catwoman (Michelle Pfeiffer) and the Penguin (Danny DeVito) during a chaotic holiday season.

5. Batman ‘89 (2021)

A comic sequel to Batman Returns, set three years later, featuring Two-Face and a Marlon Wayans-inspired Robin.

Learn more about Batman '89's contribution to the Burton-Verse.

6. Batman ‘89: Echoes (2024)

A follow-up comic, acting as a hypothetical fourth Burton film, with Robin and Batgirl facing Scarecrow (Jeff Goldblum-inspired) and Harley Quinn (Madonna-inspired).

7. Crisis on Infinite Earths: Part One (2019)

Robert Wuhl's brief reprise of Alexander Knox in this Arrowverse crossover episode showcases Earth-89.

8. The Flash (2023)

Keaton's older Bruce Wayne returns, assisting The Flash against General Zod.

The Status of Batman Forever and Batman & Robin

Despite featuring returning supporting characters, Batman Forever and Batman & Robin are now officially considered separate from the Burton-Verse due to tonal differences and the absence of Burton and Keaton. Batman '89 serves as the definitive sequel to Batman Returns.

The Canceled Batgirl Movie

(Contains spoilers for The Flash)

The Flash wasn't initially intended to be Keaton's final Batman appearance. A canceled Batgirl film would have featured him mentoring Leslie Grace's Barbara Gordon, with J.K. Simmons and Brendan Fraser also starring. The project was scrapped by Warner Bros.

For further insights into the future of DC films, explore why Gunn should keep Robert Pattinson's Batman separate from the DCU and review all upcoming DC movies and series.