How to Watch (and Read) Tim Burton's Batman Universe In Chronological Order

Tim Burton may not have directed a Batman film in over three decades, but his enduring influence on the DC Universe remains undeniable. Michael Keaton's triumphant return as Bruce Wayne in 2023's The Flash briefly integrated his Batman into the DCEU, yet the Burton-Verse continues to expand through new comic books and novels, most recently with the announcement of Batman: Revolution.

Navigating the entirety of the Burton-Verse can be surprisingly complex, but fear not! This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of how the films, novels, and comics interconnect.

You can also explore our complete guide to watching all the Batman movies in order.

How Many Burton-Verse Batman Stories Exist?

Including the forthcoming Batman: Revolution, seven projects currently reside within Burton's Batman universe: three films, two novels, and two comics. This includes 1989's Batman, 1992's Batman Returns, and 2023's The Flash, along with the novels Batman: Resurrection and Batman: Revolution, and the comics Batman ‘89 and Batman ‘89: Echoes.

Notably absent are 1995's Batman Forever and 1997's Batman & Robin, no longer considered part of Burton's universe. We'll delve into the reasons later.

Where to Purchase Tim Burton's Batman

While streaming options exist on Max and DC Universe Infinite offers digital comics, physical media remains a popular choice. Here are some avenues for acquiring the Burton-Verse movies and books:

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

Includes Batman, Batman Returns, Batman Forever, and Batman & Robin. Available at Amazon for $64.99 (28% off).

Batman ‘89

Available at Amazon for $15.27 (39% off).

Batman ‘89: Echoes

Available at Amazon for $22.49 (10% off).

Batman: Resurrection

Pre-order available at Amazon for $27.49 (8% off). Release date: October 15.

Batman: Revolution (Hardcover)

Available at Amazon for $27.00 (10% off). Release date: October 28.

Every Tim Burton Batman Movie and Book in Chronological Order

*Each summary provides a plot overview and mentions key characters.*

1. Batman (1989)

Michael Keaton's early years as Batman clash with Jack Nicholson's Joker, igniting "Bat-Mania" and establishing a precedent for darker superhero films.

2. Batman: Resurrection (2024)

This novel bridges the gap between the first two films, introducing Max Shreck and exploring the aftermath of the Joker's demise.

3. Batman: Revolution (2025)

Introduces the Burton-Verse's Riddler, Norman Pinkus, capitalizing on Gotham's societal unrest.

4. Batman Returns (1992)

Keaton and Burton reunite for a sequel featuring Catwoman and the Penguin amidst a chaotic holiday season in Gotham.

5. Batman ‘89 (2021)

A comic book sequel to Batman Returns, featuring Two-Face and a unique take on Robin.

6. Batman ‘89: Echoes (2024)

A follow-up comic, acting as a hypothetical fourth Burton film, with Scarecrow and Harley Quinn as antagonists.

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

Robert Wuhl's Alexander Knox makes a brief appearance in this Arrowverse crossover.

8. The Flash (2023)

Keaton's older Bruce Wayne returns for one last mission.

How Do Batman Forever and Batman & Robin Fit In?

Despite initial consideration as sequels, Batman Forever and Batman & Robin are now officially deemed separate from the Burton-Verse due to tonal differences and the absence of Burton and Keaton.

The Canceled Batgirl Movie

**Warning:** This section contains spoilers for The Flash.

Keaton's Batman was initially slated for a larger DCEU role, including a planned appearance in the canceled Batgirl film. This project, which was in post-production before cancellation, featured Keaton as a mentor to Barbara Gordon.

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 currently developing DC movies and series.