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

Tim Burton might not have directed a Batman film in over three decades, but his indelible mark on the Dark Knight 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 thrive, expanding through new comics and novels, including the recently announced Batman: Revolution. Navigating this expanded universe can be tricky, but fear not, this guide will illuminate the connections between the films, novels, and comics.

You can also explore our comprehensive guide on watching all the 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 series. This includes 1989's Batman, 1992's Batman Returns, and 2023's The Flash, alongside the novels Batman: Resurrection and Batman: Revolution, and the comics Batman ‘89 and Batman ‘89: Echoes.

Note that 1995's Batman Forever and 1997's Batman & Robin are no longer considered part of this continuity. We'll delve into the reasons later.

Acquiring the Burton-Verse

While you can stream Burton's Batman films on Max and access Batman ‘89 comics via DC Universe Infinite, physical copies remain a popular choice. Here are some options for purchasing the Burton-Verse movies 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 of the Burton-Verse

(Each entry provides 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 elements of Batman Returns.

3. Batman: Revolution (2025)

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

4. Batman Returns (1992)

Keaton returns as Batman battles 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, acting as a hypothetical fourth Burton film.

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

A brief cameo appearance by Alexander Knox.

8. The Flash (2023)

Keaton's final appearance as an older Bruce Wayne.

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 their tonal differences and the absence of Burton and Keaton. Batman ‘89 now serves as the canonical continuation of Keaton's Batman story.

The Canceled Batgirl Movie

(Contains spoilers for The Flash)

The Flash wasn't originally intended to be Keaton's final Batman appearance. A canceled Batgirl film was in development, featuring Keaton as a mentor to Barbara Gordon. The project was scrapped by WB, leaving this potential final performance unseen. For further details on the future of DC films, see why Gunn should keep Robert Pattinson's Batman out of the DCU and a list of every DC movie and series in development.