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 triumphant return as Bruce Wayne in 2023's The Flash briefly bridged his Batman into the DCEU, yet the Burton-Verse continues to expand with new comic book and novel additions, such as the recently announced Batman: Revolution. Understanding the complete Burton-Verse viewing and reading order is surprisingly complex, but fear not; this guide provides a comprehensive breakdown.
You can also explore our complete guide to watching all the Batman movies in order.
The Scope of the Burton-Verse
Including the upcoming Batman: Revolution, the Burton-Verse currently encompasses seven projects: three films, two novels, and two comics. This includes the 1989 Batman, 1992's Batman Returns, 2023's The Flash, 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 universe—we'll explain why later.
Acquiring the Burton-Verse
While streaming options exist for the films (Max) and comics (DC Universe Infinite), physical media remains a popular choice. 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.
$64.99 at Amazon
Batman ‘89
$15.27 at Amazon
Batman ‘89: Echoes
$22.49 at Amazon
Batman: Resurrection
Available October 15th
$27.49 at Amazon
Batman: Revolution (Hardcover)
Available October 28th
$27.00 at Amazon
Chronological Order of the Burton-Verse
(Each entry includes a brief plot summary and mentions key characters.)
1. Batman (1989)
Michael Keaton's early years as Batman clash with Jack Nicholson's Joker, igniting "Bat-Mania."
2. Batman: Resurrection (2024)
A novel bridging the gap between the first film and Batman Returns, featuring the Joker's aftermath and the introduction of Clayface.
3. Batman: Revolution (2025)
Introduces the Burton-Verse's Riddler, Norman Pinkus, and explores Gotham's class tensions.
4. Batman Returns (1992)
Keaton and Burton return; Batman confronts Catwoman (Michelle Pfeiffer) and the Penguin (Danny DeVito) during a chaotic holiday season.
5. Batman ‘89 (2021)
A comic sequel to Batman Returns, featuring Harvey Dent's transformation into Two-Face and a Marlon Wayans-inspired Robin.
6. Batman ‘89: Echoes (2024)
A follow-up comic, serving as a hypothetical fourth Burton film, with Scarecrow and Harley Quinn (inspired by Jeff Goldblum and Madonna, respectively).
7. Crisis on Infinite Earths: Part One (2019)
Robert Wuhl's Alexander Knox briefly appears in this Arrowverse crossover.
8. The Flash (2023)
Keaton's older Bruce Wayne returns for one last mission, encountering the Flash and General Zod.
The Status of Batman Forever and Batman & Robin
While initially considered sequels, Batman Forever and Batman & Robin are now officially viewed as existing within a separate DC Universe due to their tonal differences and the absence of Burton and Keaton. Batman ‘89 serves as the canonical continuation of the Burton-verse.
The Canceled Batgirl Movie
*(Contains spoilers for The Flash)* Keaton was initially slated for a larger DCEU role, including the canceled Batgirl film, where he would have mentored Barbara Gordon. The film's cancellation remains a significant loss for fans.
