With Universal Studios Great Britain preparing to break ground in Bedfordshire, speculation has swirled about what franchises might anchor the park’s themed lands.
Jurassic World, The Lord of the Rings, and Paddington have all been floated as potential candidates, though nothing is confirmed. But what about Tim Burton’s Batman? Could Gotham’s quasi-gothic towers and neon-lit alleys finally get the theme park treatment?
The idea is enticing, but there’s one major roadblock: Universal doesn’t hold the rights to Batman. Warner Bros. owns DC Comics, and Batman already has a foothold in the theme park world through DC Universe, an area present at several Six Flags parks.
That makes a Burtonverse land at Universal a long shot.
Still, it’s fun to imagine. The two films Burton directed—Batman (1989) and Batman Returns (1992)—remain some of the most beloved comic book movies ever made. Their theatrical style, larger-than-life villains, and Danny Elfman’s iconic score seem tailor-made for an immersive attraction.
Guests could ride a Batmobile simulator, wander through a Joker-themed funhouse, or explore Penguin’s frozen lair. Gotham’s distinct look is practically begging for theme park translation.
Related: Michael Keaton’s Batman Will Be Recast in New ‘Batman’ (1989) Sequel | Disney Dining
The larger question is whether Universal should finally go toe to toe with Disney when it comes to superheroes. Disney has Marvel locked down, with sprawling Avengers-themed lands across its parks. Universal, meanwhile, leans on its crown jewels: Jurassic Park and Harry Potter. But maybe that’s not enough anymore.
Maybe the U.K. resort needs to bring in Batman and Superman to level the playing field.
For now, Universal hasn’t hinted that DC properties are even under consideration, and it would take a major licensing deal with Warner Bros. to make it possible. But if Universal is truly positioning its Bedfordshire park as a global contender in the theme park resort arena, it might need to think bigger.
Wizards and dinosaurs are impressive—but Gotham’s skyline could be the bold swing Universal needs.
Would you like to see Batman (1989) in Universal Studios GB? Do you think it could work? Let us know in the comments down below!
