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

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

Mar 18,25

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 integrated his Batman into the DCEU, yet the Burton-Verse continues to expand through new comics and novels, most recently with the announced Batman: Revolution. Understanding how to experience the complete Burton-Verse is surprisingly complex, 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 upcoming 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.

Importantly, 1995's Batman Forever and 1997's Batman & Robin are no longer considered part of the Burton-Verse; we'll explain why later.

Acquiring the Tim Burton Batman Collection

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]

$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 Tim Burton's Batman Universe

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

1. Batman (1989)

The origin story. Michael Keaton's Batman faces Jack Nicholson's Joker.

2. Batman: Resurrection (2024)

A novel bridging the gap between the first two films, introducing Max Shreck and exploring the aftermath of the Joker's death.

3. Batman: Revolution (2025)

Another novel, introducing the Burton-Verse's Riddler.

4. Batman Returns (1992)

Batman confronts Catwoman and the Penguin during a chaotic holiday season.

5. Batman ‘89 (2021)

A comic sequel to Batman Returns, featuring Two-Face and a version of Robin.

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 in the Arrowverse crossover.

8. The Flash (2023)

Keaton's Batman returns for one last mission.

The Exclusion of Batman Forever and Batman & Robin

While initially considered sequels, Batman Forever and Batman & Robin are now officially separated from the Burton-Verse due to tonal differences and the absence of Burton and Keaton. Batman ‘89 now serves as the canonical continuation of the Burton storyline.

The Canceled Batgirl Movie

(Contains spoilers for The Flash)

The Flash was not initially intended to be the end for Keaton's Batman. A planned Batgirl film, featuring Keaton as a mentor to Barbara Gordon, was canceled during post-production.

For further information on 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.

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