Tim Burton might 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, so let's unravel the interconnectedness of Tim Burton's Batman films, novels, and comics.
You can also explore our comprehensive guide on watching all the Batman movies in order.
The Expanding Burton-Verse: How Many Stories Exist?
Including the upcoming Batman: Revolution, the Burton-verse currently boasts seven projects: three films, two novels, and two comics. This includes 1989's Batman, 1992's Batman Returns, and 2023's The Flash, along with 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.
Where to Find Tim Burton's Batman
While streaming options exist on Max and DC Universe Infinite offers digital comics, physical media remains a popular choice. Here are some avenues to purchase 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 of Tim Burton's Batman Universe
(Each entry provides a plot overview and mentions key characters.)
1. Batman (1989)
The origin story pitting Michael Keaton's Batman against Jack Nicholson's Joker.
2. Batman: Resurrection (2024)
A novel bridging the gap between the first film and Batman Returns, featuring Clayface.
3. Batman: Revolution (2025)
Introduces the Burton-verse Riddler.
4. Batman Returns (1992)
Keaton's Batman faces 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 featuring Scarecrow and Harley Quinn.
7. Crisis on Infinite Earths: Part One (2019)
A brief cameo appearance by Alexander Knox.
8. The Flash (2023)
Keaton's Batman returns in a multiverse storyline.
The Status of Batman Forever and Batman & Robin
Despite shared characters, these films are now considered separate from the Burton-verse due to tonal differences and the absence of Burton and Keaton.
The Canceled Batgirl Movie
*(Contains spoilers for The Flash)* A planned film featuring Keaton as a mentor to Batgirl was canceled during post-production.
