The Definitive Guide to Viewing Batman Films in Sequence

Batman, also known as the Dark Knight, Bruce Wayne, or the Caped Crusader, boasts numerous identities, making it fitting that a diverse array of Batman films caters to fans of every generation.

Whether it's the gripping intensity of the Dark Knight trilogy, the comedic brilliance of "The Lego Batman Movie," the nostalgic charm of the '60s Adam West classic, or the timeless appeal of the animated series, Batman enthusiasts are spoiled for choice with an extensive selection of movies and animated features.

What’s the ideal sequence to watch Batman movies? Given the vast selection, you can dive in anywhere, but dedicated "bat-fans" often suggest starting with Tim Burton’s 1989 classic "Batman" and then following the chronological timeline.

With so many films to choose from, here’s a rundown of all Batman movies in their release order, along with a special list of animated Batman features perfect for family nights. We’ll also briefly discuss each film, so you can decide which ones to skip or revisit your favorites.

Batman Films in Order of Release Date

The Tim Burton Era

The Joel Schumacher Era

The Christopher Nolan Masterpieces, Also Known as the Dark Knight Trilogy

The DC Extended Universe

Matt Reeves' Take on Batman

Animated Batman Films in Chronological Order

The Tim Burton Films

"Batman" (1989)

Tim Burton's debut "Batman" film features Michael Keaton as the Dark Knight and Jack Nicholson as his chaotic adversary, the Joker. This movie is the perfect entry point for newcomers, as Keaton's portrayal of Batman established a benchmark for future superhero films, while Burton's gothic, neo-noir vision of Gotham City remains visually stunning.

"Batman Returns" (1992)

In "Batman Returns," Michael Keaton reprises his role as the Dark Knight, battling the alluring Selina Kyle, portrayed by Michelle Pfeiffer as Catwoman, and Danny DeVito as the deranged politician, the Penguin. Pfeiffer and DeVito deliver iconic performances as the film's outcast villains in this concluding chapter of Burton's Batman saga. Note: "Batman Returns" may not be suitable for younger audiences.

The Joel Schumacher Films

"Batman Forever" (1995)

Following criticism of Tim Burton's dark depiction of Gotham City, Warner Bros. shifted to a more family-friendly tone for their subsequent Batman films. Val Kilmer stepped into the role of the Caped Crusader, embodying a lighter version of the hero. In "Batman Forever," Bruce Wayne teams up with Dick Grayson, portrayed by Chris O'Donnell, a spirited young acrobat who brings humor and a fresh dynamic to the duo. Jim Carrey's eccentric portrayal of the Riddler and Tommy Lee Jones' intense performance as Two-Face create a chaotic yet entertaining villainous pair. Despite behind-the-scenes tensions, their onscreen presence injected vitality into this mid-90s Batman adventure.

"Batman & Robin" (1997)

"Batman & Robin" marks Joel Schumacher's last directorial effort in the franchise, a film that remains infamous among devoted fans. George Clooney dons the cape as Batman, joined by Chris O'Donnell and Alicia Silverstone, who portray Robin and Batgirl. Together, they face off against a quirky lineup of adversaries, including Uma Thurman's Poison Ivy and Arnold Schwarzenegger's Mr. Freeze. The movie's over-the-top elements—such as the infamous bat suit design, Chris O'Donnell's portrayal of Robin, and Schwarzenegger's avalanche of icy one-liners—led Warner Bros. to shelve the series for almost ten years. If you're prioritizing which Batman films to watch, this one is best left out.

"The Dark Knight Trilogy"

"Batman Begins" (2005)

Christopher Nolan directs this essential reboot of the Batman series, with Christian Bale embodying the definitive Bruce Wayne. Unlike typical superhero films that skim over origins, "Batman Begins" delves deeply into the protagonist's transformation. The story follows a young Bruce Wayne, a privileged orphan who abandons Gotham to escape his parents' tragic legacy, training under Ra's al Ghul and the League of Shadows. Equipped with martial arts skills, tactical ingenuity, and cutting-edge technology from Wayne Enterprises, Batman emerges as a beacon of hope in a city riddled with corruption.

"The Dark Knight" (2008)

If you had to pick just one Batman movie to watch, this is the one! Christopher Nolan's second chapter in his trilogy shines with the introduction of the Joker, portrayed by the late Heath Ledger, who delivers the most unforgettable villain performance in the series. This masterpiece is widely regarded as one of the best superhero films of all time, earning Ledger a posthumous Oscar for his revolutionary role.

"The Dark Knight Rises" (2012)

The concluding chapter of the Dark Knight trilogy introduces a weary Bruce Wayne, portrayed by Christian Bale, who has withdrawn from the world. As Gotham enjoys a fragile peace, a new threat emerges in the form of Bane, played by Tom Hardy, a ruthless member of the League of Shadows. Bruce must rise from his self-imposed exile to face this powerful adversary, aided by allies like Commissioner Gordon (Gary Oldman) and John Blake (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), a determined police officer, in a desperate battle to protect Gotham.

DC Extended Universe (DCEU)

"Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice" (2016)

Warner Bros. introduced Ben Affleck as the new Batman in this follow-up to Zack Snyder's "Man of Steel," featuring Henry Cavill as Superman. While the film aimed to expand the DC Universe, its disjointed narrative and overemphasis on CGI-heavy action scenes sparked mixed reactions among fans, especially after the high bar set by "The Dark Knight" trilogy.

"Zack Snyder's Justice League" (2021)

Originally released in 2017 under director Josh Whedon, "Justice League" faced criticism for prioritizing commercial appeal over a faithful adaptation of DC's iconic heroes. Following a massive fan campaign, Warner Bros. released Zack Snyder's director's cut on HBO Max in 2021. This version showcases Ben Affleck's Batman as the unofficial leader of the Justice League, uniting a diverse team of superheroes, including Gal Gadot's Wonder Woman and Jason Momoa's Aquaman.

Matt Reeves' Batman

"The Batman" (2022)

Matt Reeves directs this noir-inspired take on Bruce Wayne's early days as Gotham's protector in "The Batman." Robert Pattinson stars alongside a stellar cast, including Jeffrey Wright as Jim Gordon, Paul Dano as the Riddler, and Zoe Kravitz, who delivers the most layered portrayal of Selina Kyle since Michelle Pfeiffer. The film's shadowy tone and psychological thriller elements draw inspiration from graphic novels like "The Killing Joke" and the detective-driven stories of the 1940s comics.

Animated Batman Films

"Batman: Mask of the Phantasm" (1993)

Batman's legacy extends to the animated realm, particularly the '90s era of Saturday morning cartoons. "Batman: Mask of the Phantasm" captures that nostalgic charm but stands out with its PG rating, addressing more mature themes than typical animated fare. Parents should note its darker tone compared to standard kids' animations.

"The Lego Batman Movie" (2017)

After stealing scenes in "The Lego Movie," Batman steps into the spotlight in his own Lego adventure. "The Lego Batman Movie" is a whimsical, family-oriented film packed with humor for both children and adults. Featuring the Joker, Harley Quinn, and a host of beloved characters, this movie offers a fun-filled experience for all.

"DC League of Super-Pets" (2022)

This DC Animated Universe entry from Warner Bros. focuses on the Justice League's pets as they unite to rescue their superhero owners. Unlike traditional Batman films, the spotlight shines on the charming Super-Pets, brought to life by the voices of Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart, and Kate McKinnon.