Official promotional poster. Rights belong to the respective rights holders.
Read the film reference Availability and pricing vary by region.The BatmanA movie brief.
2022 / Superhero / Directed by Matt Reeves
The Dark Knight returns to protect his city.
What is The Batman about?
Bruce Wayne is a billionaire philanthropist who has been fighting crime as Batman for years. A new villain, the Riddler, is terrorizing Gotham City, and Batman must stop him.
Five things to know.
Setup
The film takes place in a dark and gritty Gotham City, where crime is rampant and the police are struggling to keep up.
World
The film features a vast array of characters from the Batman universe, including Commissioner Gordon, Catwoman, and the Riddler.
Pressure
Batman is under pressure to stop the Riddler, who is leaving a trail of clues and puzzles for him to solve.
Craft
The film features a blend of action, suspense, and mystery, with a focus on Batman's detective skills.
Viewing Note
The film is a standalone story that does not require prior knowledge of the Batman universe, but fans of the character will appreciate the references and nods to classic Batman stories.
A thought to take with you.
Bruce's investigation of the Riddler forces him to ask whether fear alone can distinguish a protector from the corruption he opposes. Following clues through Gotham also makes the city's institutions part of the mystery, with inherited wealth and public trust linked to the case.
Is it your kind of movie?
Choose it for a rain-soaked detective story with a younger Batman and a crime-scene investigation. It is slower and more noir-focused than many superhero films.
Sources & scope
This AI-assisted brief is based on the linked secondary reference. Facts and interpretation are separated; it does not claim personal viewing or independent expert review.
Source details checked September 8, 2026. Suggest a correction · Our editorial approach