Tim Burton's Batman Universe: Chronological Viewing and Reading Guide

Tim Burton's influence on the DC Universe remains strong even decades after his last Batman movie. With Michael Keaton reprising his role as Bruce Wayne in 2023's The Flash, and the expansion of the Burton-Verse through new comic books and novels like the upcoming Batman: Revolution, fans are eager to explore this unique universe. Navigating the entire Burton-Verse can be complex, but we've got you covered with a comprehensive guide to all the movies, novels, and comics.

For a complete viewing experience, you can also check out our guide to watching all the Batman movies in chronological order.

How Many Burton-Verse Batman Stories Are There?

Including the upcoming Batman: Revolution, there are seven projects set in Burton's Batman universe. This includes three films: Batman (1989), Batman Returns (1992), and The Flash (2023); two novels: Batman: Resurrection and Batman: Revolution; and two comics: Batman ‘89 and Batman ‘89: Echoes.

Note that Batman Forever (1995) and Batman & Robin (1997) are not part of Burton's Batman universe. We'll discuss why later.

Where to Buy Tim Burton’s Batman

While you can stream Burton's Batman movies on Max and access the Batman ‘89 comics on DC Universe Infinite, physical media offers a tangible experience. Here are some purchasing options:

Batman Favorites Collection [4K UHD + Blu-Ray] Includes Batman, Batman Returns, Batman Forever, and Batman & Robin. $90.00 save 28% - $64.99 at Amazon

Batman '89 $24.99 save 39% - $15.27 at Amazon

Batman '89: Echoes $24.99 save 10% - $22.49 at Amazon

Batman: Resurrection Preorder for October 15. After The Joker’s death, Batman faces a new threat in Gotham. $30.00 save 8% - $27.49 at Amazon

Batman: Revolution (Hardcover) Out October 28. $30.00 save 10% - $27.00 at Amazon

Every Tim Burton Batman Movie and Book in Chronological Order

Each blurb provides a broad overview of the plot and mentions the heroes/villains featured.

1. Batman (1989) The film that started it all, featuring Michael Keaton's Batman facing off against Jack Nicholson's Joker. It sparked "Bat-Mania" and showcased a darker, more mature superhero narrative.

2. Batman: Resurrection (2024) Set after the first movie, this novel by John Jackson Miller follows Batman as he deals with the remnants of the Joker Gang and the rise of Clayface. It bridges the gap to Batman Returns, introducing Max Shreck and exploring Bruce Wayne's relationship with Vicki Vale.

3. Batman: Revolution (2025) Another novel by Miller, set between Batman and Batman Returns. It introduces the Burton-Verse's Riddler, Norman Pinkus, who turns to crime amidst Gotham's growing resentment toward the elite.

4. Batman Returns (1992) Burton and Keaton return for this sequel, where Batman battles Catwoman and Penguin during a tumultuous holiday season in Gotham. Plans for a third movie fell through, leading to Batman Forever.

5. Batman ‘89 (2021) A direct sequel to Batman Returns, this comic by Sam Hamm and Joe Quinones explores Burton's abandoned third movie plans. It features Harvey Dent becoming Two-Face and introduces a Robin inspired by Marlon Wayans.

6. Batman ‘89: Echoes (2024) Acting as a hypothetical fourth Burton movie, this comic follows Robin and Batgirl as they tackle Scarecrow and Harley Quinn, with Bruce Wayne missing.

7. The Flash (2023)

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?

Basketball Forever and Batman & Robin were initially seen as sequels to Burton's films, but without Burton or Keaton, they diverged significantly in tone and quality. With The Flash, DC now considers these films part of a separate universe, with the Batman ‘89 comics serving as the true sequels to Batman Returns.

The Canceled Batgirl Movie

The Flash was not meant to be Keaton's final outing. Plans included a Batgirl movie where Keaton would mentor Leslie Grace's Barbara Gordon. However, Warner Bros. canceled the film for a tax write-off, leaving fans without what could have been Keaton's last Batman performance.

For more on DC's future, explore why James Gunn should keep Robert Pattinson's Batman separate from the DCU and stay updated on all DC movies and series in development.