La Timeline Complète de l’Univers Batman au Cinéma

The Complete Timeline of the Batman Universe in Cinema

From Gotham to screens around the world, Batman is one of the most iconic superheroes of all time. But between reboots, parallel sagas, and different directorial visions, it's easy to get lost in the Dark Knight's iterations. Here's the complete Batman movie timeline to help you navigate the evolution of the legend in cinema.

1. The Trilogy by Tim Burton and Joel Schumacher (1989 – 1997)

  • Batman (1989) – Tim Burton
  • Batman: The Challenge (1992) – Tim Burton
  • Batman Forever (1995) – Joel Schumacher
  • Batman & Robin (1997) – Joel Schumacher

This period was marked by a dark, gothic aesthetic, followed by a more colorful and fanciful shift. Michael Keaton, Val Kilmer, and George Clooney all took to the stage.

2. Christopher Nolan’s Trilogy – The Dark Knight (2005 – 2012)

  • Batman Begins (2005)
  • The Dark Knight (2008)
  • The Dark Knight Rises (2012)

A critically acclaimed, realistic and psychological take on the character, starring Christian Bale , this trilogy is considered by many to be the pinnacle of Batman cinema.

3. The DCEU’s Batman – Ben Affleck (2016 – 2023)

  • Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016)
  • Suicide Squad (cameo appearance – 2016)
  • Justice League (2017) & Zack Snyder's Justice League (2021)
  • The Flash (2023 – surprise return of Ben Affleck and Michael Keaton)

A darker, more experienced incarnation of Batman, facing cosmic and moral threats, Zack Snyder has redefined the tone of the DCEU with this more tortured version.

4. The Batman – The Universe of Matt Reeves (2022 – ?)

  • The Batman (2022) – starring Robert Pattinson

A complete reboot with a darker atmosphere and a more detective-like hero than ever. This film focuses on a young, brutal, and still-developing Batman. A sequel and spin-offs are in development.

5. Parallel and experimental films

  • The LEGO Batman Movie (2017) – Fun parody version
  • Joker (2019) – although he doesn't appear, Batman is tied to Gotham's history

These works explore the Batman mythology from completely different angles, between offbeat humor and psychological drama.

Each Batman film has brought a unique take on the character: from vigilante to down-to-earth strategist, to tormented hero to neo-noir detective. Whether you're a fan of Bale, Pattinson, Affleck, or Keaton, the Batman cinematic universe continues to evolve.

🦇 Want to be the Dark Knight in real life? Discover our collection of Batman costumes and explore the universe in style!

📚 And to go further, also discover our articles:
→ The ideal order to discover the DC universe
→ The best Batman gifts for every fan

Actors who have played Batman in the movies

It's not just the universe that has evolved, but also the iconic actors who brought Bruce Wayne to life:

  • Michael Keaton : Charismatic in Tim Burton's saga (1989, 1992), he left his mark on an entire generation.
  • Val Kilmer : A more sober Batman in Batman Forever (1995).
  • George Clooney : A lighter tone in Batman & Robin (1997), sometimes criticized but now a cult classic.
  • Christian Bale : His performance in the Nolan trilogy is considered one of the most profound and realistic.
  • Ben Affleck : An aging, more brutal and tortured Batman in the DCEU.
  • Robert Pattinson : The latest, younger and more of a detective, in a dark and psychological version.

Each actor brought their own sensibility to the role, enriching the image of the Dark Knight through the ages.

The different faces of Gotham City

Gotham isn't just a setting; it's a character in its own right. Depending on the film, its atmosphere changes completely:

  • In Burton's films: a dark, baroque, gothic city.
  • At Nolan: a realistic metropolis inspired by Chicago.
  • In The Batman : a dirty, corrupt city, with an almost oppressive neo-noir style.

These settings always reflect Batman's psychological state: the more chaotic Gotham is, the more tortured the hero is.

The Evolution of the Batman Costume

From the rigid latex suit of the 90s to Snyder's ultra-realistic tactical Batsuit, the visual evolution of the costume shows how Batman's image has been adapted to each era:

  • Iconic : the first versions with the famous yellow bat.
  • Minimalist : Nolan's realistic armor.
  • Brutalist : Ben Affleck's heavy, muscular suit.
  • Retro & Tech : Pattinson's DIY, but tech-packed, handmade style.

🔍 These details are a real treat for cosplay fans and figurine collectors!

🛒 Want to bring Batman home with you?

Are you a fan of the Dark Knight? Bring Gotham into your decor or wardrobe with:

🖤 ​​At Boutique Batman , we celebrate the legacy of a timeless hero.

And you, what's your favorite version of Batman in the movies? Tell us in the comments!

Back to blog