Every Single Batman Movie, Ranked Best to Worst
- 1Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, Aaron Eckhart
The Dark Knight, directed by Christopher Nolan, stands tall as one of the most exceptional Batman movies ever made. This magnum opus boasts an unforgettable performance by Heath Ledger as the Joker, and Christian Bale's striking portrayal of Bruce Wayne/Batman. With its brilliant storytelling and intense action sequences, this film delves into the depths of chaos created by a city under siege. An exploration of morality, vigilantism, and sacrifice are themes that elevate The Dark Knight to a realm beyond mere superhero films.
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- 2Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Liam Neeson
Christopher Nolan's ambitious reboot, Batman Begins, breathes new life into the iconic character by presenting an enthralling origin story for the modern era. Christian Bale effortlessly embodies both facets of Bruce Wayne - billionaire playboy and vengeful vigilante - while Liam Neeson shines as Ra's al Ghul, mentor turned adversary. The film showcases a grittier take on Gotham City and draws inspiration from classic comic book arcs such as Year One to craft an exhilarating tale steeped in realism.
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- 3Jack Nicholson, Michael Keaton, Kim Basinger
Tim Burton's distinctive Gothic take on Gotham City and the Caped Crusader in Batman (1989) is undoubtedly an essential entry in the pantheon of Batman movies. Michael Keaton's brooding interpretation of Bruce Wayne/Batman pairs perfectly with Jack Nicholson's flamboyant yet sinister portrayal of the Joker. This cinematic masterpiece combines eye-catching visuals with a stirring score by Danny Elfman to create an atmospheric experience that has left a lasting impression on generations of fans.
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- 4Michael Keaton, Danny DeVito, Michelle Pfeiffer
Batman Returns sees Tim Burton revisiting his Gothic vision of Gotham City with even more imaginative aplomb than before. Michael Keaton dons the cape once more in this darkly stylish sequel where he faces off against two iconic adversaries - Michelle Pfeiffer's sultry Catwoman and Danny DeVito's grotesque Penguin - creating an intricate web of intrigue and betrayal. This film's stunning visual design, haunting score, and memorable performances make it a standout entry in the Batman canon.
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- 5Christian Bale, Anne Hathaway, Tom Hardy
The thrilling conclusion to Christopher Nolan's trilogy, The Dark Knight Rises, features an older and wearier Batman returning from exile to save Gotham City from the ruthless Bane, played with chilling intensity by Tom Hardy. Anne Hathaway's enigmatic portrayal of Catwoman adds another layer of complexity to this epic tale of redemption and sacrifice. With its heart-stopping action sequences and poignant character arcs, The Dark Knight Rises brings a fitting close to one of cinema's most celebrated sagas.
- 6Kevin Conroy, Efrem Zimbalist, Bob Hastings
Batman: Mask of the Phantasm is a masterful animated feature that explores the tragic romance between Bruce Wayne and Andrea Beaumont while introducing a mysterious new antagonist, the Phantasm. This film expertly combines elements from both classic noir films and comic book lore to craft a compelling narrative that engages viewers on multiple levels. Its art deco-inspired style and exceptional voice acting - including Kevin Conroy as Batman - make this gem stand out among other adaptations.
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- 7Robert Pattinson, Zoë Kravitz, Jeffrey Wright
The upcoming film The Batman, directed by Matt Reeves, promises to deliver yet another fresh take on the Caped Crusader with Robert Pattinson stepping into the iconic suit. Set during his early years as Gotham City's protector, this noir-inspired story will delve into Batman's detective prowess while pitting him against an array of familiar foes such as Paul Dano's Riddler and Colin Farrell's Penguin. This highly-anticipated release has fans eagerly awaiting what could be another stellar addition to the storied franchise.
- 8Neil Patrick Harris, Jensen Ackles, Kelly Hu
Based on a popular comic book arc, Batman: Under the Red Hood offers a gripping storyline that dives deep into themes such as guilt, loss, and betrayal. This animated film features stellar voice work from Bruce Greenwood as Batman, Jensen Ackles as the vengeful Red Hood, and John DiMaggio as the sadistic Joker. With its superbly choreographed action scenes and emotional resonance, this adaptation is a must-watch for all fans of the Dark Knight.
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- 9Will Friedle, Kevin Conroy, Mark Hamill
Set in a futuristic Gotham City, Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker expands on the legacy of Batman by introducing Terry McGinnis as his young successor under Bruce Wayne's guidance. This animated film offers a thrilling tale that pits McGinnis against a resurrected Joker, providing an exhilarating mix of high-tech gadgetry and classic comic book elements. The clever storytelling and impressive animation make it a standout entry in the world of Batman movies.
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- 10Conan O'Brien, Ariel Winter, Paget Brewster
Based on Frank Miller's groundbreaking graphic novel, Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 2 depicts an aging Bruce Wayne donning his cape once more to counter both new threats and old foes in a dystopian Gotham City. Featuring intense battles with iconic characters such as Superman and an unforgettable showdown against the Joker, this gripping conclusion delivers powerful performances while showcasing seminal moments in Batman lore. Its striking animation style and riveting narrative make it an essential viewing experience for any fan.
- 11
The Lego Batman Movie
Will Arnett, Michael Cera, Rosario DawsonThe Lego Batman Movie takes a light-hearted approach to Gotham City's brooding defender while still paying homage to his storied history throughout various media incarnations. Will Arnett lends his comedic talents to voice Lego Batman in this hilarious adventure where he faces off against numerous villains while learning valuable lessons about teamwork and family dynamics along with way. Bursting with colorful animation, witty dialogue, and rapid-fire pop culture references, this delightful parody is sure to entertain fans both young and old alike.
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- 12Ariel Winter, Michael Emerson, Peter Weller
Adapting Frank Miller's seminal graphic novel, Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 1 expertly captures the essence of a world-weary Bruce Wayne being drawn back into his crime-fighting alter ego. Featuring intense action sequences and razor-sharp dialogue, this animated film stays true to its source material while offering viewers a fascinating glimpse into an alternate future where Gotham City has spiraled further into chaos. The striking animation style and compelling storytelling ensure that this adaptation holds up well against other entries in the Batman filmography.
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- 13Adam West, Burt Ward, Cesar Romero
Batman (1966) is a campy, fun-filled romp that embraces the lighthearted side of the Caped Crusader. Starring Adam West as Batman and Burt Ward as Robin, this Technicolor extravaganza depicts our heroes facing off against their classic rogues' gallery - including Cesar Romero's Joker, Burgess Meredith's Penguin, Frank Gorshin's Riddler, and Lee Meriwether's Catwoman - in a series of zany schemes and over-the-top action set pieces. Though vastly different from contemporary interpretations of the character, this classic film still holds a special place in fans' hearts due to its whimsical charm and memorable performances.
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- 14Nathan Fillion, Ron Perlman, Cary Elwes
Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox offers a mesmerizing exploration of an alternate reality where familiar characters take on vastly different roles due to changes in history orchestrated by The Flash himself. With gripping storytelling that delves deep into themes such as sacrifice and redemption, this animated film sees Batman playing a significant part in uncovering the truth behind these drastic alterations while facing his own demons along with way. Its breathtaking animation and mature narrative make it an essential viewing experience for comic book enthusiasts.
- 15
Batman: Assault on Arkham
Matthew Gray Gubler, Neal McDonough, Kevin ConroySet within the universe established by the acclaimed Arkham video game series, Batman: Assault on Arkham offers a thrilling adventure that sees the Dark Knight going up against a team of dangerous criminals led by the cunning Amanda Waller. With its intricate plot, breathtaking action sequences, and superb voice acting from Kevin Conroy as Batman, this animated film expertly captures the atmosphere and tone of its source material while still managing to offer viewers an engaging narrative.
- 16Kevin Conroy, Tim Daly, Susan Eisenberg
In Justice League: Doom, Batman's strategic contingency plans against his fellow members of the Justice League fall into the wrong hands, leading to disastrous consequences. This animated film boasts excellent characterizations through top-notch voice acting - including Kevin Conroy reprising his role as Batman - and showcases the tactical brilliance of the Caped Crusader when pitted against friends and foes alike. Its complex storyline, colorful animation style, and thrilling action sequences make for an exhilarating viewing experience.
- 17Ben Affleck, Gal Gadot, Henry Cavill
Zack Snyder's Justice League is a sprawling epic that sees Batman assembling a team of heroes to face an imminent threat from interstellar conqueror Steppenwolf. Ben Affleck delivers a nuanced portrayal of Bruce Wayne/Batman, showcasing his leadership skills and unwavering resolve throughout this ambitious tale. With its gorgeous visuals, complex narrative structure, and powerful themes of unity and determination, this cinematic opus offers viewers an immersive experience as they witness Batman joining forces with iconic characters such as Wonder Woman, Superman, and Aquaman.
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- 18Kevin Conroy, Mark Hamill, Tara Strong
Based on Alan Moore's seminal graphic novel, Batman: The Killing Joke delves into the twisted psyche of one of Gotham City's most infamous villains - The Joker - offering viewers a chilling insight into his tragic backstory. Featuring outstanding performances from Kevin Conroy as Batman and Mark Hamill as The Joker, this dark tale explores themes such as madness, morality, and redemption with unsettling intensity. Its striking animation style coupled with haunting dialogue ensures that it remains an unforgettable entry in the canon of Batman films.
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- 19Eliza Dushku, Bryan Cranston, Katee Sackhoff
Adapted from Frank Miller's iconic comic book arc of the same name, Batman: Year One presents a gritty origin story for both Bruce Wayne's nocturnal alter ego and James Gordon's rise within Gotham City Police Department. With stunning animation that pays homage to its source material and powerful performances from Ben McKenzie as Batman and Bryan Cranston as Gordon, this engaging adaptation captures the essence of what makes these characters so compelling while also exploring their early struggles in a city teetering on the brink of chaos.
- 20
Justice League: War
Michelle Monaghan, Shemar Moore, Sean AstinJustice League: War showcases a fledgling team of superheroes - including Batman - coming together for the first time to thwart an alien invasion led by Darkseid. This animated film boasts colorful animation, dynamic action sequences, and engaging character interactions that provide fans with an exhilarating glimpse into the early days of these iconic figures working together in order to save Earth from impending doom. Its captivating storylines and excellent voice acting ensure that it remains a memorable entry in the pantheon of superhero films.
- 21Mark Hamill, Dana Delany, Lisa Edelstein
The Batman Superman Movie: World's Finest brings together two of DC Comics' most legendary characters as they join forces to take on Lex Luthor and The Joker in this thrilling animated feature. With its clever script packed with witty banter between the titular heroes and stellar voice work from Kevin Conroy as Batman and Tim Daly as Superman, this film offers fans a delightful exploration into their contrasting philosophies while still delivering plenty of pulse-pounding action set pieces.
- 22Morena Baccarin, David McCallum, Giancarlo Esposito
In Son of Batman, the Caped Crusader discovers he has fathered a son named Damian with his former lover Talia al Ghul after becoming embroiled in her father Ra's al Ghul's deadly machinations once more. This animated film explores themes of legacy, responsibility, and redemption through its engaging story that sees Batman attempting to forge a bond with his headstrong progeny while also training him in the ways of crime-fighting. Its gripping narrative and excellent vocal performances make it a standout entry in the world of Batman movies.
- 23Marilu Henner, Dean Jones, Kevin Conroy
Batman & Mr. Freeze: SubZero pits the Caped Crusader against one of his most complicated adversaries - Victor Fries aka Mr. Freeze - as he desperately seeks a cure for his terminally ill wife Nora Fries at any cost necessary. This thrilling adventure boasts impressive animation, heart-wrenching emotional stakes, and a nuanced exploration into the motivations behind both heroes and villains alike in their unrelenting pursuit of justice or survival respectively.
- 24Jason O'Mara, Jennifer Morrison, Jerry O'Connell
Adapted from the popular comic book storyline, Batman: Hush introduces an enigmatic new villain who manipulates several members of Gotham's rogues' gallery in order to orchestrate an elaborate plot against the Dark Knight himself. With its sleek animation style, suspenseful storytelling, and character-driven narrative, this animated feature offers viewers an edge-of-your-seat experience as they follow Batman on his quest to unravel Hush's mysterious identity while also navigating complex relationships with friends and foes alike.
- 25Allison Mack, LeVar Burton, Clancy Brown
Superman/Batman: Public Enemies brings together two iconic superheroes as they find themselves framed by President Lex Luthor for crimes they didn't commit while simultaneously trying to thwart an impending meteor strike on Earth. With its breakneck pacing, witty dialogue between these contrasting characters, and frenetic action sequences showcasing their combined might against numerous foes such as Metallo and Solomon Grundy among others, this animated film is sure to please fans looking for high-stakes excitement set within DC Comics' rich mythology.
- 26Jerry O'Connell, Shemar Moore, Tony Todd
Justice League Dark: Apokolips War showcases Batman and his fellow members of the Justice League facing their darkest hour as they confront the seemingly unstoppable forces of Darkseid. This animated film features relentless action, high-stakes drama, and a gripping narrative that sees our heroes pushed to their absolute limits as they struggle against overwhelming odds in order to save Earth from utter annihilation. Its mature themes, visceral storytelling, and strong characterizations ensure that it remains a memorable entry in the canon of DC Comics-based movies.
- 27Ben Affleck, Henry Cavill, Amy Adams
Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice is a visually stunning spectacle that sees Ben Affleck's Batman at odds with Henry Cavill's Superman in a showdown for the ages. Director Zack Snyder ambitiously brings together these two titans of comic book lore while also introducing Gal Gadot's Wonder Woman and setting the stage for future interconnected films within this cinematic universe. Despite some polarizing elements, its grandiose visuals and intense action sequences make for an unforgettable experience.
- 28Summer Glau, Ed Asner, Andre Braugher
Superman/Batman: Apocalypse delves into the complex dynamics between these iconic heroes while also introducing Supergirl to their ranks as they join forces to protect her from the villainous machinations of Darkseid. This animated feature boasts a compelling story that expertly balances larger-than-life battles against cosmic threats with smaller moments showcasing the bond between these legendary characters. Its thrilling pacing, outstanding voice work, and breathtaking animation make for an exhilarating viewing experience.
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- 29James Woods, Mark Harmon, Gina Torres
In Justice League: Crisis on Two Earths, Batman and his fellow members of the Justice League are transported to an alternate reality where they must confront their evil doppelgangers in order to save their own world from a deadly threat. This animated film boasts captivating storytelling, intricate characterizations, and exhilarating action sequences as our heroes navigate moral quandaries while grappling with the implications of their very existence. With its thought-provoking themes and stunning animation, this movie is sure to leave viewers pondering its weighty subject matter long after the credits have rolled.
- 30Bruce Greenwood, Jennifer Carpenter, Scott Patterson
Set in an alternate Victorian-era version of Gotham City, Batman: Gotham by Gaslight reimagines Bruce Wayne's crime-fighting persona as he investigates a series of brutal murders committed by infamous serial killer Jack the Ripper. This intriguing adaptation offers viewers a unique spin on familiar characters without sacrificing what makes them so enduringly popular among fans. Its atmospheric visuals, engaging mystery, and inventive storytelling make it a standout entry in the world of Batman movies.
