36 years after the release of his beloved 1989 classic, Tim Burton's Batman universe, famously dubbed the Burtonverse, continues to evolve in John Jackson Miller’s upcoming novel, “Batman: Revolution”, which is slated to hit shelves on October 28, 2025.
Like its predecessor, last year's “Batman: Resurrection” (also penned by Miller), this new entry delves into the period between Batman (1989) and Batman Returns (1992), bringing back familiar characters while also introducing ones never before seen in the Burtonverse.
Leading the charge is, of course, Michael Keaton’s Dark Knight. And alongside him, familiar faces such as the corrupt Gotham City industrialist Max Shreck—portrayed memorably by Christopher Walken in Returns—make a comeback.
Also returning to the fold is Bruce Wayne's loyal butler Alfred Pennyworth, a role forever defined by Michael Gough in the original four-film series (1989's Batman through Joel Schumacher's Batman & Robin), as well as Commissioner James Gordon (Pat Hingle).
But what also makes this novel compelling, like “Resurrection,” is its delicate balance between honoring the past and charting new territory.
Related: ‘Batman' (1989) Sequel Expands the Burtonverse With a New Villain
“Both ‘Resurrection’ and ‘Revolution’ take place between Batman and Returns, and I tried to write them both as if they came out then, too — drawing on characters who appeared in both films,” he said in a statement, explaining how “Batman: Revolution” will continue to deepen the lore of the Burtonverse. “You’ll see old favorites — and some new ones, which I again approached with an eye to Tim Burton’s tragi-comic aesthetic.”
The new book also introduces new characters, such as the Burtonverse's answer to The Riddler, whose real name is Norman Pinkus.
For longtime fans and newcomers alike, “Revolution” is shaping up to be a must-read installment. It's set to hit shelves on October 28, 2025.
Are you excited to be seeing more of Michael Keaton's Dark Knight? Let Inside the Magic know in the comments down below!
