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 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 book and novel spin-offs like the recently announced Batman: Revolution. Navigating this expanded universe can be tricky, so let's break down how the films, novels, and comics connect.

You can also explore our comprehensive guide to 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 discuss why later.

Where to Find the Burton-Verse

While you can stream Burton's Batman films on Max and access Batman ‘89 comics on DC Universe Infinite, physical copies offer a tangible connection to this cinematic legacy. Here are some purchasing options:

Batman Favorites Collection [4K UHD + Blu-Ray]

Includes Batman, Batman Returns, Batman Forever, and Batman & Robin.

Batman ‘89

Batman ‘89: Echoes

Batman: Resurrection

A direct sequel to Tim Burton's Batman, exploring a new threat after the Joker's demise.

Batman: Revolution (Hardcover)

Chronological Order of the Burton-Verse

(Each entry provides a plot summary and mentions key characters.)

1. Batman (1989)

Michael Keaton's early Batman battles Jack Nicholson's Joker, sparking "Bat-Mania."

2. Batman: Resurrection (2024)

Batman confronts the remnants of the Joker's gang and the shape-shifting Clayface, bridging the gap to Batman Returns.

3. Batman: Revolution (2025)

Introduces the Burton-Verse Riddler, Norman Pinkus, capitalizing on Gotham's social unrest.

4. Batman Returns (1992)

Keaton's Batman faces Catwoman and the Penguin during a chaotic holiday season.

5. Batman ‘89 (2021)

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

6. Batman ‘89: Echoes (2024)

A further continuation, with Robin and Batgirl facing Scarecrow and Harley Quinn.

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

A brief cameo by Robert Wuhl as Alexander Knox in the Arrowverse crossover.

8. The Flash (2023)

An older Bruce Wayne returns, alongside General Zod.

The Place of Batman Forever and Batman & Robin

Despite featuring returning characters like Commissioner Gordon and Alfred, Batman Forever and Batman & Robin are now considered separate from the Burton-Verse due to their tonal differences and the absence of Burton and Keaton. Batman ‘89 establishes the canonical sequels to Batman Returns.

The Canceled Batgirl Movie

(Contains spoilers for The Flash)

The Flash wasn't initially meant to be Keaton's final Batman appearance. A canceled Batgirl film would have featured him mentoring Barbara Gordon, but WB's decision to shelve the project leaves this storyline unrealized.