How to Watch All the “Batman” Movies in Order — Including Where to Stream Christopher Nolan’s Trilogy

How to Watch All the ‘Batman’ Movies in Chronological Order

New fans of Batman are delving into the DC Comics series, thanks to the convenience of streaming services. Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy, featuring “Batman Begins,” “The Dark Knight,” and “The Dark Knight Rises,” is now available on Netflix starting April 2025. Christian Bale portrays the caped crusader in this gripping trilogy, but he is just one of the many renowned actors who have donned the Batman suit over the years, from Michael Keaton to Robert Pattinson.

Across the nine Batman movies, various actors have brought their interpretations to the iconic character, while popular villains have also been given their own standalone films or series. The Batman movies follow a chronological order of release, with different versions of the hero’s origin story retold over a span of 60 years. An exception to this sequence is “Joker,” which is set in 1981 within a distinct universe from the main Batman storyline.

As Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy is now accessible on Netflix, fans may be keen to watch all the Batman movies and shows in chronological order. The journey begins with the first Batman movie released in 1943, starring Lewis Wilson as Batman and Douglas Croft as Robin. This 15-part movie serial introduces the duo as they confront the villainous Dr. Daka.

Moving on to 1949, “Batman and Robin” features Robert Lowery as Batman and Johnny Duncan as Robin as they battle The Wizard. In 1966, Adam West steps into the Batman role, alongside Burt Ward as Robin, introducing major villains like Joker, Riddler, and Penguin to the big screen. Viewers can catch these early Batman films on various streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Roku.

The Batman legacy continued with Michael Keaton’s portrayal in Tim Burton’s 1989 film, which grossed over $400 million globally. Keaton returned in the 1992 sequel, “Batman Returns,” alongside Michelle Pfeiffer as Catwoman and Danny DeVito as Penguin. The 1990s brought “Batman Forever” in 1995, with Val Kilmer as Batman facing off against Riddler and Two-Face.

The franchise took a turn with George Clooney stepping into the Batman suit in 1997’s “Batman & Robin,” battling Mr. Freeze. However, it wasn’t until 2005 that Christian Bale revitalized the character in Christopher Nolan’s gritty reboot, “Batman Begins.” This was followed by the critically acclaimed “The Dark Knight” in 2008, featuring Heath Ledger’s iconic portrayal of the Joker.

Nolan’s trilogy concluded with “The Dark Knight Rises” in 2012, as Batman faces the formidable terrorist Bane. While the Dark Knight trilogy is a fan favorite, more recent additions to the Batman universe include Zack Snyder’s “Justice League” in 2017 and “Joker” in 2019, starring Joaquin Phoenix.

Most recently, Robert Pattinson took on the role of Batman in the dark and intense 2022 film, “The Batman.” The film delves into Batman’s darker side as he collaborates with a police officer to confront the Riddler. Fans can explore these various Batman movies and shows to witness the evolution of the iconic superhero over the decades.

In conclusion, the Batman movies offer a captivating journey through the evolution of this beloved superhero character, with each actor bringing a unique interpretation to the role. Whether you are a longtime fan or new to the Batman universe, exploring these films in chronological order provides a comprehensive look at the enduring legacy of the Dark Knight.