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

Tim Burton might not have helmed a Batman film in over three decades, but his indelible mark on the DC Universe endures. Michael Keaton's iconic Bruce Wayne returned in 2023's *The Flash*, briefly bridging his universe to the DCEU. However, the Burton-Verse continues to expand, with new comic books and novels like the recently announced *Batman: Revolution* enriching its legacy.

Navigating the Burton-Verse can seem complex, but fear not! This guide unravels the interconnectedness of its films, novels, and comics.

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

The Extent of the Burton-Verse

Including the forthcoming Batman: Revolution, seven projects reside within Burton's Batman universe: three films, two novels, and two comic books. 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.

Excluded are 1995's Batman Forever and 1997's Batman & Robin, no longer considered part of Burton's continuity (we'll delve into this later).

Acquiring the Tim Burton Batman Collection

While streaming options exist for Burton's Batman films on Max and DC Universe Infinite offers the Batman ‘89 comics, physical media remains a popular choice. Here are some purchasing avenues:

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 provides a plot overview and mentions key characters.)

1. Batman (1989)

The seminal film launching Keaton's Batman against Nicholson's Joker, igniting "Bat-Mania" and establishing a darker superhero cinematic template.

2. Batman: Resurrection (2024)

This novel bridges the gap between *Batman* and *Batman Returns*, focusing on Batman's confrontation with Clayface and offering insights into the relationship between Bruce Wayne and Vicki Vale.

3. Batman: Revolution (2025)

Introducing the Burton-Verse's Riddler, this novel explores Gotham's growing resentment towards its elite.

4. Batman Returns (1992)

Keaton's return sees Batman face Catwoman and the Penguin amidst a chaotic Gotham holiday season.

5. Batman ‘89 (2021)

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

Learn more about *Batman ‘89*'s contribution to 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 Alexander Knox briefly appears in this Arrowverse crossover, showcasing Earth-89.

8. The Flash (2023)

Keaton's older Bruce Wayne makes a comeback, facing General Zod.

The Place of Batman Forever and Batman & Robin

While initially considered sequels, *Batman Forever* and *Batman & Robin* are now viewed as existing in a separate DC Universe due to their tonal differences and the absence of Burton and Keaton.