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 return as Bruce Wayne in 2023's The Flash briefly bridged his Batman into the DCEU, yet the Burton-Verse continues to expand through new comics and novels, including the recently announced Batman: Revolution. Navigating this expanded universe can be tricky, but this guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Tim Burton Batman films, novels, and comics.
You can also find 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 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. Note that Batman Forever (1995) and Batman & Robin (1997) are no longer considered part of this continuity—we'll explain why 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 includes a brief plot summary and mentions key characters.)
1. Batman (1989)
The origin story pitting Michael Keaton's Batman against Jack Nicholson's Joker.
2. Batman: Resurrection (2024)
A novel bridging the gap between the first two films, featuring Clayface.
3. Batman: Revolution (2025)
Introduces the Burton-Verse's Riddler.
4. Batman Returns (1992)
Keaton's Batman faces Catwoman and the Penguin.
5. Batman ‘89 (2021)
A comic sequel to Batman Returns, featuring Two-Face and 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 cameo appearance by Alexander Knox.
8. The Flash (2023)
Keaton's Batman's final appearance (so far).
The Exclusion of Batman Forever and Batman & Robin
Despite shared characters, these films are now considered separate from the Burton-Verse due to their tonal differences and the absence of Burton and Keaton. Batman ‘89 establishes the canonical sequels to Batman Returns.
The Canceled Batgirl Movie
*(Contains spoilers for The Flash)* Keaton was originally intended for a larger DCEU role, including the canceled Batgirl film. This project's cancellation prevents viewers from seeing what would likely have been his final Batman performance.
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