Ranking the 10 Best Batman Animated Movies

For over 80 years, Batman has captivated audiences across comics, live-action films, and animation. While the Dark Knight's big-screen adventures tend to grab the headlines, his animated outings have often allowed for deeper, more complex storytelling. DC's animated films have given Batman the freedom to explore darker themes and more nuanced character development than many live-action adaptations. However, not all Batman animated movies are created equal. This ranking examines the best of Batman's animated filmography, considering factors like storytelling depth, animation quality, and faithfulness to the character's essence.

10. Batman Unlimited: Animal Instincts (2015)

Image: Warner Bros. Animation

Batman teams up with Red Robin, Nightwing, Green Arrow, and The Flash to take on the Animilitia - a group of animal-themed villains led by The Penguin. 

The film delivers plenty of action and colorful visuals that younger viewers will enjoy. The lighter tone and focus on teamwork make for some fun dynamics between the heroes. However, the simplified plot and lack of meaningful character development prevent it from reaching the heights of Batman's more mature animated adventures. While it’s a solid choice for introducing kids to the world of Batman, longtime fans may find it lacking in substance. The animation quality is bright and energetic, fitting its more family-friendly approach, but it doesn't push any boundaries in terms of style or technique.

9. Batman and Harley Quinn (2017)

Image: Warner Bros. Animation

Batman and Nightwing reluctantly partner with Harley Quinn to stop Poison Ivy and the Floronic Man from unleashing a plant-based apocalypse. 

The film attempts to blend the darker elements of Batman's world with Harley Quinn's irreverent humor, resulting in an uneven tone that doesn't quite gel. Harley's antics provide some genuinely funny moments, and Poison Ivy makes for an interesting antagonist. However, the film's oscillation between mature themes and slapstick comedy leaves it feeling disjointed.

While it aims to capture the spirit of the beloved Batman: The Animated Series, it falls short in terms of storytelling depth and character consistency. The animation style is a nostalgic throwback, but the inconsistent tone undermines its effectiveness.

8. Batman: Gotham Knight (2008)

Image: Warner Bros. Animation

This unique anthology film consists of six short stories, each made by different Japanese animation studios Set between the events of Batman Begins and The Dark Knight, these loosely connected vignettes offer different interpretations of Batman and his world.

The experimental approach yields some visually stunning results, with animation styles ranging from anime-inspired to noir. For example, Have I Got a Story for You showcases a stylized, almost abstract take on Batman, while Deadshot offers a gritty, realistic portrayal. Even though the narratives are quite disjointed from each other, the project demonstrates Batman's versatility as a character and how he can be effectively portrayed through various artistic lenses.

7. Batman: Bad Blood (2016)

Image: Warner Bros. Animation

When Batman goes missing and is presumed dead, Nightwing dons the cape and cowl while teaming up with Batwoman and Batwing to uncover the truth. 

This film expands the Bat-family in interesting ways, particularly with the introduction of Batwoman and Batwing. The character dynamics between the various members of the Bat-family provide some compelling moments, even if the movie feels overcrowded at times.

Batman: Bad Blood is an entertaining entry in the Batman animated canon, with animation quality that is solid, fluid, and action-packed. After all, it’s always a fun time whenever the whole family comes together and fight crime. 

6. Batman: The Killing Joke (2016)

Image: Warner Bros. Animation

Based on Alan Moore's seminal graphic novel, this adaptation explores the Joker's murky origin story and his attempt to drive Commissioner Gordon and Batman insane by committing unimaginable attacks on Barbara Gordon. 

The second half of the film offers a faithful adaptation of the source material, capturing the psychological horror and moral ambiguity that made the graphic novel so impactful. However, the film's controversial added prologue focusing on Batman and Batgirl's relationship feels out of character and detracts from the main story. This led to some outcry from fans at the time of its initial release. Regardless of that, the film is still a solid adaptation of one of the most iconic Batman stories of all time. 

5. Batman vs. Robin (2015)

Image: Warner Bros. Animation

This entry delves into the complex relationship between Bruce Wayne and his son Damian, the new Robin. As Damian struggles with his place in Batman's world, they confront the sinister Court of Owls, testing their bond and differing ideologies.

The film excels in its exploration of the father-son dynamic between Bruce and Damian, touching on themes of legacy, rebellion, and morality. The inclusion of the Court of Owls adds depth to Gotham's mythology as well, as they have become a vital part of DC in recent years. While some subplots feel underdeveloped, the emotional core of the story and strong character work make this a solid entry in Batman's animated filmography.

4. Batman: Year One (2011)

Image: Warner Bros. Animation

Adapting Frank Miller's influential graphic novel, this film chronicles Bruce Wayne's first year as Batman alongside Jim Gordon's early days in Gotham City. 

The film's faithful adaptation captures the noir-inspired tone of Miller's work, with Bryan Cranston delivering a standout performance as Jim Gordon. By focusing equally on Gordon and Batman, the narrative gains added depth and nuance. Year One remains a compelling look at Batman's beginnings, offering a gritty, grounded take on the character's origins. The animation style perfectly complements the story's noir elements, creating a visually distinct entry in Batman's animated canon.

3. Batman: Mask of the Phantasm (1993)

Image: Warner Bros. Animation

Batman confronts a mysterious new vigilante, the Phantasm, while grappling with his past and a lost love. 

Often cited as one of the greatest Batman films ever made, regardless of the medium, Mask of the Phantasm delves deep into Bruce Wayne's psyche, exploring the sacrifices he's made to become Batman. With its mature themes of love, loss, and vengeance, the film offers a nuanced portrayal of Batman rarely seen in animation. 

The original villain, the Phantasm, is a worthy addition to Batman's rogues gallery. While the animation style may feel slightly dated compared to more recent entries, the engaging mystery makes this a true classic that continues to influence Batman stories across all media.

2. Batman: Under the Red Hood (2010)

Image: Warner Bros. Animation

Batman faces off against a lethal new vigilante, the Red Hood, forcing him to confront the tragic past of Jason Todd, the former Robin. 

This film masterfully balances action, emotion, and moral complexity as it challenges Batman's no-kill rule and explores the consequences of his choices. Under the Red Hood stands out for its deep emotional core and compelling narrative. The voice acting is superb across the board, bringing gravitas to the complex relationships between Batman, Red Hood, and the Joker. 

The film's exploration of loss, redemption, and the toll of Batman's crusade makes it one of the most emotionally resonant entries in his animated canon. Its success paved the way for more mature, character-driven stories in DC's animated films.

1. The Dark Knight Returns Part 1 & 2 (2012-2013)

Image: Warner Bros. Animation

Set in a dystopian future where an aging Bruce Wayne has retired from crime-fighting, these two films adapt Frank Miller's seminal graphic novel. Forced to don the cape and cowl once more, Batman must confront old enemies and a corrupt government in a darker, more brutal Gotham City.

The Dark Knight Returns offers a definitive take on an older, more world-weary Batman. The exploration of Bruce Wayne grappling with his legacy and Gotham's decay makes for a powerful character study. With its grim tone and unflinching portrayal of violence, these films push the boundaries of what's possible in superhero animation. While the brutality may not appeal to all viewers, the depth of storytelling and faithful adaptation of Miller's work make this the pinnacle of Batman's animated filmography. 

Batman's animated adventures have allowed the character to explore darker themes and more complex storytelling than many of his live-action outings. The films that top this list succeed by capturing Batman's essence - his inner struggles, his unwavering determination, and his never-ending battle for Gotham's soul. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the world of The Dark Knight, these animated films offer a rich exploration of one of comics' most enduring characters. Batman's legacy in animated movies continues to captivate audiences and push the boundaries of superhero storytelling.