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 triumphant return as Bruce Wayne in 2023's The Flash briefly bridged his Batman into the DCEU. Yet, the Burton-verse continues to expand, fueled by new comic books and novels, including the recently announced Batman: Revolution. Navigating this expanded universe can be tricky, but this guide clarifies how the films, novels, and comics interconnect.

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

The Expanding Burton-Verse: A Count

Including the upcoming Batman: Revolution, the Burton-verse currently boasts seven projects: three films, two novels, and two comic book series. This includes 1989's Batman, 1992's Batman Returns, 2023's The Flash, 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, now officially considered separate from the Burton continuity. We'll delve into the reasons later.

Acquiring the Burton-Verse

While streaming options exist for the films on Max and DC Universe Infinite for the comics, physical media remains a popular choice. Here's where to find the Burton-verse films and books:

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: Every Tim Burton Batman Story

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

1. Batman (1989)

Michael Keaton's early years as Batman clash with Jack Nicholson's Joker, igniting "Bat-Mania" and ushering in a new era of darker superhero films.

2. Batman: Resurrection (2024)

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

3. Batman: Revolution (2025)

This sequel introduces the Burton-verse Riddler, Norman Pinkus, capitalizing on Gotham's social unrest.

4. Batman Returns (1992)

Keaton and Burton reunite as Batman confronts Catwoman and the Penguin amidst a chaotic Gotham holiday season.

5. Batman ‘89 (2021)

A comic sequel to Batman Returns, featuring Two-Face and a Marlon Wayans-inspired Robin.

Click here to learn more about how Batman ‘89 expands the Burton-Verse.

6. Batman ‘89: Echoes (2024)

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

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

Robert Wuhl's brief reprise of Alexander Knox in this Arrowverse crossover.

8. The Flash (2023)

Keaton's older Bruce Wayne returns for one last mission, encountering the Flash and General Zod.

The Exclusion of Batman Forever and Batman & Robin

Despite featuring recurring characters, these films differ significantly in tone and are now considered part of a separate DC universe.

The Canceled Batgirl Movie

*Contains spoilers for The Flash* Originally planned to feature Keaton as an aged mentor to Barbara Gordon, this project was canceled during post-production.