Tim Burton's Batman Universe: Chronological Watch and Read Guide

Tim Burton's influence on the DC Universe remains strong even decades after his last Batman film. Michael Keaton's return as Bruce Wayne in 2023's *The Flash* brought his iconic portrayal back into the spotlight, albeit briefly integrating it into the DCEU. Yet, Burton's universe continues to expand with new comic books and novels, such as the upcoming *Batman: Revolution*. Navigating the full scope of the Burton-Verse can be complex, but we're here to guide you through all the movies, novels, and comics that make up this unique Batman saga. For a comprehensive look at the entire Batman film series, you can also explore our guide on watching all the Batman movies in order.

How Many Burton-Verse Batman Stories Are There?

Including the forthcoming *Batman: Revolution*, there are seven projects set in Tim Burton's Batman universe. This collection includes three films: *Batman* (1989), *Batman Returns* (1992), and *The Flash* (2023); two novels: *Batman: Resurrection* and *Batman: Revolution*; and two comic series: *Batman '89* and *Batman '89: Echoes*. Note that *Batman Forever* (1995) and *Batman & Robin* (1997) are no longer considered part of this universe, a detail we'll explore further.

Where to Buy Tim Burton's Batman

While Burton's Batman films are available for streaming on Max and the *Batman '89* comics can be accessed on DC Universe Infinite, owning physical copies has its charm. Here are some options for purchasing the Burton-Verse content:

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

This collection includes *Batman*, *Batman Returns*, *Batman Forever*, and *Batman & Robin*. Originally priced at $90.00, it's now available for $64.99 at Amazon.

Batman '89

Available for $15.27 at Amazon, down from $24.99.

Batman '89: Echoes

Priced at $22.49 at Amazon, a 10% discount from $24.99.

Batman: Resurrection

Preorder for October 15 at Amazon for $27.49, an 8% discount from $30.00.

Batman: Revolution (Hardcover)

Available for preorder with a release date of October 28 at Amazon for $27.00, a 10% discount from $30.00.

Every Tim Burton Batman Movie and Book in Chronological Order

Here's how the various elements of the Burton-Verse fit together chronologically:

1. Batman (1989)

The film that kickstarted the Burton-Verse, featuring Michael Keaton's Batman battling Jack Nicholson's Joker. It sparked a cultural phenomenon known as "Bat-Mania" and set the stage for darker superhero films.

2. Batman: Resurrection (2024)

This novel by John Jackson Miller follows Batman as he navigates the aftermath of the first film, confronting the remnants of the Joker Gang and the emergence of Clayface. It serves as a bridge to *Batman Returns*, introducing characters and plot points that deepen the narrative.

3. Batman: Revolution (2025)

Another novel by Miller, set between the first two films, introducing the Burton-Verse's version of the Riddler, Norman Pinkus, who turns to crime amidst Gotham's social unrest.

4. Batman Returns (1992)

Burton and Keaton returned for this sequel, which pits Batman against Catwoman and the Penguin during a tumultuous holiday season in Gotham. Plans for a third film fell through, leading to *Batman Forever* without Burton or Keaton.

5. Batman '89 (2021)

This comic series, written by Sam Hamm and illustrated by Joe Quinones, acts as a direct sequel to *Batman Returns*. It introduces Two-Face and a Robin inspired by Marlon Wayans, further exploring the Burton-Verse. Click here to learn more about how Batman '89 adds to the Burton-Verse.

6. Batman '89: Echoes (2024)

Continuing the comic series, this installment follows the disappearance of Bruce Wayne, with Robin and Batgirl facing new threats from Scarecrow and Harley Quinn.

7. The Flash (2023)

Despite mixed reviews, *The Flash* provided closure for Keaton's Batman, showing an older Bruce Wayne drawn back into action by Barry Allen's time-travel antics and the looming threat of General Zod.

Tim Burton's Batman Universe in Release Order

• Batman (1989)
• Batman Returns (1992)
• Batman '89 (2021)
• The Flash (2023)
• Batman '89: Echoes (2024)
• Batman: Resurrection (2024)
• Batman: Revolution (2025)

How Do Batman Forever and Batman & Robin Fit In?

Originally seen as sequels to Burton's films, *Batman Forever* and *Batman & Robin* diverged significantly in tone and style, lacking Burton's and Keaton's involvement. With *The Flash*, DC has officially separated these films into a different universe, with the *Batman '89* comics now serving as the canonical continuation of Burton's saga.

The Canceled Batgirl Movie

Warning: this section contains spoilers for *The Flash*!

Keaton's Batman was set to continue beyond *The Flash* in the DCEU, with a role in the now-canceled *Batgirl* movie. Keaton would have portrayed a mentor figure to Barbara Gordon, with J.K. Simmons and Brendan Fraser also reprising their roles. Unfortunately, Warner Bros. canceled the film during post-production as a tax write-off, marking a significant shift in DC's cinematic plans and leaving fans without what might have been Keaton's final Batman performance.

For more on the evolving landscape of DC movies, discover why Gunn needs to keep Robert Pattinson's Batman out of the DCU and stay updated on every DC movie and series in development.