Batman has always been a heavyweight of the superhero film genre, but animated adventures have been where the Dark Knight hit his stride. Batman’s animated films over the years not only entertained fans but also gained legitimate critical acclaim. Using Rotten Tomatoes ratings as our compass, let’s swing through the top Batman animated films—some of which even surpass their live-action counterparts.
10. Merry Little Batman (2023) – 97%
Who’d have thought that a quirky, kid-friendly holiday special would turn out to be the highest-rated Batman film on Rotten Tomatoes? “Merry Little Batman” premiered on Prime Video and immediately won over critics with its sweet Christmas story involving Damian Wayne joining forces with his father. With an impressive 97% score, it surpasses even the most renowned live-action blockbusters. Though its count of reviews is lower than those for “The Dark Knight,” its feat remains astounding. It’s a testament to the fact that sometimes holiday cheer and a ton of Bat-family fun can win even the grumpiest critics over.
9. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018) – 97%
Okay, this is not a Batman film, but it’s notable because it steals the animated superhero attention. “Into the Spider-Verse” raised the bar for what animated superhero movies could do, and its effects can be seen in the brash storytelling and visual panache of recent Batman animated efforts.
8. The LEGO Batman Movie (2017) – 89%
If you believed the world couldn’t possibly get any more humorous with Batman, think again. “The LEGO Batman Movie” is a hilarious, self-savvy run through Gotham, filled to the brim with jokes, heart, and some of the greatest animation around. Critics adored its kid-friendly pandemonium and witty references to Batman’s lengthy history, giving it the only Certified Fresh badge on a Batman animated movie that has enough reviews to qualify.
7. Batman: Mask of the Phantasm (1993) – 86%
Often hailed as one of the best Batman stories ever told, “Mask of the Phantasm” brought the gravitas and emotional depth of “Batman: The Animated Series” to the big screen. Kevin Conroy’s iconic voice performance and a noir-inspired plot have kept this film in the upper echelon of superhero cinema for over three decades.
6. Batman & Mr. Freeze: SubZero (1998) – 92%
This direct-to-video classic is a fan favorite for good reason. “SubZero” produces a compact, emotionally resonant tale with Mr. Freeze at its chilly core, and its animation and storytelling earned the approval of critics. It’s essential viewing for anyone who enjoys the tragic dimension of the villains of Gotham.
5. Batman: Year One (2011) – 89%
Reimagining Frank Miller’s classic comic, “Year One” reverts Batman to his dark roots. The movie’s loyal adaptation and seasoned voice talent (Bryan Cranston as Jim Gordon) got a critical thumbs-up and a standing ovation from fans.
4. Batman: The Long Halloween, Part Two (2021) – 100%
This two-part retelling of the popular Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale story explores the depths of Gotham’s underworld criminal element. Critics were wowed by its mature theme, storytelling, and stylish animation, making it a standout in recent releases.
3. Batman: Bad Blood (2016) – 100%
When Batman disappears, it’s the job of his friends to protect Gotham. “Bad Blood” unites Nightwing, Batwoman, and others in a high-stakes mission that was considered fresh and exciting by critics.
2. Batman vs. Robin (2015) – 100%
The Bruce-Damian Wayne dynamic is the focus of this action-packed installment. With a critical perfect score, it’s obvious that the Bat-family soap opera is just as appealing as the fights.
1. Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker (2000) – 93%
In an alternate Gotham of the future, this one provides Mark Hamill’s Joker with a thrilling exit and solidifies Terry McGinnis as a deserving heir to Bruce Wayne. Praise was heaped upon its dark tone and emotional stakes, showing that Batman’s legacy is in safe hands, whether by timeline.
Though live-action Batman movies such as “The Dark Knight” and “Batman Returns” are all but cemented into film history, these animated escapades demonstrate that the most gutsy and emotional tales are at times written in ink and pixels. Whether you’re an ardent Bat-enthusiast or simply in the market for your next superhero fix, these highest-rated animated films illustrate that the Caped Crusader’s finest exploits may just be the ones you have yet to see.