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

Tim Burton may 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 through new comics and novels, most recently with the announced Batman: Revolution. Understanding how to experience this expanded universe requires a little navigation, but we've got you covered.

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

The Scope of the Burton-Verse

Including the upcoming Batman: Revolution, the Burton-Verse currently comprises seven projects: three films, two novels, and two comic book series. 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.

Importantly, 1995's Batman Forever and 1997's Batman & Robin are no longer considered part of this continuity. We'll delve into the reasons later.

Acquiring the Tim Burton Batman Collection

While streaming options exist for the films (Max) and comics (DC Universe Infinite), physical media remains a popular choice. Here are some purchasing options:

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 summary and mentions key characters.)

1. Batman (1989)

The origin story. Michael Keaton's Batman confronts Jack Nicholson's Joker.

2. Batman: Resurrection (2024)

A novel bridging the gap between the first two films, 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 a version of Robin.

6. Batman ‘89: Echoes (2024)

A further comic sequel, 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 for one last mission.

The Status of Batman Forever and Batman & Robin

While initially considered sequels, Batman Forever and Batman & Robin are now officially separate from the Burton-Verse due to tonal differences and the absence of Burton and Keaton. The Batman ‘89 comics establish the canonical continuation of Keaton's Batman story.

The Canceled Batgirl Movie

(Contains spoilers for The Flash)

The Flash wasn't originally intended to be Keaton's final appearance. A canceled Batgirl film, featuring Keaton as an older Batman mentoring Barbara Gordon, was in post-production before its cancellation by Warner Bros.