Batman has been around since 1939— not too far off a hundred years— and since then, he’s made quite a name for himself. This comic book hero has been the star of TV shows, movies, computer games, and can even find no-wagering slots and amusement park rides dedicated to the Dark Knight. He also made an unforgettable and highly amusing cameo in the Only Fools and Horses Christmas special, “Heroes and Villains.”
Given that there have been so many representations of him, comparisons are unavoidable. Over the years, he has been portrayed by many top actors, each bringing their own unique interpretation to the iconic role— some more successfully than others.
Here, we’re going to look at some of those portrayals and try to answer the million-dollar question: Which Batman was best?
Lewis G. Wilson (1943)
Going back to the 1940s, we start with Lewis G. Wilson, the first actor to don the cape and cowl, portraying the Caped Crusader in the 1943 film serial Batman. At just 23 years old, his portrayal laid the foundation for many future adaptations.
At the time, there was nothing to compare it to—and it sufficed. Looking back, however, he was young, and many would argue that while his performance was serviceable, his characterization lacked the depth and complexity that later interpretations would bring.
Robert Lowery (1949)
Just six years later, in the 1949 serial Batman and Robin, Robert Lowery took over the role, bringing a noticeable change to the character. Lowery’s portrayal emphasized a more athletic and action-oriented Batman, focusing on the character’s physical prowess. Some might say he added more “hero” to the hero.
Adam West (1966-1968)
It may have been decades ago, but Adam West’s portrayal in the 1960s TV series and the 1966 film Batman: The Movie remains legendary. He embodied the comic book character in a way that felt true to the era—complete comic book action.
West introduced a campier, more lighthearted version of the Dark Knight—and it worked. His charismatic performance made Batman a household name, and his version remains hugely popular today thanks to its nostalgic charm. There’s no doubt that West set the stage for Batman’s mainstream success.
Michael Keaton (1989-1992)
More than 20 years later, Michael Keaton took on the role, at a time when Adam West’s portrayal was a distant memory for some and completely unknown to younger audiences.
Keaton redefined Batman in Tim Burton’s Batman (1989) and Batman Returns (1992). His performance was significantly darker, striking the right balance between Bruce Wayne’s brooding nature and his heroic intensity. Keaton’s take introduced audiences to a more serious and complex Batman, setting the tone for future iterations.
Val Kilmer (1995)
Val Kilmer took on the role for a single outing in Batman Forever (1995). His portrayal presented a more introspective Bruce Wayne, delving deeper into the character’s psyche. While the film had a lighter tone than its predecessors, Kilmer’s performance was praised for its depth and seriousness.
George Clooney (1997)
George Clooney, known for his role as Dr. Ross in ER, became Batman in Batman & Robin (1997). Let’s be honest—the film received a poor critical reception, and Clooney’s portrayal is unlikely to be remembered as the most iconic. However, his undeniable charm and charisma brought a unique take on Bruce Wayne. Still, for most fans, his performance lacked the darker elements that define the character.
Christian Bale (2005-2012)
What Clooney’s Batman lacked in darkness, Christian Bale delivered in abundance in Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight trilogy. Bale’s portrayal was praised for its realism and depth, and his intense performance—coupled with a remarkable physical transformation—was seen as the perfect embodiment of a tortured yet determined Batman. To many, Bale remains the ultimate Dark Knight.
Ben Affleck (2016-2021)
Many were skeptical when Ben Affleck was cast as Batman, but his performance exceeded expectations. Debuting in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016), his Batman was an older, battle-worn hero, bringing a sense of gravitas and experience that surprised audiences.
Robert Pattinson (2022)
Robert Pattinson’s casting was another surprise, but his portrayal in The Batman (2022) offered a fresh take on the character. Focusing on Batman’s detective skills and early years as a vigilante, Pattinson delivered a nuanced performance that added new layers to the hero, earning widespread praise.
Ultimately, determining the best Batman is a matter of taste. Some prefer Bale’s dark intensity, while others enjoy West’s nostalgic humour. Which version of Batman do you think is the best?
