New ‘Batman’ (1989) Sequel Resurrects Tim Burton’s Lost Third Film

In the world of superhero cinema, Tim Burton’s Batman (1989) is often hailed as one of the most influential films of its genre. Burton’s gothic take on the Dark Knight, paired with Michael Keaton’s performance, set the stage for the future of comic book adaptations.

While Batman Returns (1992) continued the story, it was the project that never came to fruition—Batman 3—that fans have long wondered about. Fortunately, the upcoming novel “Batman: Revolution” will offer a glimpse into the untold story, giving fans a rare chance to experience the continuation of Tim Burton’s vision for Gotham City.

The 1990s saw the emergence of lighter superhero films, and Warner Bros. decided to take a different approach, bringing in Joel Schumacher to direct Batman Forever (1995).

While Schumacher’s take on Batman was far more family-friendly, many fans still look back with curiosity at the darker path that Burton was poised to continue. That path was forged in last year’s “Batman: Resurrection,” the novel by John Jackson Miller that bridges the gap between Burton’s two Batman films.

Now, Miller’s second book, “Batman: Revolution,” will continue to flesh out the narrow space between those films, while building upon the lore established on screen.

Set for release later this year, the sequel introduces a new villain—The Riddler—who, in this universe, is a far cry from Jim Carrey’s portrayal in Batman Forever. Instead, the character, Norman Pinkus, is a vulnerable yet brilliant copy boy at the Gotham Globe.

Burton’s lost third Batman film was expected to star Robin Williams as the iconic Rogues Gallery villain.

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For those looking for familiar faces, the novel won’t disappoint. Like “Resurrection,” Michael Keaton’s Bruce Wayne/Batman, Michael Gough’s Alfred Pennyworth, Pat Hingle’s Commissioner James Gordon, and Billy Dee Williams’ Harvey Dent, all return.

Much like DC Comics’ “Batman ’89” series, Miller’s novels are a true continuation of the universe Burton created. The inclusion of characters such as Michelle Pfeiffer’s Selina Kyle (before she becomes Catwoman) and Christopher Walken’s Max Shreck also enhances the feeling that this novel takes place between the 1989 film and Returns.

For fans of Burton’s darker, atmospheric Gotham, “Batman: Revolution” represents a return to the world that might have been. Though it’s obviously not a film, it still offers a tantalizing look at how the story could have evolved, had Burton remained at the helm.

“Revolution” hits bookshelves in 2025. It will be available in hardcover, eBook, and audiobook formats. For more information, visit Penguin Random House.

“Resurrection” is now available to purchase across all formats.

Are you excited to be seeing more of Michael Keaton’s Dark Knight? Let us know in the comments down below!