Batman All Version 〈TRENDING〉

Before the sidekicks and the Batcave, Batman was scary. Created by Bob Kane and Bill Finger, this version was a direct riposte to Superman’s godliness. He carried a gun (briefly), didn’t mind killing a giant monster or a thug, and lurked in the shadows like a vampire. This Batman was a creature of the night—a detective first, a superhero second. Played by: Adam West

Batman survives because he is a mirror. He reflects the anxieties of the era—be it the Great Depression, the Cold War, or the Post-9/11 world. He isn't just a hero. He is an idea. And that idea never dies.

Christopher Nolan asked, "What if Batman existed in our world?" The result was The Dark Knight Trilogy . Bale’s Bruce Wayne was a playboy with a death wish, and his Batman was a tactical creature built by military hardware. While the infamous "growly voice" is divisive, this version focused on endurance, sacrifice, and the idea that Batman is a symbol that can retire. Played by: Ben Affleck

Whether you grew up with Adam West or the Arkham video games, your "definitive" Batman says a lot about you. Let’s break down the major eras of the Dark Knight. Detective Comics #27

Frank Miller’s The Dark Knight Returns and Alan Moore’s The Killing Joke shattered the campy image. On screen, Tim Burton cast the unlikely Michael Keaton, who delivered a Batman that was psychologically broken. Keaton’s Bruce Wayne was a strange, awkward recluse, but his Batman was a brutal urban legend. This version reintroduced the black rubber suit and the idea that Batman might be just as crazy as the criminals he fights. Voiced by: Kevin Conroy

For most millennials, Kevin Conroy is Batman. Batman: The Animated Series (BTAS) combined the gothic noir of Burton with the emotional depth of the comics. Conroy did something revolutionary: he used two voices. The soft, weary Bruce Wayne and the commanding, stoic Batman. This version gave us the definitive origin of Mr. Freeze ( Heart of Ice ) and proved that cartoons could be high art. Played by: Christian Bale

After Batman v Superman , fans were split, but Affleck’s physicality is unmatched. This was the "Frank Miller" Batman brought to life: thick-necked, brutal, and tired. For the first time on film, we saw a Batman who kills without apology (saving Martha Kent). Affleck’s warehouse fight scene is arguably the best live-action Batman combat ever filmed. He represents the "veteran" Batman who has lost his way. Played by: Robert Pattinson

After the Comics Code Authority gutted horror, Batman became pure cheese. Adam West’s Batman is the definitive "Bright Knight." He danced the Batusi, had a shark-repelling Bat-Spray, and never, ever killed anyone. While hardcore fans mock the "Pow!" sound effects, West’s sincerity is untouchable. This version proves Batman works even when he is ridiculous . Played by: Michael Keaton

For over 80 years, Batman has been the most versatile hero in pop culture. Unlike Superman, whose core persona remains relatively constant, Bruce Wayne is a chameleon. He can be a campy jokester, a gothic detective, a brutal vigilante, or a broken father. The cowl fits many men (and sometimes, different interpretations of the same man).