Ranking Every Batman Movie: From Flop to Fantastic
Batman has been a beloved character for over 85 years, captivating audiences with his dark persona and thrilling adventures. With numerous movies under his utility belt, it's time to rank the notable films set in the Batman universe. From the campy charm of the 60s to the gritty realism of modern interpretations, Batman's cinematic journey is as diverse as it is exciting. Let's dive into the rankings and explore what makes each movie unique.
17. Batman & Robin (1997)
George Clooney dons the infamous nipple suit in this film, which, despite its campy excess, offers a nostalgic nod to the 60s Batman TV shows. Mr. Freeze's icy plans and Poison Ivy's seductive schemes make for a memorable, if not critically acclaimed, experience.
16. Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016)
Ben Affleck's Batman faces off against Superman in a convoluted plot that struggles to balance its ambitious scope. The film's highlight is the showdown with Doomsday, but it often feels overcomplicated and lacking in character development.
14. The Flash (2023)
After years of delays and controversies, The Flash finally hit theaters with mixed results. Ezra Miller's performance is overshadowed by mediocre acting and special effects, making it a regrettably forgettable entry in the DC universe.
12. Justice League (2017)
The original theatrical cut of Justice League is a far cry from Zack Snyder's director's cut. Despite its star-studded cast, the film's low stakes and unexciting premise leave much to be desired.
11. Catwoman (2004)
Halle Berry's Catwoman may have earned several Razzie awards, but it has since been reclaimed as a cult classic. The film's stiff dialogue and gloopy CGI are balanced by its stylish outfits and memorable one-liners.
10. Joker (2019)
Joaquin Phoenix delivers a haunting performance as Arthur Fleck in this dark and gritty origin story. While the film explores themes of nihilism and societal decay, it often feels heavy-handed and exhausting.
9. Birds of Prey (2020)
Margot Robbie shines as Harley Quinn in this fun and approachable film. With a colorful cast of characters and a lighthearted tone, Birds of Prey offers a refreshing contrast to the darker entries in the Batman universe.
8. Batman Forever (1995)
Val Kilmer's Batman faces off against Two-Face and the Riddler in this cheesy but entertaining film. Its over-the-top theatricality and vibrant visuals make it a guilty pleasure for many fans.
7. The Dark Knight Rises (2012)
The final installment in Christopher Nolan's Dark Knight trilogy, this film features a strong cast and a mostly focused plot. However, its underwhelming plot twist near the end detracts from an otherwise solid conclusion.
6. Batman (1989)
Tim Burton's Batman redefined the character for a new generation, moving away from the campy 60s TV show. Jack Nicholson's Joker and Michael Keaton's Batman create a dark and compelling dynamic that remains iconic.
5. Batman Begins (2005)
Christopher Nolan's reboot delves into Batman's origins, exploring his conflicted morality and intense training. The film's dark tone and complex characters set the stage for the acclaimed Dark Knight trilogy.
4. The Lego Batman Movie (2017)
This animated film is a loving ode to Batman lore, filled with humor and heart. Its vibrant animation and charismatic voice acting make it a delightful watch for fans of all ages.
3. The Batman (2022)
Robert Pattinson stars in this noir-inspired detective story. The film's moody atmosphere and believable villainy make it a standout entry in the Batman canon.
2. Batman: Mask of the Phantasm (1993)
This animated film captures the essence of Batman: The Animated Series, offering a complex and emotionally resonant story. Kevin Conroy and Mark Hamill's voice performances are top-notch, making it a must-watch for fans.
1. The Dark Knight (2008)
Christopher Nolan's masterpiece remains the pinnacle of Batman films. Heath Ledger's unforgettable performance as the Joker and the film's intense, thought-provoking plot have left a lasting impact on popular culture.
Join Streamers Visuals to stay updated on Game News and buy Emotes, Sub Badges, Overlays, and more designs!
