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 briefly integrated his Batman into the DCEU, but the Burton-Verse continues to grow through new comic books and novel spinoffs, such as the recently announced Batman: Revolution.
Navigating the full scope of the Burton-Verse can be complex, but we're here to guide you through it. Below, you'll find a detailed breakdown of how Tim Burton's Batman movies, novels, and comics interconnect.
For a comprehensive guide on watching all Batman movies in order, check out our full guide.
How Many Burton-Verse Batman Stories Are There?
Currently, there are seven projects set in Burton's Batman universe, including three films, two novels, and two comics. These are Batman (1989), Batman Returns (1992), The Flash (2023), the novels Batman: Resurrection and Batman: Revolution, and the comics Batman '89 and Batman '89: Echoes. Note that Batman Forever (1995) and Batman & Robin (1997) are no longer considered part of this universe, a point we'll discuss later.
Where to Buy Tim Burton’s Batman
While you can stream Burton's Batman movies on Max and read the Batman '89 comics on DC Universe Infinite, physical media offers a tangible collection. 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.
$90.00 save 28% - $64.99 at AmazonBatman '89
$24.99 save 39% - $15.27 at AmazonBatman '89: Echoes
$24.99 save 10% - $22.49 at AmazonBatman: Resurrection
Preorder for October 15. After The Joker’s death, Batman and Gotham City face a new threat.
$30.00 save 8% - $27.49 at AmazonBatman: 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.
Batman (1989)
This iconic film introduces Michael Keaton's Batman battling Jack Nicholson's Joker, sparking a wave of "Bat-Mania" and showcasing a darker superhero narrative.Batman: Resurrection (2024)
Set after the first movie, this novel by John Jackson Miller explores Batman's confrontation with Clayface and introduces Max Shreck, bridging the gap to Batman Returns.Batman: Revolution (2025)
Another novel by Miller, set between Batman and Batman Returns, introduces the Burton-Verse's Riddler, Norman Pinkus, who turns to crime after feeling unappreciated.Batman Returns (1992)
Keaton returns to face Catwoman and Penguin in a dark holiday-themed sequel. Plans for a third movie fell through, leading to Batman Forever.Batman '89 (2021)
This comic acts as a sequel to Batman Returns, featuring Harvey Dent's transformation into Two-Face and the introduction of Robin and Catwoman.Click here to learn more about how Batman '89 adds to the Burton-Verse.
Batman '89: Echoes (2024)
Acting as a hypothetical fourth Burton movie, this comic follows Robin and Batgirl tackling Scarecrow and Harley Quinn after Bruce Wayne goes missing.The Flash (2023)
Keaton's older Bruce Wayne is drawn back into action by Ezra Miller's Flash to confront General Zod, providing closure to his Batman saga.
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?
Batman Forever and Batman & Robin were initially considered sequels to Burton's films, sharing some continuity through characters like Commissioner Gordon and Alfred. However, they diverged tonally and are now seen as part of a separate DC Universe. The Batman '89 comics serve as the official sequels to Batman Returns, detailing Keaton's Batman's journey leading to The Flash.
The Canceled Batgirl Movie
Warning: this section contains spoilers for The Flash!
Keaton's Batman was initially planned for a more extensive role in the DCEU, including the now-canceled Batgirl movie. Keaton reprised his role as a mentor to Barbara Gordon, with J.K. Simmons and Brendan Fraser also involved. The film was canceled during post-production as a tax write-off, marking a significant shift in DC's cinematic plans.
For more on the future of DC movies, explore why James Gunn needs to keep Robert Pattinson’s Batman out of the DCU and stay updated on every DC movie and series in development.
