Saga Batman : discover the full lists of Batman movies !

The Dark Knight has several films to his name. Let’s retrace them, from The Dark Knight Rises, Batman Forever, Batman Begins, Justice League, and many others…

Batman: The Movie (1966)

This first film marks the hero’s initial foray into the cinematic universe, and it is closely tied to the “Batman” TV series broadcast in the 1960s, summarizing Batman’s adventures. Directed by Leslie H. Martinson, the film keeps the series’ light and humorous tone, with Adam West as the hero and Burt Ward as Robin.

The main argument in favor of this film lies in its reverent and satirical nature toward the hero’s comic books of the time. It captures the colorful, exaggerated aesthetic of the superhero’s Silver Age adventures, with absurd gadgets, memorable dialogue, and outlandish situations.

Batman’s first appearance in a movie

Adam West’s presence as the lead is one of the film’s strengths. His performance carries a certain self-mockery, portraying a hero who, while serious about his mission to fight crime, is also aware of the absurdity of certain situations. This unique approach helped create a memorable, entertaining cinematic experience. There’s even a nod to his character in our Batman Escape Game in Paris!

Batman (1989) by Tim Burton

The 1989 film, directed by Tim Burton, marked a significant turning point in the cinematic history of the Dark Knight. It was one of the first to take a darker, more serious approach to the character, moving away from the light tone of the 1960s TV series. Several arguments justify this film’s importance in the evolution of the hero on the big screen.

First, the choice of Michael Keaton as the lead initially sparked controversy, but his performance was ultimately praised. Keaton brought gravity and complexity to Bruce, showing a hero haunted by his past and driven by a keen sense of justice. He helped set a new standard for psychological depth in on-screen superheroes.

Second, Jack Nicholson’s iconic performance as the Joker is one of the film’s highlights. Nicholson brought flamboyant, deranged energy to the role, turning the Joker into a memorable, terrifying character. His performance set new expectations for supervillains in superhero films, showing they could be as complex and fascinating as the heroes themselves.

The Joker’s chaotic universe comes to life in the theatrical experience The Joker, where you face the Clown Prince of Crime alongside Harley Quinn.

Batman Returns with Michael Keaton (1992)

Tim Burton’s 1992 film represents a bold, artistically rich continuation of Batman’s cinematic universe. Several arguments support this film’s relevance and importance in the Dark Knight’s big-screen evolution.

First, the film continues the masked vigilante’s complex characterization, with Michael Keaton reprising his role. Keaton’s performance deepens Bruce’s duality, showing the psychological weight that comes with his role as a nocturnal vigilante in his role as Batman. This continuity helps forge a coherent, mature vision of the character, distancing Batman from the earlier, lighter, campier image.

Second, the introduction of new iconic villains enriches Batman’s world. Michelle Pfeiffer plays a memorable Catwoman, bringing a complex dimension to the character. Her portrayal explores themes of empowerment, revenge, and fighting injustice. Likewise, Danny DeVito as the Penguin offers a striking interpretation of the villain, adding a tragic layer to his character.

Batman vs Joel Schumacher

Batman Forever (1995)

Directed by Joel Schumacher in 1995, this film marks a notable transition in the cinematic approach to the Dark Knight. Although criticized for its lighter tone and more fanciful elements, several arguments can be made in favor of its impact on the evolving Batman universe.

First, this film introduces Val Kilmer in the role of Batman/Bruce. Kilmer brings a charismatic presence and a blend of seriousness and levity to Batman. His performance preserves Bruce Wayne’s psychological complexity while aligning with the film’s more colorful tone.

Second, the film features new iconic characters, notably Two-Face (Tommy Lee Jones) and the Riddler (Jim Carrey). While their treatment may be considered more flamboyant, it brings a fresh, entertaining dynamic to Batman’s world. Tommy Lee Jones offers an eccentric take on Two-Face, while Jim Carrey excels as the enigmatic Edward Nygma / the Riddler.

Batman & Robin (1997)

Directed by Joel Schumacher in 1997, this film is often cited as a turning point in Batman’s cinematic history—but not necessarily in a positive way.

First, Batman & Robin continued the tradition of casting renowned actors in Gotham City’s emblematic roles. George Clooney succeeded Val Kilmer as Batman/Bruce Wayne, bringing his own style to the masked hero. Although the film’s tone is often criticized, Clooney maintains a charismatic presence and the gravitas necessary for Batman.

Second, the film introduces Chris O’Donnell as Robin and Alicia Silverstone as Batgirl. Including these characters reinforces the family aspect and team dynamic, offering a new dimension to Batman’s interpersonal relationships. While the costumes may be criticized for their exaggerated look, they add a distinct visual flair to Batman’s universe.

Discover now Batman in the 2000s, moving away from his comic-book appearance, notably after Batman as played by Ben Affleck and Robert Pattinson:

Batman Begins (2005) by Christopher Nolan

Directed by Christopher Nolan in 2005, this film marks a radical renewal for Batman on the big screen.

First, Batman Begins redefines Batman’s origin in a realistic, nuanced way. Christopher Nolan and his team delved into Bruce Wayne’s psychology, deeply exploring his journey, fears, and motivations. This realistic, psychological approach set a new standard for characterizing heroes in cinema, showing that even comic-book icons can be treated seriously and complexly.

Second, Christian Bale delivers a convincing, charismatic Batman/Bruce Wayne. His performance captures the character’s duality, revealing Bruce Wayne’s emotional burden as a masked vigilante. Bale brings emotional depth to the role, showing his doubts, determination, and sacrifices.

The Dark Knight (2008)

The Dark Knight, the second entry in Christopher Nolan’s trilogy, is often considered the best Batman film of all time.

First, the film is celebrated for Heath Ledger’s legendary performance as the Joker. Ledger brought madness, chaos, and psychological depth to the character, exceeding expectations from audiences and critics. His performance redefined how antagonists are perceived in superhero films, elevating the Joker to cinematic icon status.

Second, The Dark Knight continues exploring the dark, complex themes introduced in Batman Begins. The film examines the nature of justice, Batman’s morality, and how chaos can test even the most determined hero. The story raises existential questions, thus transcending the superhero genre to touch universal themes. Also discover our article on the movies with the Joker!

Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016) by Zack Snyder

Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, directed by Zack Snyder, marked an important stage in Batman’s cinematic universe, particularly by introducing B. Affleck as Batman/Bruce Wayne.

First, Mr. Affleck offers a different, more mature interpretation of Batman. His Bruce Wayne is presented as a veteran worn down by years of fighting crime. Affleck successfully captured the character’s distress and emotional complexity, bringing a new dimension to Batman as a dark, tormented figure who must face Superman, with Wonder Woman making an appearance.

Second, the film explores the consequences of Superman’s (Henry Cavill from Man of Steel) actions on the world, leading the Dark Knight to question the legitimacy of the latter’s power. This broadened Batman’s moral horizon and shows how the character can react to global stakes, illustrating his role as humanity’s protector.

Justice League (2017)

Justice League, also directed by Zack Snyder, represents a major milestone in the DC cinematic universe by bringing together some of the greatest superheroes, including Batman. Although the film faced tumultuous production circumstances and mixed reviews, several aspects can be highlighted regarding its impact on Batman.

First, Justice League continues Batman’s development within a superhero team. Ben Affleck returns as Bruce Wayne/Batman, showing the character in a different context as leader of the Justice League. The character’s evolution in this film underscores his adaptability and ability to work in a team despite his preference for operating solo.

Second, the film further explores the consequences of the events in Batman v Superman, the Batman sequel, highlighting the responsibility and burden Batman feels in the face of an imminent extraterrestrial threat. This helps deepen Batman’s psychology and shows how his past actions continue to ripple through the world.

And now, Batman has continued to exist in theaters, notably with The Batman:

The Batman (2022)

The film adopts a darker, more realistic tone, moving away from earlier, more fanciful versions of the hero. This allows deeper exploration of dark, complex themes such as crime, justice, and the hero’s psyche.

The script offers a captivating plot full of twists and mysteries. The story unfolds organically, keeping the viewer constantly on edge. The sequel, Batman 2, has been confirmed by Warner Bros studio and will arrive in 2025: discover our article to learn all about the second installment.

The film adopts a darker, more realistic tone, moving away from earlier, more fanciful versions of the hero. This allows deeper exploration of dark, complex themes such as crime, justice, and the hero’s psyche.

The script offers a captivating plot full of twists and mysteries. The story unfolds organically, keeping the viewer constantly on edge. The sequel, Batman 2, has been confirmed by Warner Bros studio and will arrive in 2025: discover our article to learn all about the second installment.

Still a fan of the saga?

Then come immerse yourself in Gotham City—with you in the leading role! Become Gotham’s hero.

Don’t wait: dare to solve Gotham’s mysteries right here!

A word of advice: choose your allies wisely to avoid traps and end up in Arkham Asylum… Many events can be organized, such as a bachelor party in a vigilante’s shoes or a team building session in the Batcave.