Batman (1989 film)

Batman is a 1989 American superhero film directed by Tim Burton and starring Michael Keaton as Bruce Wayne/Batman, Jack Nicholson as Jack Napier/The Joker, and Kim Basinger as Vicki Vale. It is based on the DC Comics character of the same name. The film tells the story of Batman's emergence as a crime fighter in Gotham City, battling against the psychopathic Joker, who is responsible for the murder of Bruce Wayne's parents.

The film departs significantly from the lighthearted portrayal of Batman in the 1960s television series, opting for a darker and more serious tone, closer to the comic books. Production design emphasized a gothic and decaying Gotham City, contributing to the film's distinctive visual style.

Batman was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $400 million worldwide and becoming the highest-grossing film of 1989. It revitalized the superhero film genre and spawned a series of sequels, including Batman Returns (1992), also directed by Tim Burton. The film's success is often credited to its unique artistic vision, memorable performances, and groundbreaking marketing campaign. It received significant acclaim for its score by Danny Elfman and its overall aesthetic. The film is considered a landmark in the history of superhero cinema.