Since Tim Burton’s Batman (1989) hit theaters, the director’s dark, brooding Gotham City has become a hallmark of superhero cinema. With Batman Returns (1992) building on that vision, fans have long wondered what other stories might unfold in this gothic universe.
Now, the new novel “Batman: Resurrection” by John Jackson Miller offers an answer, reintroducing readers to the Burtonverse and unveiling a thrilling new villain: Clayface.
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Set after the events of Batman (1989), “Batman: Resurrection” explores the aftermath of The Joker’s chemical attack on Gotham City. While The Joker (Jack Nicholson) is no longer a direct threat, the devastation he left behind has unforeseen consequences.
The novel introduces Karlo Babić, a stage actor whose exposure to the chemical weapon “Smylex” transforms him into Clayface.
Clayface’s origin story is one of tragedy, aligning perfectly with the Burtonverse’s penchant for complex, emotionally driven villains. His inclusion adds depth to the Rogues Gallery while giving fans a fresh take on a lesser-seen Batman foe.
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The novel doesn’t just stop with Clayface. Fans of the original Burton films will be delighted to see the return of Bruce Wayne/Batman (Michael Keaton), Selina Kyle/Catwoman (Michelle Pfeiffer), and Alfred Pennyworth. Even Alexander Knox (Robert Wuhl) and Max Shreck (Christopher Walken) also make appearances, tying the novel seamlessly to the established Burtonverse lore.
By bringing these characters back, “Batman: Resurrection” balances nostalgia with innovation. It respects the foundation laid by Burton while pushing the story into uncharted territory.
For fans who grew up with Burton’s films, the book is a love letter to the world they fell in love with. Available in hard copy and audiobook formats, the novel serves as a canonical continuation of the 1989 film, offering a unique perspective on Gotham’s enduring legacy.
Do you think Clayface is the right choice for the Burtonverse? What other villains or stories would you like to see explored? Let us know in the comments below!
