Batman movies in order
Batman Marathon

View Batman movies in order

Page Last Modified:

26 November 2025

Most Recent Release:

Batman & Robin - 1997

Total Runtime:

498 Minutes

Total Items:

4

Average User Score:

(5.8)

Batman movies in order

Ever feel the urge to dive deep into the shadowy streets of Gotham City? There's no better way than a Batman movie marathon to satisfy that craving. Whether you're a fan of Tim Burton's gothic flair or Joel Schumacher's vibrant take, these films are pure 90s superhero nostalgia. But where to start? And how do all those versions of Bruce Wayne connect? Don't worry. We've lined up the classic Batman films starring Michael Keaton, Val Kilmer, and George Clooney in the perfect order. So grab some popcorn, gather your friends, and get ready for that iconic Danny Elfman Batman theme.

498 Minutes 4 Movies
  1. 1
    Batman Movie 126 min. 1989
    Batman must face his most ruthless nemesis when a deformed madman calling himself "The Joker" seizes control of Gotham's criminal underworld.
    USER SCORE 7
  2. 2
    Batman Returns Movie 126 min. 1992
    Batman must face The Penguin, a sewer-dwelling gangleader intent on being accepted into Gotham society. Meanwhile, another Gotham resident finds herself transformed into Catwoman and is out for revenge...
    USER SCORE 7
  3. 3
    Batman Forever Movie 121 min. 1995
    In the looming shadows of Gotham City, two villainous souls devise twin schemes of revenge against the city's dark guardian. Two-Face, disfigured by chance and fueled by vengeance, is obsessed with destroying Batman, while the Riddler, a disillusioned genius, pursues the destruction of billionaire Bruce Wayne. Together they've hatched a plot to absorb and control the minds of all of Gotham City's residents, and only Batman and his new partner, Robin, can stop them! But the Dark Knight is hindered by a mystery from his own childhood. He must hope that a new found love can help him overcome the incident that made him what he is. In the end, he must decide: will he be Batman—forever?
    USER SCORE 5
  4. 4
    Batman & Robin Movie 125 min. 1997
    Batman and Robin deal with relationship issues while preventing Mr. Freeze and Poison Ivy from attacking Gotham City.
    USER SCORE 4

Batman (1989)

Our marathon begins with the film that started it all: Batman (1989). Director Tim Burton transformed Gotham City into a dark, gothic metropolis, far removed from the colorful camp of the 60s series. Michael Keaton stunned audiences as the enigmatic Bruce Wayne and a convincing Batman. But it's Jack Nicholson's unforgettable portrayal of the Joker that makes this film legendary. Prepare for a visually unique experience with an iconic Batsuit, an unforgettable Batmobile, and that classic Danny Elfman theme that sets the tone for your entire marathon.

Batman Returns (1992)

Think Gotham was dark in the first film? Enter Batman Returns. Tim Burton doubled down on his gothic superhero style in this sequel. Michael Keaton reprises his role as Bruce Wayne, but this time, the spotlight is on Gotham's iconic villains. Michelle Pfeiffer dazzles as Catwoman—seductive, dangerous, and tragic. And Danny DeVito's grotesque Penguin is both terrifying and pitiful. This film feels like a dark Christmas tale set in a decaying Gotham full of moral ambiguity. Perfect for a movie night with atmosphere and edge.

Batman Forever (1995)

Then... everything changes. Batman Forever ushers in the neon-style Batman era under Joel Schumacher's direction. Val Kilmer dons the cape, bringing a more glamorous, less brooding Bruce Wayne/Batman. The film's memorable moments come from its new villains and sidekicks. Jim Carrey unleashes chaos as the Riddler, while Tommy Lee Jones delivers an explosive performance as Two-Face. And let's not forget Chris O'Donnell's debut as Robin. The pace is fast, the colors are bright, and the soundtrack is pure 90s nostalgia.

Batman & Robin (1997)

Let's be honest: Batman & Robin is the most talked-about—and often criticized—film in this series. But that's precisely why it deserves a spot in your Batman movie marathon. George Clooney makes his debut as a charming yet lighthearted Bruce Wayne, with Chris O'Donnell returning as Robin. The villains? Pure camp. Arnold Schwarzenegger as Mr. Freeze delivers unforgettable ice puns, and Uma Thurman as Poison Ivy is a botanical fever dream. Alicia Silverstone also makes her entrance as Batgirl. It's over the top, it's neon, and it's a time capsule of 90s blockbuster filmmaking. Set your expectations to fun and enjoy the chaos.

Why This Order Works

These four films create a unique mini-universe within the larger Batman saga, distinct from the later Dark Knight Trilogy or the DC Extended Universe. Despite the tonal shifts between Tim Burton and Joel Schumacher's films, they exist in the same world with overlapping characters and evolving storylines. Watching them in this chronological order reveals how Gotham transforms and how the Batman franchise evolves with the 90s zeitgeist.

Tips for Your Batman Movie Marathon

Prepare for a long haul—this marathon runs just over 8 hours. Ensure you have enough snacks, comfy seating, and a good screen to fully appreciate all that Batmobile action. Start around noon if you want to finish in one evening, or spread it over a weekend with a double feature each day. Bonus points if you catch a few episodes of Batman: The Animated Series between films—it perfectly bridges the tone between Burton and Schumacher and adds depth to your viewing experience.

After the Marathon: What's Next?

If you're still craving more Batman after this Gotham journey, explore other parts of the Batman universe. Dive into the Batman comics, modern DC Batman films, or video games like the Arkham series. Or embark on a DC movie marathon where Batman teams up with Superman, Wonder Woman, and the rest of the Justice League. But first, give yourself a pat on the back—you've just experienced an iconic piece of superhero cinema, from gothic splendor to neon spectacle.

Let the Bat-Signal Shine

This marathon is more than just popcorn and action—it's a journey through film history, a nostalgic trip through the evolution of Bruce Wayne, Batman, and his colorful Gotham villains. Each film has its own charm, style, and zeitgeist. Whether you're here for Michael Keaton's Batman or the guilty pleasure of George Clooney's, this viewing order offers the ultimate experience. And let's be honest: you can already hear the Danny Elfman theme in your head, right?