7.8/10
85% Critics / 87% Audience
The Batman is a 2022 American superhero film based on the DC Comics character Batman. Directed by Matt Reeves, who co-wrote the screenplay with Peter Craig, the film stars Robert Pattinson as Bruce Wayne / Batman alongside Zoë Kravitz, Paul Dano, Jeffrey Wright, John Turturro, Peter Sarsgaard, Andy Serkis, and Colin Farrell.
This reboot moves away from the DCEU continuity to explore a younger Batman in his early years of crime-fighting. The story follows Batman as he investigates a string of murders committed by the Riddler, uncovering deep-rooted corruption in Gotham City with ties to his own family.
Released on March 4, 2022, after multiple COVID-19 delays, The Batman became a commercial and critical success, grossing over $772 million worldwide and earning praise for its noir-inspired tone, performances, and grounded detective story. It was nominated for three Academy Awards and set the stage for a new trilogy known as the Batman Epic Crime Saga.
The Batman (2022 Film) – Official Trailer
The Plot in Brief
In his second year as Gotham’s masked vigilante, Batman is drawn into a cat-and-mouse game with the Riddler, a mysterious killer targeting the city’s elite. Teaming up with Lt. Jim Gordon, Batman uncovers a web of corruption involving mob boss Carmine Falcone, the Penguin, and city officials.
The investigation forces Bruce Wayne to confront uncomfortable truths about his family’s past, Selina Kyle’s own vendetta against Falcone, and the consequences of his own crusade.
The climax sees Gotham plunged into chaos as the Riddler’s followers enact a deadly plan, pushing Batman to evolve from an agent of vengeance into a symbol of hope.
Themes and Style
Matt Reeves crafted The Batman as a neo-noir detective story, drawing inspiration from The Long Halloween and classic thrillers. The film examines:
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Class conflict & inequality – contrasting Batman’s privileged upbringing with the harsh realities faced by the Riddler and Selina Kyle.
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Moral ambiguity – questioning Batman’s ethics and whether his mission truly helps Gotham.
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Transformation – shifting Batman’s role from vengeance to hope.
The tone is darker and more grounded than many previous adaptations, with a heavy emphasis on realism, atmosphere, and procedural investigation.
Is The Batman Worth Watching?
Absolutely. This is one of the most distinctive Batman films ever made — a slow-burn detective thriller that showcases Gotham as a grim, rain-soaked character in its own right.
Robert Pattinson’s portrayal is intense and vulnerable, Zoë Kravitz brings depth to Selina Kyle, and Paul Dano’s Riddler is chillingly unsettling.
If you enjoy character-driven storytelling, moral complexity, and a Batman film that leans into mystery rather than pure action, The Batman is a must-watch.
Watch Order for Batman Films
Standard Chronological Order (Main Batman Films)
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Batman (1989)
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Batman Returns (1992)
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Batman Forever (1995)
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Batman & Robin (1997)
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Batman Begins (2005)
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The Dark Knight (2008)
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The Dark Knight Rises (2012)
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Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016)
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Justice League (2017) / Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021)
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The Batman (2022) – standalone reboot
Expanded Batman Watch Order (Including Spin-offs & TV)
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Gotham (2014–2019, TV series – prequel)
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Joker (2019 – thematic connection, alternate continuity)
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The Batman (2022)
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The Penguin (2024 – TV spin-off from The Batman)
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The Batman: Part II (2027 – upcoming sequel)
FAQs About The Batman
Q: Is The Batman connected to the DCEU?
No, it exists in its own continuity called the Batman Epic Crime Saga, separate from the DCEU.
Q: Who plays the main villain?
Paul Dano plays Edward Nashton, also known as the Riddler.
Q: Will there be a sequel?
Yes, The Batman: Part II is scheduled for release on October 1, 2027.
Q: Is this Batman more of a detective?
Yes, this film focuses heavily on Batman’s detective skills, making it more investigative in tone than most previous live-action versions.
Q: Is The Batman appropriate for kids?
It’s darker and more violent than many superhero films, so it may not be suitable for younger children.
Conclusion
The Batman redefines the Dark Knight for a new generation, emphasizing investigation, atmosphere, and moral complexity over explosive spectacle.
With a gripping central mystery, standout performances, and a richly realized Gotham, it sets the foundation for a powerful trilogy that promises to explore Batman’s world in greater depth.
If you’re looking for a superhero film that challenges conventions and offers a fresh perspective on an iconic character, The Batman delivers.
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