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 indelible mark on the DC Universe endures. Michael Keaton's iconic Bruce Wayne returned in 2023's The Flash, briefly bridging his universe to the DCEU. However, the Burton-Verse continues to expand through new comics and novels, including the recently announced Batman: Revolution. Navigating this expanded universe can be challenging, but this guide provides a comprehensive overview.

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

The Scope of the Burton-Verse

Including the forthcoming Batman: Revolution, the Burton-Verse currently encompasses seven projects: three films, two novels, and two comic book series. 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.

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

Acquiring the Burton-Verse

While streaming options exist for the films (Max) and comics (DC Universe Infinite), physical media remains a popular choice. Here are some purchasing options:

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

Includes Batman, Batman Returns, Batman Forever, and Batman & Robin. $64.99 at Amazon

Batman ‘89

$15.27 at Amazon

Batman ‘89: Echoes

$22.49 at Amazon

Batman: Resurrection

Preorder for October 15 $27.49 at Amazon

Batman: Revolution (Hardcover)

Out October 28 $27.00 at Amazon

Chronological Order of the Burton-Verse

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

1. Batman (1989)

Michael Keaton's Batman faces Jack Nicholson's Joker in this seminal film that redefined the superhero genre.

2. Batman: Resurrection (2024)

A novel bridging the gap between the first two films, featuring the Joker's aftermath and the introduction of Clayface.

3. Batman: Revolution (2025)

This novel introduces the Burton-Verse's Riddler, Norman Pinkus.

4. Batman Returns (1992)

Keaton's Batman confronts Catwoman (Michelle Pfeiffer) and the Penguin (Danny DeVito).

5. Batman ‘89 (2021)

A comic book sequel to Batman Returns, featuring Two-Face and a version of Robin. Learn more about its contribution to the Burton-Verse.

6. Batman ‘89: Echoes (2024)

A follow-up comic, featuring Scarecrow and Harley Quinn.

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

A brief cameo by Alexander Knox (Robert Wuhl) in the Arrowverse crossover.

8. The Flash (2023)

Keaton's Batman returns in a final, high-stakes mission.

The Status of Batman Forever and Batman & Robin

While initially considered sequels, these films are now officially considered separate from the Burton-Verse due to tonal differences and the absence of Burton and Keaton.

The Canceled Batgirl Movie

(Contains spoilers for The Flash)

A planned Batgirl film, featuring Keaton as an older Batman mentoring Barbara Gordon, was canceled during post-production.