The Definitive Guide to Watching Batman Animated Movies in Order: A Chronological Crusade

Watching all the Batman animated movies in chronological order is a rewarding but surprisingly complex task. While release date provides a solid foundation, internal chronology, thematic connections, and shared universes require careful consideration to achieve a truly comprehensive viewing experience, allowing you to witness the Dark Knight’s animated evolution.

Building Your Bat-Viewing List: Chronological Considerations

Navigating the world of Batman animated films can feel like facing a rogues’ gallery of choices. To truly understand the narrative arc and the evolution of Batman as a character, adhering to a chronological viewing order is paramount. The list below is constructed based on a combination of release date, internal chronology established within the films themselves (where applicable), and connections to pre-existing animated series canon. This provides the most coherent viewing experience possible.

Here’s the recommended viewing order:

1. Batman: Mask of the Phantasm (1993): While released later, this is considered a prequel to Batman: The Animated Series and fits chronologically before other entries due to Bruce Wayne’s origins being a central theme.

2. Batman & Mr. Freeze: SubZero (1998): Set within the established continuity of Batman: The Animated Series, this movie features a more experienced Batman and Robin.

3. Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker (2000): A complex entry, set decades after Batman: The Animated Series, with flashbacks to Bruce’s prime. Viewing after SubZero allows for a smooth transition to the future.

4. Batman: Mystery of the Batwoman (2003): This movie returns to the Batman: The Animated Series era and introduces a new vigilante.

5. Batman Begins (Animated Adaption) (2005): A direct adaptation of Christopher Nolan’s movie, but presented as an animated feature. Should be viewed before the DC Animated Movie Universe (DCAMU).

6. Batman: Gotham Knight (2008): A collection of six interconnected short films bridging Batman Begins and The Dark Knight. Though technically out of continuity, its art style and depiction of Gotham offer valuable context.

7. Batman: Under the Red Hood (2010): This film deals with the resurrected Jason Todd and his complicated relationship with Batman.

8. Batman: Year One (2011): An adaptation of Frank Miller’s iconic comic book, depicting Batman’s early days.

9. Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 1 (2012): A brilliant adaptation of the classic Frank Miller story, set in a bleak future.

10. Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 2 (2013): Concluding the Dark Knight Returns saga.

11. Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox (2013): While technically a Justice League film, its impact on Batman is profound and serves as a prelude to the DCAMU. It shows a twisted timeline and changes the Batman we know.

12. Son of Batman (2014): This marks the beginning of the DC Animated Movie Universe (DCAMU), introducing Damian Wayne as Robin.

13. Batman: Assault on Arkham (2014): Set in the Arkham video game universe, this film focuses on the Suicide Squad and their infiltration of Arkham Asylum.

14. Batman vs. Robin (2015): Continues the story of Damian Wayne’s development and his relationship with Bruce.

15. Batman: Bad Blood (2016): Expands the Bat-Family with Batwoman and Batwing, showcasing a Gotham without Batman.

16. Batman: The Killing Joke (2016): An adaptation of the controversial graphic novel, exploring the origins of the Joker and his relationship with Batman.

17. Justice League vs. Teen Titans (2016): Continues the DCAMU storyline with more focus on Damian Wayne, and his role within the Teen Titans.

18. Teen Titans: The Judas Contract (2017): A story centered around the Teen Titans, and their betrayal from within.

19. Justice League Dark (2017): Introduces the supernatural elements of the DC Universe, involving characters like John Constantine and Zatanna.

20. Batman: Gotham by Gaslight (2018): An Elseworlds tale that places Batman in Victorian-era Gotham, hunting Jack the Ripper.

21. Suicide Squad: Hell to Pay (2018): A standalone film that follows the Suicide Squad on a dangerous mission.

22. Batman Ninja (2018): A wildly imaginative and unique take on the Batman mythos, transporting him to feudal Japan.

23. Batman: Hush (2019): Adapts the popular comic book storyline, featuring many of Batman’s rogues and a new villain.

24. Justice League Dark: Apokolips War (2020): The culmination of the DCAMU storyline, featuring a desperate battle against Darkseid.

25. Batman: Soul of the Dragon (2021): An Elseworlds tale set in the 1970s, featuring a martial arts-focused Batman.

26. Batman: The Long Halloween, Part One (2021): A faithful adaptation of the acclaimed mystery comic, following Batman’s investigation into a series of murders.

27. Batman: The Long Halloween, Part Two (2021): Concluding the Long Halloween story.

28. Catwoman: Hunted (2022): A stylish anime-inspired film focusing on Catwoman’s exploits.

29. Batman and Superman: Battle of the Super Sons (2022): This movie focuses on the sons of Batman and Superman, and their relationship as they learn how to be heroes.

30. Batman: The Doom That Came to Gotham (2023): Based on Mike Mignola’s comic book, this film combines Batman with cosmic horror elements.

FAQs: Diving Deeper into the Batman Animated Universe

Here are some frequently asked questions to enhance your understanding and viewing experience of the Batman animated movies.

H3: What is the best starting point for someone new to Batman animated movies?

For newcomers, Batman: Mask of the Phantasm is an excellent starting point. It provides a compelling origin story that explores Bruce Wayne’s motivations and establishes the core elements of the Batman mythos. Batman: Year One is another solid option for those interested in a grounded, realistic portrayal of Batman’s early days.

H3: Is it necessary to watch Batman: The Animated Series before watching the movies?

While not strictly necessary, watching Batman: The Animated Series will significantly enhance your appreciation of movies like Batman & Mr. Freeze: SubZero and Batman: Mystery of the Batwoman. These films are direct continuations of the series’ storylines and characterizations.

H3: What exactly is the DC Animated Movie Universe (DCAMU)?

The DCAMU is a shared continuity of animated films that began with Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox and continued through Justice League Dark: Apokolips War. These movies feature interconnected storylines, consistent character designs, and an overarching narrative.

H3: Are the Batman: Arkham video games related to the animated movies?

While Batman: Assault on Arkham is set in the same universe as the Batman: Arkham video games, the other animated films are not directly connected.

H3: What is an “Elseworlds” Batman movie?

“Elseworlds” tales explore alternative versions of Batman, placing him in different time periods or scenarios. Examples include Batman: Gotham by Gaslight and Batman Ninja.

H3: Is Batman: The Killing Joke appropriate for all audiences?

Batman: The Killing Joke contains mature themes and violence that may not be suitable for younger viewers. Parental discretion is advised. The source material is controversial and the animated adaptation does nothing to alleviate those concerns.

H3: Are all the animated movies direct adaptations of comic books?

No, not all the films are direct adaptations. Some, like Batman: Mask of the Phantasm and Batman: Soul of the Dragon, are original stories created specifically for animation.

H3: Which Batman animated movie has the best animation style?

This is subjective, but Batman: Mask of the Phantasm is often praised for its distinctive “Dark Deco” style inspired by Batman: The Animated Series. Batman Ninja, with its anime-inspired visuals, is also visually stunning.

H3: How can I find out which streaming services carry these movies?

Websites like JustWatch can help you determine which streaming services (Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, etc.) are currently offering specific Batman animated movies.

H3: Why is Batman: Gotham Knight included, even though it’s not strictly canon?

Batman: Gotham Knight provides interesting character insights and bridges the gap between Batman Begins and The Dark Knight, offering a unique glimpse into Christopher Nolan’s vision of Gotham.

H3: What should I watch after finishing all the Batman animated movies?

After completing the movies, consider exploring other DC animated films featuring Batman, such as Justice League: Doom and Justice League: War. Then you can dive into the animated TV series featuring Batman, such as Batman: The Brave and the Bold.

H3: Are there any upcoming Batman animated movies I should be aware of?

Keep an eye on news outlets like The Hollywood Reporter and Variety for announcements regarding future Batman animated movie releases. Stay connected to the world of DC animation to be up-to-date.