10 Shows & Movies Similar to The Batman (2004)

Description: Batman: The Animated Series is similar to The Batman (2004) in its dark, noir-inspired aesthetic and mature storytelling. Both series explore the psychological depth of Bruce Wayne and his rogues' gallery, with a focus on detective work and crime-solving. The art deco style and gothic atmosphere are also shared elements.

Fact: The series introduced Harley Quinn, who later became a major DC Comics character. Kevin Conroy and Mark Hamill's performances as Batman and the Joker are iconic. The show won four Daytime Emmy Awards.

Description: Mask of the Phantasm shares The Batman's noir influences and focus on Batman's early years. Both explore Bruce Wayne's psychology and feature mysterious new villains in Gotham. The film's gothic aesthetic and tragic romance elements are similar to The Batman's tone.

Fact: This was the first Batman animated feature film. It was originally planned as a direct-to-video release. The film features Mark Hamill's iconic Joker performance.

Description: Batman Beyond shares The Batman's futuristic take on Gotham, though it's set further in the future. Both series feature a younger Batman (Terry McGinnis in Beyond) and explore themes of legacy and technology's role in crimefighting. The high-tech gadgets and cyberpunk elements are reminiscent of The Batman's aesthetic.

Fact: The series was originally pitched as 'Batman of the Future'. It features an elderly Bruce Wayne mentoring the new Batman. The Jokerz gang pays homage to Batman's greatest foe.

Description: Justice League shares The Batman's continuity (both are part of the DC Animated Universe) and features Batman as a key member. Both series showcase Batman's strategic mind and detective skills in team settings. The animation style and voice cast (Kevin Conroy as Batman) are consistent between both.

Fact: This was the first animated series to feature the entire Justice League. The series was initially planned to be called 'Justice Lords'. It introduced the 'Batman embarrasses Green Lantern' meme.

Description: Teen Titans shares The Batman's focus on younger heroes and blends action with character development. Both series feature Robin (Dick Grayson) in a prominent role and explore themes of teamwork and identity. The anime-inspired action sequences are somewhat similar to The Batman's stylized fights.

Fact: The series was inspired by Japanese anime aesthetics. It introduced many fans to lesser-known Titans like Cyborg and Raven. The show's theme song became iconic.

Description: Young Justice shares The Batman's focus on younger heroes and their development. Both series balance action with character-driven storytelling and feature complex, serialized plots. The attention to team dynamics and covert operations is similar to The Batman's approach.

Fact: The series was initially canceled after two seasons but revived due to fan demand. It features a younger version of Dick Grayson as Robin. The show explores the wider DC Universe beyond just Batman characters.

Description: While more comedic than The Batman, Teen Titans Go! shares its younger take on DC's heroes. Both series feature Robin (though very differently portrayed) and explore superhero tropes, albeit in contrasting tones. The animation style, while more exaggerated, shares some DNA with The Batman's designs.

Fact: The series is a comedic spin-off of the 2003 Teen Titans. It has been criticized by some fans for being too silly. The show frequently breaks the fourth wall.

Description: Gotham shares The Batman's focus on a younger Bruce Wayne and the origins of his rogues' gallery. Both explore Gotham's criminal underworld and the corruption that shapes the city. The series' darker tone and detective elements align with The Batman's approach.

Fact: The show features early versions of many Batman villains before they become costumed criminals. It was originally conceived as a Commissioner Gordon prequel. The series finale jumps ahead to Bruce's first year as Batman.

Description: Justice League Unlimited continues the same continuity as The Batman (2004) and expands on Batman's role in a larger superhero world. Both series feature sophisticated storytelling and character development. The Cadmus arc in particular explores themes of distrust and surveillance that resonate with The Batman's tone.

Fact: The series featured nearly every DC hero available at the time. It included more obscure characters like the Question and Vigilante. The show was praised for its mature storytelling.

Description: Batman: Under the Red Hood shares The Batman's darker tone and exploration of Batman's moral code. Both deal with themes of loss, vengeance, and the consequences of vigilantism. The film's action sequences and detective elements are similar to The Batman's approach.

Fact: The film adapts a famous comic storyline by Judd Winick. It features Jensen Ackles as Jason Todd/Red Hood. The story explores Batman's greatest failure.