The Batman franchise boasts some of the most intricate movies in the DC Universe, many of which are filled with fascinating details. These hidden gems include clever Easter eggs to the DCU timeline, brilliant narrative foreshadowing, and intricate prop placements that bolster the movie’s depth. As one of the longest running and most popular superheroes, many Batman movie details honor the franchise’s impressive legacy, a precedent that will likely continue into the DCU’s future.

The Batman movie franchise, spanning several decades and numerous iterations, has captivated audiences with its dark, brooding heroes and complex villains. From Tim Burton’s gothic noir vision to Christopher Nolan’s gritty realism and beyond, each director has infused the Batman universe with unique elements that contribute to its enduring appeal. While many may be familiar with the overarching plots and character arcs, the true magic often lies in the intricate details meticulously crafted into each film.

10

The Bat-Man Sketch Was Drawn By Bob Kane

Batman (1989)

In Tim Burton’s Batman (1989), there’s a memorable scene where journalist Alexander Knox receives a sketch of a supposed Batman sighting. This sketch, depicting an exaggerated bat dressed in a pinstriped suit, was a playful nod to the character’s comic book origins. What makes this particular prop notable is that it was drawn and signed by Bob Kane, the co-creator of Batman.

In Batman (1989), the sketch was used to mock Knox and his fevered pursuit of the Caped Crusader by giving him an obviously fake sketch. Instead, Knox received a piece from the comic book originator. Ironically, Bob Kane’s recognition as Batman’s creator was subsequently reconsidered, with a lot of Batman’s design being credited to Bill Finger. Nevertheless, this small but significant detail reflects the filmmakers’ respect for the source material and its creators, adding depth and a touch of nostalgia for those familiar with Batman’s history.

9

The Tragedy-Signalling Popcorn

Batman (1989)

During the infamous “Let’s get nuts” scene in Batman (1989), Vicki Vale drops her popcorn when Bruce Wayne is shot by the Joker in her apartment. It was an intense moment that foreshadowed a deeper connection to Bruce’s past. During a subsequent flashback to the murder of Bruce’s parents, young Bruce is seen carrying popcorn, which he drops during the tragic mugging.

It was during the scene in Vicki Vale when Batman realized that a young Joker had killed his parents. This was triggered when Joker recited his favorite killing line, “Did you ever dance with the Devil by the pale moonlight?” Bruce remembers that his parents’ killer had spoken the phrase. The popcorn serves as another connection between these scenes, recreating the environment in which his parents were murdered. It creates a more visceral link, so subtly deployed it is easy to overlook.

8

The Riddler Can Be Seen Before His Entrance

Batman Forever

When Jim Carrey’s Riddler first meets Tommy Lee Jones’ Two-Face in Batman Forever, Carey is visible before his dramatic entrance. Carrey, dressed in his flamboyant Riddler costume, can be seen standing at the right edge of the frame for a few minutes before his character is supposed to enter the scene. This presence creates an amusing and slightly surreal moment.

It’s unclear whether Jim Riddler’s early presence in the Batman Forever scene was a mistake or a deliberate choice. Regardless, it has thrilling implications for the scene. It is obvious that Carrey is firmly in character while waiting for his entrance, standing to attention and playing with his cane – which even briefly reflects the light. This suggests that the Riddler had arrived early at Two-Face’s base and was eavesdropping on Harvey Dent’s conversation with his female companions, Sugar and Spice.

7

Max Schrek Is Photographed With Mr Freeze

Batman Returns

A fascinating Easter egg appears in Batman Returns on Max Shreck’s office wall. When Selina Kyle is preparing coffee, a photograph featuring Christopher Walken, who plays Shreck, alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger, can be seen. This detail serves as an intriguing nod to the real world and future casting choices within the Batman franchise, adding an extra layer of intertextuality.

Schwarzenegger’s presence on Shrek’s wall was presumably to hint at the business tycoon’s high-profile connections and powerful status. More pertinently, years later, Arnold Schwarzenegger would play the villain Mr. Freeze in Joel Schumacher’s notorious Batman & Robin. It could therefore be interpreted that Max Shreck had previously met Victor Freeze before he was transformed into the frosty foe. Consequently, the disparate 1990s Batman movies can foster a notion of Gotham’s interconnected villainous network, much in the same way as the comic books.

6

Batman Prepares His Two-Face Coins In The Batcave

Batman Forever

A clever detail can be spotted in Batman Forever in the Batcave during the suiting-up scene. On a workbench, a set of decoy coins is visible, hinting at Batman’s strategy to defeat Two-Face later in the film. These coins, resembling Two-Face’s signature double-headed coin, play a crucial role in the climax when Batman uses them to distract and outsmart the villain. This subtle inclusion serves as a testament to Batman’s meticulous planning and preparedness.

This scene in Batman Forever foreshadows his tactical ingenuity, demonstrating his understanding of his adversaries’ weaknesses. This is often referred to as Batman’s prep time, which he can often leverage to overcome insurmountable odds. For keen-eyed viewers, this prop placement enriches the narrative by providing a glimpse into Batman’s preparation process. The presence of the decoy coins in the reinforces his reputation as a master detective and tactician.

5

Joker’s Glasses Line Is An Original Series Callback

Batman (1989)

During the climactic bell tower scene in Batman (1989), Jack Nicholson’s Joker delivers the memorable line, “You wouldn’t hit a guy with glasses, would you?” and jokingly dons a pair of glasses. This line is a clever nod to the 1966 Batman television series, where Batman, played by Adam West, often reminded others, “Remember, never hit a man with glasses.” This reference adds a layer of intertextual humor and nostalgia for audiences familiar with the campy, lighthearted tone of the 1960s show.

By incorporating this line, Batman pays homage to its predecessor while contrasting the darker, more serious tone of Burton’s interpretation. It also highlights the Joker’s mockery and unpredictable nature, as he uses the familiar Batman phrase to taunt the Caped Crusader. This joke bridges the gap between the different eras of Batman, creating a connection despite the wildly different tones and performances.

4

The Dark Knight Rises Repeats A Batman Returns Scene

The Dark Knight Rises

In The Dark Knight Rises, director Christopher Nolan pays homage to Tim Burton’s Batman Returns by repeating the iconic masquerade ball scene. In Batman Return, neither Christian Bale’s Batman nor Anne Hathaway’s Selina Kyle wear masks at the ball, symbolizing the idea that their civilian identities are the true disguises, while their vigilante personas are their authentic selves. This poignant moment underscores the duality of their characters and the complexities of their lives.

In contrast, The Dark Knight Rises presents a slight variation on this theme. While Bruce Wayne again forgoes a mask, Selina Kyle keeps her mask on, adding a layer of intrigue and maintaining her enigmatic presence. This choice emphasizes Selina’s cautious nature and her reluctance to fully reveal herself, even in a moment of vulnerability. By revisiting this scene, Nolan acknowledges the rich history of Batman films while also exploring the same notions of identity and fate.

3

Batman Learns To Walk On Thin Ice

The Dark Knight Rises

In Batman Begins, Bruce Wayne’s training with Ra’s al Ghul includes a moment where he falls through thin ice, symbolizing the harsh lessons he must learn to become Batman. The scene emphasizes his vulnerability and the grueling process of his transformation from a vengeful orphan into a disciplined warrior. Fast-forward to The Dark Knight Rises, and Bruce, now Batman, confronts a similar icy challenge.

Batman approaches Commissioner Gordon on the frozen Gotham River, where several people had previously fallen through the ice to their deaths. Batman is able to navigate the environment safely, highlighting his growth and mastery over the physical and psychological trials he once faced. It symbolizes his preparedness to face his greatest challenge yet: defeating Talia al Ghul, the heir of Ra’s al Ghul. It underscores his evolution into a hero who not only survives but thrives under pressure, ready to protect Gotham from its most formidable threats.

2

Batman Knows Superman’s Weaknesses

Batman v Superman: Dawn Of Justice

A great detail in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice demonstrates Batman’s strategic prowess and extensive preparation. Batman is seen preparing a batch of smoke canisters, which are labeled with “Pb,” the chemical symbol for lead. This is a subtle but significant touch, as lead is the only substance through which Superman cannot see. During their climactic rooftop battle, Batman uses these lead-based smoke canisters to briefly obscure Superman’s vision.

This clever tactic allows Batman to momentarily evade Superman, providing him with the critical opportunity to fire a kryptonite canister and gain the upper hand. Batman’s use of lead smoke in Batman v Superman demonstrates the thorough research he undertakes in understanding his adversaries, highlighting his intellect and strategic foresight. This moment underscores Batman’s reputation as a master tactician who leverages his knowledge and resources to outmaneuver even the most powerful opponents.

1

Joker Kept His Taste In Art

Joker (2019)

The Gotham museum scene in Batman (1989) is a memorable sequence where the Joker wreaks havoc by defacing the artwork and dancing to Prince’s Batman soundtrack. Amid the chaos, he walks past a notable painting, “The Blue Boy” by Thomas Gainsborough. Decades later, in Todd Phillips’ Joker (2019), “The Blue Boy” makes a subtle reappearance, this time hanging in the apartment of Arthur Fleck.

This visual connection between the two movies is a fascinating Easter egg that ties the distinct portrayals of the Joker together through a shared cultural reference. It honors the Batman movie legacy and recalls Jack Nicholson’s distinctly jollier rendition of the character. This makes Joaquin Phoenix’s portrayal feel even more stark and bleak by comparison. This becomes particularly pertinent when Phoenix’s Joker begins to dance in the apartment, recalling the last time Joker danced in Batman’s cinematic history.