Batman character history. Original animated films of the DC Universe

(Batman) was originally written as Bat-Man, his real name Bruce Wayne- a fictional superhero character appearing in the universe . He debuted in a comic called Detective comics No. 27 (May 1939). The character was created by artist Bob Kane in collaboration with writer Bill Finger, but Kane is officially the sole creator of the character.

Batman took 2nd place on the list " One hundred best heroes comics of all time"According to IGN.

Biography

Wealthy philanthropist Thomas Wayne, his wife, Martha, and their 8-year-old son, Bruce Wayne, were leaving a movie theater at 10:47 p.m. As they set foot on Park Row (now called Crime Alley), a gun-toting gunman named Joe Chill approached them from the shadows to steal the pearl necklace Martha was wearing. Thomas, approaching the gunman to protect his wife, was shot by Chill, causing Martha to scream. Chill then shot at her, saying, "This will make you shut up!" Bruce, traumatized by the death of his parents, will never be the same. Later, Bruce was raised by his wise and loyal butler, Alfred Pennyworth, Bruce also inherited his family's large fortune, as well as his father's company, Wayne Enterprises. Standing at the gravestones of his parents, Bruce swore an oath to avenge the death of his parents.

Despite financial security, happiness eluded Bruce. Young Bruce was comforted by Doctor Leslie Thompkins, who helped him cope with the death of his parents and find a purpose in life. At the age of fourteen, Bruce began a twelve-year journey around the world, seeking out experts in various fields, preparing himself spiritually and physically. Academically, he studied at Cambridge in England, Sorbonne in France and other famous European universities. A Frenchman named Henri Ducard taught him how to properly track people, a ninja named Kiriji taught him stealth, an African hillbilly taught him the arts of hunting, and Nepalese monks taught him healing.

Bruce returned to Gotham City, where he became a vigilante. But despite all his honed skills, he knew something was missing. Bruce believed that criminals were "superstitious and cowardly", and in order to rid Gotham of evil, he needed to change himself, and become a fearsome symbol of the city that would strike fear into the hearts of criminals. While Bruce was in his father's office, a large bat broke through the glass in the window. Bruce took this as an omen and remembered his fear of bats when he was still a child. This became his symbol; The Bat will sow fear in the cold world of Gotham. Using his large fortune, Bruce designed a suit and modern equipment, thus beginning a difficult double life: during the day, he will be the owner of a billion dollar fortune, a playboy and businessman, Bruce Wayne, and at night, he is Batman.

Character evolution

Golden age

From its first appearance in Detective Comics#27 in 1939, Batman was immediately introduced as a crime fighter. Bruce Wayne's childhood story was revealed in issue #33 and later fleshed out in issue #46. According to these issues, Bruce was born on February 19 to Thomas and Martha Wayne, wealthy Gotham industrialists involved in charity and improvement of the city, but Thomas Wayne worked as a doctor in a hospital instead of being involved in a corporation. Bruce grew up in the Wayne family mansion in the suburbs of Gotham and grew up as a privileged child until he was eight years old, until his parents died in front of little Bruce at the hands of petty gangster Joe Chill on the way from the cinema. At his parents' funeral, Bruce vowed to avenge his parents' death and to eradicate crime in Gotham. He goes through intense physical training, is trained in martial arts, possession of firearms and bladed weapons, surveillance and espionage skills, but understands that physical fitness alone is not enough. Wayne believed that “criminals are quite superstitious and cowardly,” and therefore his appearance should inspire fear in them. He searched suitable image, at that time a bat flew into the window, and Bruce decided to take its image as a basis and take the pseudonym Batman.

Early in his career, Batman was negatively perceived by the police, who considered the "masked vigilante" to be nothing more than a psychopath. At that time, Bruce had a fiancee, Julie Madison, and a little later Wayne takes in the orphan Dick Grayson, who was a circus acrobat, who became his partner Robin. Batman becomes one of the founders of the Justice Society of America and, together with, an honorary member of it. The city's police begin to treat him more favorably, and he soon receives the title of honorary detective of the Gotham City Police Department. Some time later, Alfred Pennyworth, the butler of the Wayne couple, arrives in the city and, after he learns the secret of Batman's identity, becomes his ally and assistant.

silver Age

The beginning of the Silver Age of DC is considered to be 1956 and the appearance of the new Flash - Barry Allen. The style of Batman stories changed to a less dark style between the Golden and Silver Ages, and by the early 1960s they included science fiction elements - space aliens, scientific experiments, but by the time of release Detective Comics#327, published in May 1964, Batman returned to his detective roots.

Following the introduction of the Multiverse in the early 1960s, it is revealed that all of the Golden Age characters lived on Earth-2 and the Silver Age on Earth-1, and the origin story previously described was that of what is now considered an alternate version of Batman. . The character himself was referred to as Earth-2 Batman, and later in the issue Superman Family#211, it was revealed that he married Earth-2 Catwoman (Selina Kyle) and became the father of Helena Wayne, later known as Huntress. Huntress subsequently joins Dick Grayson (Earth-2's Robin) in defending Gotham when Wayne leaves Batman's career to become police commissioner and is then killed during his final mission as Batman. This Batman story is considered an alternate story and not part of the main canon, however Batman comics were published without interruption, unlike similar characters DC: Alan Scott and Hal Jordan and Flash Jay Garrick and . Over the following decades, details of the origin of the main Earth-1 Batman were changed or expanded, such as meeting the future Superman in his youth and being raised by his uncle Philip Wayne, who appeared in the issue Batman No. 208 in February 1969. In 1980, then-series editor Paul Levitz became the author of the series The untold story of Batman, in which carefully and in chronological order described the biography of Bruce Wayne.

Throughout the period, Batman works alongside other heroes, most notably Superman, with whom he first teamed up in 1954 as part of the series World's Finest Comics and appeared until its end in 1986. Batman and Superman are generally portrayed as close friends who are aware of each other's true identities. Together they become the founders of the Justice League of America in issue Brave and the Bold No. 28. In the 1970s Brave and the Bold changed the name to Batman, and the hero himself appeared monthly in a team with several characters.

In 1969, Dick Grayson begins to attend college, which became the impetus for revising some aspects of the Batman stories. Bruce Wayne himself moves from his mansion to a penthouse at the top of the Wayne Enterprises skyscraper in downtown Gotham in order to be closer to crime scenes and respond more quickly. Between the mid-1970s and early 1980s, Batman almost always worked alone, sometimes teaming up with Robin or Batgirl. The stories returned to their traditional dark content and design, and the crimes depicted were increasingly serious. During this period, several new characters appeared and old ones returned, such as Ra's al Ghul, a terrorist several hundred years old who knows that Bruce Wayne and Batman are the same person. In the early 1980s, Dick Grayson steps down as Robin and becomes a separate superhero under the alias Nightwing.

In the final release Brave and the Bold#200 in July 1983, Batman leaves the Justice League and forms a new team called the Outsiders. He remains the team leader until graduation Batman and the Outsiders#32 in 1986, when the series was cancelled.

Capabilities

Although he does not possess any innate superpowers, Batman is considered by many (even Superman) to be among the most dangerous people in the world. Batman has become one of the most powerful men in the DC Universe, despite not having any superhuman abilities at any point in his life. Starting at the age of 14, Bruce began training and studying with the brightest minds on the planet to learn about biology, forensics, anatomy and other fields that would help him become the world's greatest detective.

Batman is also a master of stealth, disguise and escape, using his Ninjutsu training. He infiltrated missions with high degree security, including Lexcorp. He disappeared in plain sight permanent people and metahumans such as Azrael. His stealth skills are so high that even superhero groups such as the Legion of Super-Heroes were unable to find him. His accuracy is said to be on par with Green Arrow. He is the second greatest escape artist, the first being Mister Miracle. Batman escaped the straitjacket in 52 seconds, then stated that it was too slow for him. He always carries several master keys with him. He usually uses disguises, one of his most famous identities being Mitch Malone.

To acquire all these skills, Bruce needed money. When his parents died, Bruce inherited millions of his parents' dollars, which he later turned into billions through investing. Bruce owns and operates Wayne International as well as Batman Incorporated.

Batman is the "World's Greatest Detective", solving the biggest mysteries with little or no data. He also speaks many languages ​​such as English, Spanish, French, Russian, German, Japanese, Chinese and others. Bruce has extensive knowledge in criminology, psychology, medicine and anatomy. Batman is an excellent strategist, and is always several steps ahead of his opponents. This incredible ability is due to the fact that he studies his opponents, not only physically, but also mentally. He is a mentor for the Justice League International. Has deep knowledge of business, great in finance and marketing. He hacked into alien and future technologies.

Batman, trained in every martial art, known to mankind, and from each of those forms of combat, he knows 127 that are deadly. These 127 are the main forms of battles that make up his normal fighting style. He is known to change his style to become unpredictable for his opponent. His main fighting style is a mixture of Judo, Ninjutsu, Muay Thai, Taekwondo, Jujutsu, Boxing, Karate and Dragon Style Kung Fu.

Thanks to his training, Batman can also handle almost all types of weapons, known to man, even most firearms- even though he despises them, considering them to be the weapons of cowards, and repeatedly avoids using them even when in need of help. Batman's fighting skills surpass most metahumans and normal men, and he even knows every pressure point in human body, as well as Dim Mak ("touch of death") methods. They can cause dangerous pain to his enemies, which can lead to dizziness, numbness, unconsciousness, temporary paralysis, disorientation, and even death.

Thanks to intense training and diet, Batman achieved outstanding results that simple people could be called superhuman. Batman is in peak physical and mental condition. Batman has shown amazing strength and can bench press at least 1,000 pounds and has personally stated that his maximum weight is 2,500 pounds on the leg press. However, as shown in Batman Odyssey #2, Batman was able to overcome his record leg press weight by using the power of his legs to move a stuck carriage. In Gotham After Midnight #2, Batman was able to apprehend two golden sarcophagi with an estimated weight of at least 1 ton, within one minute. Additionally, Batman is an accomplished gymnast and acrobat, although not on Nightwing's level. Batman's training and peak condition means he is very fast in combat. His high speed combined with his strength makes him phenomenally strong. One day, he caught Green Arrow's arrow and occasionally avoided being shot at point-blank range. He can hold his breath for 3 minutes and 15 seconds. He survived the vacuum of space after 27 seconds.

Weapons and equipment:

Thanks to his wealth, money is no obstacle to the development of various devices and devices that he uses in the fight against crime. The most famous of these is the Batarang, a sharp throwing weapon that has a boomerang-like return ability. Other items include smoke or flash grenades, caltrops (wire hedgehogs), a rebreather, and various types of antidote. There is a sonic device on the heel of his boots that can cause a swarm bats to his location.

Batman costume is an experimental military body armor that is too expensive for the military to put into production. Various types of Batman suits have appeared over the years, but the fact is that Bruce's suit is indestructible, bulletproof, and immune to temperature changes (it will not melt when exposed to fire, etc.). The suit is shock-absorbing and acid-resistant. When he fails to defend himself, his mask emits gas and electrocutes attackers who try to remove any part of his equipment. However, despite all this protection, the suit is vulnerable to sharp objects such as knives, and Batman has sometimes reduced the amount of armor in the suit to increase mobility.

One of his iconic pieces of equipment. Batman designed the pockets to be closed, and only he knows how to open them. His belt has a safety device, it can give an electric shock or activate an internal explosive device if someone tries to open it. It's made from leather belt with solid steel clasp. There are also compartments that contain collapsible Batarangs. Other equipment Batman carries includes various types of poison.

Some devices include:

• EMP Emitter
• Energy deflector
• Degausser
• Magnets
• Batarangs (freezing, explosive, electric, boomerang, etc.)
• Sonic grenades
• Sonic weapon
• Sound emitter
• Explosive plastic substance
• Smoke balls
• Tranquilizer darts
• Miniature explosive devices
• Foam gun against fire
• Mask
• Lockpicks
• Antidotes for poisons and fear toxin Scarecrow
• Kryptonite Ring
• Batmobile controller

Suit Insider

Upon returning from his apparent death, Bruce created the Insider Suit, which had abilities similar to those of the Justice League. It requires constant charging, but can be charged by absorbing energy.

This suit has the following abilities:

• Spectral mode: night vision, neutralization of sound/light waves from outside
• Speed ​​Force (Flash): Grants tremendous speed.
• Thermal Mode (Superman: Heat Vision)
• Willpower (Green Lantern): Copies the capabilities of green energy
• Camouflage Mode (Martian Manhunter): Invisibility
• Truth Mode (Wonder Woman): Cord with lie detectors and produce electric shocks
• Ability to fly
• Teleportation: 3 meter radius, can also move other people

In the media

Cartoon series

Batman appears in the animated series:

• "Super Friends" aired from 1973 to 1974.
• "Absolutely new hour Superfriends" published between 1977 and 1978.
• "Challenge of the Superfriends: New Episodes" aired from 1978 to 1979.
• "The World's Greatest Super Friends" published between 1979 and 1980.
• "Super Friends" aired from 1980 to 1983.
• "Super Friends: Legendary" super show"published between 1984 and 1985.
• "Super Power Team: Guardians of the Galaxy" was released between 1985 and 1986.

New Batman Adventures", published between 1977 and 1978. In this animated series, Batman, along with his partners, faces various villains. For example, in the episode "Bite-Sized", an alien named Electro took over the consciousness of Batman and Robin so that they would help him steal government secrets. And in the episode "Bermuda Rectangle", a villain named Professor Bubbles and his henchman, Flux, hijack ships carrying some of the weapons he can use to take over the world.

Batman appears in the animated series" "published between 1992 and 1995. The character was voiced by Kevin Conroy. He is the main character of the animated series, for example in the series "Forteller", Batman investigates a cult called the Brotherhood, which was founded by the "mystic" Nostromus. And after Bruce finds out from many of his colleagues That Nostromus has the ability to predict the future, he decides to investigate. Eventually, Batman learns that Nostromus is a fraudster who has been setting up accidents to gain the trust of Gotham's upper-class citizens.

Batman appears in the animated series" Superman" ran from 1997 to 1999. The character was voiced by Kevin Conroy. He appears in the episodes entitled "World's Finest", "Time of the Knight" and "The Demon Reborn".

Batman appears in the animated series" New Batman Adventures" ran from 1997 to 1999. The character was voiced by Kevin Conroy. For example, in the episode "Never Be Afraid", Pugolo developed a new toxin that, instead of causing fear, eliminates it by making ordinary people carefree and dangerous, including Batman.

Bruce Wayne appears in the animated series " Batman of the Future" ran from 1999 to 2001, the character was voiced by Kevin Conroy. In the animated series, an elderly Bruce Wayne passes on the suit a teenager named Terry McGuinness, whom Voiced by Will Friedle.

Batman appears in the animated series" Project Zeta" airing in 2001. He appears in the episode entitled "Shadows".

Batman appears in the animated series" Static Shock" aired between 2002 and 2004. The character was voiced by Kevin Conroy. He appears in episodes of " Major League", "Iron Men", "A League of Their Own" and "Future Shock". In the episode entitled "Major League", he comes to the aid of a young superhero when the Joker appears in town planning to destroy Static Shock.

Batman appears in the animated series" Justice League", the character was voiced by Kevin Conroy. He is one of the main characters of the cartoon, as well as one of the founders Leagues.

Batman appears in the animated series" " ran between 2004 and 2008. The character was voiced by Rino Romano. The series followed the early years of Batman's adventures in the first two seasons, but was seen with Robin and Batgirl in the later two seasons, and even Superman; he also fought many usual villains.

Batman appears in the animated series" Batman: The Brave and the Bold", the character was voiced by Diedrich Bader. The animated series was aimed at a young audience and was not as dark as previous shows about Batman.

Batman appears in the animated series" Young Justice", the character was voiced by Bruce Greenwood. He is one of the 7 founding members of the Justice League. He is also responsible for sending the team on secret missions. He is also the mentor to many of the team members especially Superboy, who is not in good relations with Superman. His alter ego, Bruce Wayne, also plays a key role in some episodes. Batman is also the mentor to three incarnations of the Robins (Dick Grayson, Jason Todd and Tim Drake) as well as Barbra Gordon/Batgirl throughout the series.

Batman appears in the animated series" Teen Titans ", the character was voiced by Kevin Michael. In the episode "Red X Unmasked", when the team begins to remove the masks from the enemy they have captured, Batman's face appears and says "I am vengeance, I am the night, I am", but he is not allowed to finish and Robin takes it off mask.

Batman appears in the animated series" Teen Titans Go!". Batman makes cameo appearances in various episodes of the animated series (for example, "Books", "Slumber Party" and others).

Batman appears in the animated series" Watch out for Batman", the character was voiced by Anthony Ruivivar. The action of the animated series unfolds during early years Bruce Wayne acting as. During the season, he hones his skills with the help of his butler, Alfred five kopecks. Bruce introduced Alfred Pennyworth, who is a former MI6 agent.

Batman appears in the animated series" Justice League Action", the character was voiced by Kevin Conroy. Batman appears as one of the main characters in the animated series.

Animated films

Batman appears in " Batman: Mask of the Phantasm"released in 1993, the role of the character was voiced by Kevin Conroy. A new vigilante appears in Gotham and, unlike Batman, he does not leave his victims alive. The vigilante begins to hunt for the former leaders of Gotham's gangster groups. Mysterious nature vigilante, and also due to his similarity in appearance to Batman, causes the city of Gotham to doubt Batman and put him on the wanted list. This film also shows Bruce's life before he put on the mask, especially his romantic relationship with Andrea Beaumont.

Batman appears in " Batman and Mister Freeze"released in 1998, the character was voiced by Kevin Conroy. Batman encounters Mr. Freeze again after he returns from the Arctic, where he spent a lot of time. He is forced to return due to Nora's deteriorating condition. Freeze returned to Gotham, to find treatment for his wife.

Batman appears in " Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker" released in 2000, the character was voiced by Kevin Conroy. In Neo-Gotham City, the Joker, who has been absent for the past 35 years, returns and begins to manage a criminal team. On his orders, they steal high-tech communications equipment. Despite the intervention of Terry McGinnis (successor Bruce Wayne, who plays Batman), the Joker escapes. Bruce insists that the Joker must be an impostor, claiming that he witnessed the Joker's death after their final battle.

Batman appears in " Batman and the Mystery of the Batwoman"released in 2003, the character was voiced by Kevin Conroy. Batman and Robin must face a new caped vigilante, whose identity is unknown even to Batman. Now, Batman and Robin are trying to find out what kind of person is hidden under the mask, as well as deal with old enemies Penguin and Rupert Thorne.

Batman appears in " Batman vs Dracula"released in 2005, the role of the character was voiced by Rino Romano. After Dracula himself comes to life, people begin to disappear in the city and Batman tries to find out what is really happening. On one of the nights of his patrol, the Dark Knight encounters Dracula.

Batman appears in " Justice League: The New Barrier"released in 2008, the role of the character was voiced by Kevin Conroy. According to the plot, a new generation of superheroes who must join forcesto fight with threat posed by Earth.

Batman appears in " Batman: Gotham Knight", released in 2008, the role of the character was voiced by Jeremy Sisto. Children gather on the set, each of them tells one of the stories they heard about Batman.

Batman appears in " Superman/Batman: Public Enemies" released in 2009, the character was voiced by Kevin Conroy. The story centers on Superman and Batman stopping an asteroid from destroying the Earth and stopping , who has now become President and intends to destroy the Man of Steel, whom Lex blamed for the death of Major Force, exposing Superman to his eyes a great threat to the public.

Batman appears in " Batman: Under the Red Hood" released in 2010, the character was voiced by Bruce Greenwood. The story follows the death of Jason Todd (Robin), and several years later a new adversary appears in the city, who uses the Joker's old alias, wreaks havoc on organized crime in Gotham City, Batman realizes that the new opponent is somehow familiar to him.

Batman appears in " Justice League: Crisis on Two Earths" released in 2010, the character was voiced by William Baldwin. Lex Luthor comes from another universe to ask for the Justice League's help in confronting an evil version of the League.

Batman appears in " Superman/Batman: Apocalypse" released in 2010, the character was voiced by Kevin Conroy. Batman discovers a mysterious teenage girl with superhuman powers and a connection to Superman. The girl attracts the attention of Darkseid, the evil overlord of the Apocalypse.

Batman appears in " Batman: Year One"released in 2011, the role of the character was voiced by Ben McKenzie. The story will tell about the early years of Batman, how and why he became the Masked Avenger. Also, the plot tells about Gordon, who only recently came to Gotham City.

Batman appears in " The Dark Knight Rises. Part 1" released in 2012, the character was voiced by Peter Weller. Blaming himself for the death of Jason Todd, Bruce Wayne resigns And allows Gotham City plunge into the breeding ground of evil. But Bruce eventually has to return from the return of Two-Face. After this, a new Robin joins Bruce, young girl named Carrie Kelly, who helps him in the battle against mutants who strive to control all of Gotham.

Batman appears in " Justice League: Doom"released in 2012, the character was voiced by Kevin Conroy. Batman developed a plan to neutralize each member of the Justice League in case any or all of them fall under someone else's control. Mirror Master manages to take possession of this data and transfer it to Vandal Savage , which gathers the Legion of Doom to destroy the heroes.

Batman appears in " The Dark Knight Rises. Part 2"released in 2013, the role of the character was voiced by Peter Weller. After Batman returns, he decides to use this time to restore order in Gotham. But when the Joker finds out about the return of the Dark Knight, he decides to remind himself.

Batman appears in " Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox" released in 2013, the character was voiced by Kevin Conroy. , together with the rest Leagues , appears at the beginning of the film, he helps defuse one of the bombs that Professor Zoom set up. But when The Flash changes history, Bruce Wayne is killed and Thomas Wayne acts as . And when the Flash takes it all back, he pays a visit and conveys him the letter that I gave him father Bruce.

Batman appears in " Justice League: War" released in 2014, the role of the character was voiced by Jason O'Mara. The film is based on the stories of the New 52. Batman investigates the appearance of an unknown monster, which many mistake for him. At this time, he meets Green Lantern and together they stumble upon an unknown device (MotherBox Suddenly, Parodemons attack, and then Darkseid himself appears. Now, separately active heroes We have to unite to resist the powerful forces of evil and save the world.

Batman appears in " Batman's son" released in 2014, the role of the character was voiced by Jason O'Mara. Batman learns that he has a son named Damian, whom Talia leaves with Bruce to keep him safe. Although, Damian believes that he can take care of himself and doesn't need Batman.

Batman appears in " Batman: Assault on Arkham"released in 2014, the role of the character was voiced by Kevin Conroy. Batman is trying his best to find the bomb that the Joker planted before he got into Arkham. On the night of his patrol, he notices something strange is happening in Arkham and heads there. There , he encounters the Suicide Squad, who are trying to kill Waller.

Batman appears in " Justice League: Trapped in Time", released in 2014, the character was voiced by Diedrich Bader.

Batman appears in " Batman vs Robin

Batman appears in " Justice League: Throne of Atlantis" released in 2015, the character was voiced by Jason O'Mara.

Batman appears in " Batman Unlimited: Animal Instincts" released in 2015, the character was voiced by Roger Craig Smith.

Batman appears in " Justice League: Gods and Monsters" released in 2015, the character was voiced by Michael Hall.

Batman appears in " Batman Unlimited: Chaos" released in 2016, the character was voiced by Roger Craig Smith.

Batman appears in " Batman: Bad Blood

Batman appears in " Justice League vs Teen Titans" released in 2016, the character was voiced by Jason O'Mara.

Batman appears in " Batman: The Killing Joke" released in 2016, the character was voiced by Kevin Conroy.

Series

Batman appears in the TV series Batman, which ran from 1966 to 1968, played by Adam West.

Batman appears in the 1979 TV series Legends of Superheroes, reprized by Adam West.

In the 2002 TV series Birds of Prey, Batman appeared in the first episode.

In the 2014 TV series The Flash, Wayne Tech, owned by billionaire Bruce Wayne, is mentioned in a news article that details its merger with rival company Queen Incorporated, owned by Oliver Queen, better known as the superhero Green Arrow, in 2024.

Young Bruce Wayne appears in the television series Gotham, played by actor David Mazouz.

In Legends of Tomorrow, Rip Hunter tells his team that he saw "the death of the Man of Steel and the fall of the Dark Knight" in the future.

Batman appears in the TV series Titans, played by stuntman Alain Moussi.

Batman

Biography

Childhood

At the age of eight, in front of Bruce Wayne's eyes, his parents were killed by the robber Joe Chil: his father, the doctor Thomas Wayne, and his mother, Martha Wayne. Earlier, at the same age, little Wayne one day, while walking around the family estate, fell into a cave filled with bats and was very scared, but his father arrived in time and pulled him out. These events left a big imprint on Bruce's life and worldview. From then on, he lived at Wayne Manor under the care of his uncle Philip Wayne and his butler Alfred Pennyworth. Bruce spent his youth traveling around the world improving his intellect, spirit and body. He studied various sciences and martial arts.

Youth and training

At the age of 16, the future Batman tried to study at various educational institutions, including the University of Cambridge. However, he did not stay there for long, preferring self-study and training with certain teachers. Bruce Wayne mastered 127 fighting techniques, including aikido, yau-yang and ninjutsu. Among his teachers were the master of secrecy Henri Ducard, an equal among the “Phantom Tribes of the Ten-Eyed Brotherhood”, an African bushman who taught Wayne to hunt, Nepalese monks taught him the art of healing and speedy healing of injuries.

The Making of Batman

At the age of 20, Wayne tried to become an FBI employee, but soon decided that he needed to fight criminals using their own methods. After this decision, Wayne began to fight crime in Gotham City on his own and without yet using the bat suit. However, his initial attempts to fight were not so successful until, after another fight with bandits, after which he almost died, he, sitting in his office, saw a bat crashing against the window glass and remembered that incident and the fear that he experienced in as a child, falling into a cave with bats. From this time on, Bruce Wayne transformed into Batman and began using the bat suit as a means of intimidation and threat against criminals.

Batman began to operate mainly at night. Persistent rumors began to circulate around the city about a superhero who had allegedly appeared in Gotham City, fighting crime alone. The rumors were debunked by a real demonstration of Batman's reality when the latter appeared in daytime and liberated a school seized by terrorists. His action was shown on all the news of various television channels.

Subsequent heroic activity

Having made himself known, Batman began collaborating with Gotham City police officials. The latter created for this purpose a large spotlight with the image of a bat, which was activated during danger and a circle of light with an image of a bat in the middle was turned into the sky. The device was called the "Bat-signal". To fight crime, Bruce Wayne created a hidden hideout in the cave he fell into as a child, which he could access directly from his family estate.

Redefining Batman's Identity

After believing that the supervillain Alexander Luthor killed his friend and partner Dick Grayson, Batman wanted to kill Luthor, thereby violating his principles of justice. However, it soon became clear that Dick was alive and Batman left Gotham City for a while to rethink his future activities. He traveled to the Middle East, accompanied by Robin and Nightwing, where, under the auspices of the Cult of the Ten-Eyed Men, he underwent repeated training and honed his endurance.

Returning to Gotham City, Batman faced another problem - he met Ibn al Xu'fash, supposed to be Batman's son from the criminal Talia al Ghul.

Universes Collide

Concerned about possible invasions from other worlds, Batman created an independent global security system to monitor breaches in space, detect and neutralize characters from other universes.

Batman's alter egos and other personalities

Batman carefully tried to maintain his real identity, but there are several characters who knew who was hiding under the mask of the man-bat: Superman, Wonder Woman, The Flash, Green Lanterns, Kyle Rayner and Alan Scott, Plastic Man, Aquaman Orin, Green Arrow, Nightwing, Jason Todd, Robin, Oracle, Martian Manhunter, Alfred, and Doctor Leslie Tomkins.

File:Batman-04.jpg

Bruce Wayne

Behind the Man-Bat mask is Bruce Wayne, billionaire industrialist, playboy and philanthropist. The voices are different - Batman uses a deeper voice.

Matches Malone

Among others, Batman also used the identity of the bandit "Matches Malone" to infiltrate the criminal environment. Matches Malone was a former gangster who was accused of murdering his brother. However, he was not charged due to the fact that he burned himself. Since then, Malone's identity has been used by Batman, but there have been problems with this too - Malone was often suspected of working for Batman and serving as his spy. Later, the real Malone showed up, faking his suicide and proving his non-involvement in the murder of his brother. But he was soon killed by the bandit Ventriloquist as a spy for Batman.

Subsequently, Batman avenged his murder and was even able to retain this identity and use it in his future activities. In particular, Batman, using Malone's identity, was even arrested and kept in the Black Gate prison.

Batman's enemies and adversaries

Batman's comic book enemies include the Joker, Mr. Freeze, Rag Doll, The Riddler, and Two-Face. Among Batman's enemies who knew about his real identity are: Ra's al Ghul, Hugo Strange, the Riddler, Catwoman, Scarecrow, Damnation and Hush.

Batmobile from the classic film series

Family and relationships with other superheroes

After the death of Batman's parents, Thomas Wayne, Martha Wayne, the closest people to him were his uncle Philip Wayne and, in particular, his butler Alfred. Alfred gave him support and understanding everywhere. Some of the closest superheroes to Batman are Superman and Wonder Woman.

Batman's sidekicks include Robin and Batgirl. Batman is also a member of such superhero societies as: the Justice League, the Outsiders, the Justice Society and the Teen Titans. Such membership in one way or another required relationships between superheroes in order to achieve the goals of the societies. The relationship was sometimes conflictual and suspicious on both sides; in particular, Batman himself kept files on other superheroes. And the Justice League, at one time, erased Batman's memory.

Women in Batman's Life

There were many women in Batman's life for whom he had certain feelings: Catwoman, Wonder Woman, Talia al Ghul, Andrea Biamont, Vicki Vale, Sasha Bordeaux and Zatanna.

Crime Fighting Tools

In his activities, Batman uses various kinds of devices, equipment, weapons and other means to achieve the goals of justice and made with the help of Wayne Industries. In particular, when in close contact with criminals, Batman uses so-called Batarangs (boomerangs, the shape of which symbolizes the image of a bat), which can be used to defeat the enemy, limit his mobility, etc. Low-power explosive devices, capsules with tear gas and smoke are also used. An indispensable attribute of Batman is a bat suit, designed to instill fear in criminals. Necessary equipment Batman carries on his belt, among others, a harpoon pistol, a cutter, a paralyzing toxin, etc.

To move in space, Batman can use vehicles such as the Batmobile, Batplane, Batboat and Batcycle. To fight crime, they are equipped with many necessary devices, meeting the latest technology. Appearance These vehicles are futuristic and bear a resemblance to the image of a bat (however, for example, in the film Batman Begins the Batmobile does not have such a resemblance).

Batman's Skills and Abilities

physical characteristics

Unlike many superheroes, he does not possess any superhuman powers or abilities. Batman has great physical potential, which accumulated throughout his training and development. Batman began his first physical training at the age of 11, and at 12 he began working with heavy equipment. At 15, Batman began developing his own diets and individual training routines, achieving very significant results by the age of 20.

Thus, also without taking alcohol, with the help of intensive work on himself, Batman achieved a state of the body close to perfection. Also physical characteristics of Batman as a superhero are his high gymnastic and acrobatic abilities. His superhuman strength is known, when he lifted weights weighing about half a ton, punched through brick walls, broke steel chains and handcuffs, and felled trees with blows. His reflexive capabilities are no less impressive; in particular, there are known cases of him dodging shots.

Batman's speed in some cases reaches 56 kilometers per hour, and his endurance allows him not to breathe for up to 5 minutes under water. Superhuman agility and durability allow him to ignore pain and successfully overtake his opponent in various situations.

Martial arts proficiency

Since his youth, Batman has intensively studied various types of martial arts, achieving the point that he was able to practice 127 martial techniques (all of which he studied outside the United States). In the USA, he studied hand-to-hand combat techniques for about 3 years. By the age of 18, Batman was proficient in Karate, Judo, Jujutsu and Aikido at the 2nd and 3rd degree level. At 18, Batman left the United States and continued his training abroad, receiving a black belt in Savate and Kung Fu. In addition, Batman is at a high level familiar with the tactics of commando squads, fighting blindly. Studied Ninjitsu, Muay Thai, Kobudo, Yaw-Yan, Tae Kwon Do and Dragon style. Took lessons from Wild Cat, a world boxing champion.

Knowledge of various types of combat techniques is complemented by mastery of weapons, in particular swords and knives. Batman has mastery of stealth, as well as a very accurate shot and uses a Batarang. There is a known case of the latter fighting off a flying bullet.

Mental capacity

No less supernatural powers are the capabilities of his mind. So it reaches a value of 192, and analytical abilities are no less high. While learning to perfect his body, he also studied various sciences: biology, mathematics, physics, mythology, geography and history. At 21, he had already earned degrees in criminology, computer science, chemistry, and several other scientific fields. By the age of 23, he had mastered espionage skills: sabotage, security systems, sleight of hand, etc. By the age of 25, he received higher scientific degrees in biology, physics and chemistry. By the age of 26, he had studied some forensic, medical and technical sciences.

Batman's linguistic knowledge includes the following languages: Spanish, French, Latin, German, Japanese, English, Russian, Cantonese and several other dialects. Superman taught him to speak Kryptonian. His tactical and strategic abilities are also known, as well as his ability to be a leader (he led the Justice League, studied the Art of War). Batman can get out of almost any situation - in 52 seconds he got out of a straitjacket, and with the help ballpoint pen was able to get out of the straitjacket, chained.

He also has the skill of a tracker (he learned it from the African Bushmen), control vehicles, camouflage. Has a well-developed memory.

Comics

The Batman comic book universe is divided into three parts: this is the most classic golden age, followed by the silver age, and, as you might guess, the bronze age. In each of them, Batman changed his images, something new appeared, or someone new appeared in the life of the Dark Knight, the level of seriousness and complexity of masterpiece detectives rose from comedy action to bloody detective. There are so many comic lines about Batman, it’s impossible to list them all. We should also not forget about Elswords - other worlds that tell about what would have happened if the hero’s fate had turned out differently.

Animation

• Batman/Superman Hour (1968-1969)
• Batman with Robin the Boy Wonder (1969)
• The New Adventures of Batman (1977)
• Super Friends (1973-1984)
• Batman (animated series)(Batman: The Animated Series) was filmed from 1992 to 1995, there were feature films.

One of the first versions of the Batman cartoons, which are based both on comics and on the famous films “Batman”, “Batman Returns”, “Batman Forever”, “Batman and Robin”. The same series includes the animated version of the film Batman Begins and a version of The Dark Knight is being prepared.

• Batman: Mask of the Phantasm (1993)
• Batman & Mr. Freeze: SubZero (1998)
• The Batman/Superman Movie (1998)
• The New Batman Adventures (1997-1999)
• Batman Beyond (1999-2001)
• Batman vs Dracula (2005)
• Justice League/Justice League Unlimited (2001-2006)
• The Batman (2004-2008)
• Batman: The Brave and the Bold (2008)
• Batman: Gotham Knight(Batman: Gotham Knight) - a cartoon filmed in the anime genre. Six episodes total time is 1 hour 15 minutes. An alternate plot between Batman Begins and The Dark Knight is revealed here.
• Justice League: The New Frontier (2008)

Film adaptations

Computer games

• Batman 3D (1985)
• Batman: The Caped Crusader (1988)
• Batman (1989)
• Batman (1990)
• Batman: Return of the Joker (Revenge of the Joker) (1991)-(1992)
• Batman Returns (1993)
• Batman: The Animated Series (1993)
• The Adventures of Batman & Robin (1994)
• Justice League Task Force (1995)
• Batman Forever (1996)
• Batman & Robin (1997)
• Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker (2000)
• Batman: Chaos in Gotham (2001)
• Batman: Gotham City Racer (2001)
• Batman Vengeance (2001)
• Batman: Dark Tomorrow (2003)
• Batman: Rise of Sin Tzu (2004)
• Batman Begins (2005)
• Justice League Heroes (2006)
• LEGO Batman (2008)
• Batman:Arkham Asylum (2009)

Literature

Foreign novelization

• 1989 - Batman.
• 1989 - Neutral Ground.
• 1990 - Happy Birthday. By Jack McDevitt, Mark L. Van Name
• 1990 - The Batman Murders.
• 1990 - Jangletown. Authors: Paul Whitcover, Elizabeth Hand
• 1990 - Museum Piece.
• 1991 - Batman: on the trail of the Specter (To Stalk a Specter).
• 1992 - Batman Returns.
• 1992 - Batman: The Last Angel.
• 1992 - Batman and Dracula: Red Rain.
• 1995 - Batman Forever.

Russian novelization

There are Russian-language novelizations of both the first and second films by Bill Flash. Marina Naumova and Gleb Kireev are hiding under a pseudonym.

• 1993 - Batman.
• 1993 - Batman Returns.

Groups of RIA Novosti sites >>

Charlie Jane Anders, "io9", USA

Think you know Batman? No, the secrets of the caped fighter against evil are much deeper than you could imagine. In 60 s extra years Batman's existence in different media mass media appeared in very strange guises, and incredible details were associated with him. Here are 10 Bat-facts you didn't know.

1. Batman only met Hitler once

You cut off the side of the box and you were left with a raw piece of cardboard in the shape of a Batman mask. God knows what this mask smelled like after a few hours. There was another cut-out mask, from a carton with milk, but not chocolate. However, her shape was approximately the same. Want to see more weird Bat-merch? Please: there is a Bat-doll - a strange masturbating figure of Batman. There is also a Russian Batman.

8 Gotham Almost Came to California

Moreover, in real life, not in comics. Joseph F. Lewis, a lawyer from Sunnyvale, California, owned a nightclub in this town in Silicon Valley. In 1966, with Bat-mania at its height, he changed its name from Whiskey-A-Go-Go to Wayne Mansion. The renamed nightclub featured a Batman-themed set and dancers donned Catwoman and Batgirl costumes. In an effort to revitalize the city's downtown, Lewis began pushing the city council to rename the city from Sunnyvale to Gotham City. And he almost succeeded.

9. Barbara Gordon only became Batgirl because the TV show writers demanded it.

The producer of the late 1960s television series, William Dozier, demanded that a new female Batman ally be included in the comic, since Batwoman Betty Kane had long since been removed from the story. And the television series needed a new heroine, and the filmmakers wanted the comics to keep up with them. Therefore, Commissioner Gordon's daughter Barbara appeared as Batgirl for the first time in 1967. Wayne's butler Alfred was also dead in the comics, but the comic book creators brought him back to life at Dozier's request. The butler returned in one of the most strange stories, in which a mysterious villain with supernatural properties turned out to be Alfred in disguise.

10. Batman fought Doctor Doom before the Fantastic Four

This happened in Detective Comics #158 (April 1950). As Batman and Robin carry their 1001st trophy into the Batcave, Doctor Doom sneaks behind them to find out where their secret lair is. He then arms himself with all the Bat-trophies to kill the couple, but is killed himself. (I could have sworn that in my search I once came across a Bat-villain named Dr. Evil from the early 1950s, but I can't find him again.) A Bat-villain named Dr. No-Face also appeared periodically.

Who is Batman? It’s a strange question, because together with Superman he is one of the most famous fictional heroes in the world, on whose example more than one generation of readers has been raised. In addition, many films are dedicated to Batman. How did the image of this character evolve throughout his “film career”?

Who is Batman: character description

This superhero first appeared on the pages of comic books in 1939.

Soon he received a separate series and a team of assistants in the person of Robin, Beegirl, Commissioner Gordon and others. Throughout its long " literary career“This character managed to gain popularity around the world. As soon as they called a hero by the name of Batman: The Dark Knight, the Guardian of Gotham, the Best Detective in the World, etc.

Appearing shortly after the Great Depression, he embodies the hopes of ordinary citizens for an all-powerful and incorruptible defender of the weak from ruthless criminals and corrupt authorities. A special feature of Batman that distinguished him from other superheroes was that he did not possess any superhuman powers and fought evil using his mind, physical dexterity and technical devices. In other words, every reader realized that theoretically he, too, could become Batman.

The hero’s alter ego was no less attractive to Americans in the late 1930s. While for most of the characters it was a mystery who Batman was (photo below), readers knew that under the guise of a valiant crime fighter was a billionaire and playboy - Bruce Wayne. Americans impoverished after the Great Depression desperately wanted to believe in the existence of a noble rich man, ready to help poor people, like Wayne was.

As time passed, more and more stories about Batman appeared. In addition, DC periodically rebooted the franchise. Despite this, the Dark Knight continued to be loved by more and more generations of readers.

The character's appearance on television in 1943 and 1949.

The popularity of the hero was so great that 4 years after his debut on the pages of comic books, an entire television series of 15 episodes was dedicated to Batman. The role of the Dark Knight was first played by Lewis Wilson.

In fact, it was a spy series about the confrontation between the USA and Japan, in which, in order to attract viewers, the popular comic book hero, Batman, was made the main character. Despite the fact that he was very far from canon, thanks to the television series, the character got a Batcave. And the devoted keeper of the secret of who Batman really is, butler Alfred Pennyworth, has turned from a well-fed Bavarian into a prim Briton.

Remembering the success of the first television series, after the end of the war it was decided to film its sequel - “Batman and Robin”. This time the role of Batman was given to Robert Laurie. Counting on the fact that viewers would watch this television series out of habit, its producers did not particularly bother with the script and budget. The result was a very mediocre show.

as Batman

After the failure of the 1949 series, no films or TV series were made about this hero for almost 17 years. However, after updating the comic, as well as the invention of the Dark Knight logo in the mid-60s, it was decided to make a new television series.

Adam West, who has a strong chin and a heroic voice, was invited to play the main role. The 1966 project was incredibly successful. He managed to stay on air for season 3, in addition, a full-length film based on him with the same cast was shot - “Batman”. The film received audience recognition, and for the next 20 years it was the best in its series.

In contrast to the rather dark atmosphere of the comics, the television series and film with Adam West were more reminiscent of a light comedy, where good always triumphs over evil and does so effectively and cheerfully. Despite such an obvious contradiction to the canon, West is still considered one of the best incarnations of Batman on screen.

By the way, after the closure of the project, this artist voiced most of the cartoons dedicated to the Defender of Gotham for many years.

Movies with Michael Keaton

For more than 20 years, directors did not risk releasing new project about the Dark Knight. Since every viewer answers the question: “Who is Batman?” - he invariably answered - “Adam West”, no one believed that it was possible to somehow outshine the 1966 movie.

However, Tim Burton was not afraid of difficulties and in 1989 he released the film Batman, in which Michael Keaton played the Gotham Knight.

This project was truly a turning point in the film biography of Batman, because for the first time he was shown on screen not in a comic way, as was previously the case, but as tragic character, tormented by deep emotions.

Keaton's Dark Knight has lost the gloss and pathos of West, he has become more humane and closer to the audience. It is not surprising that Burton's film grossed more than $400 million and held the title of the best of its kind for almost 20 years.

Thanks to the success of the first film, 3 years later the second was filmed with the same Michael Keaton - “Batman: Returns”. Despite star cast(Danny DeVito and it collected less at the box office than the first film. Many believed that this was due to the overly gloomy atmosphere in the film, but true comic book fans, on the contrary, were delighted with this film adaptation.

"Batman Forever"

Despite the decline in audience interest in the Dark Knight, in 1995 it was decided to dedicate another movie to him. This time, Burton was replaced in the director's chair by Joel Schumacher, and instead of Keaton, Val Kilmer was invited to play the leading role.

The new director made the project bright and colorful - to match the Hollywood standards of the 90s. At the same time, Burton's atmosphere was lost, and the picture, despite excellent box office receipts, was the weakest in this trilogy.

The audience's attention to the project was attracted by the presence huge amount stars: Jim Carrey, Tommy Lee Jones, Chris O'Donnell and Drew Barrymore. It is worth noting that Val Kilmer looked faded compared to them and was recognized at that time as one of worst performers this role.

"Batman and Robin"

Although the films about the Knight of Gotham became worse with each new one, viewers were still interested in his fate. Therefore, in 1997, Schumacher shot another film in the series. Since Val Kilmer's performance turned out to be weak, it was decided to take another performer. It was only George Clooney who was gaining popularity.

Despite his charm, new artist played even worse than the previous one, creating on the screen instead of the noble Batman a puppet Ken with a rubber smile. In addition, the project itself began to resemble a hackneyed television series rather than a movie.

Neither the charming Uma Thurman, nor Arnold Schwarzenegger, nor the young picture received negative reviews, because of which over the next 8 years no one believed that the franchise was still capable of achieving success.

Christopher Nolan trilogy

However, in 2005, aspiring Hollywood director Christopher Nolan, who became famous thanks to the film Memento, decides to try to revive the cycle. Based on his own script, based on the comics “Year One” and “The Long Halloween,” he is directing the film “Batman Begins.” Christian Bale was invited to play the main role.

The film turned out to be incredibly successful, reaching the level of "Batman" in 1989. In addition, it served as the beginning new wave Batman mania.

The reason for this success was that for the first time in the history of film adaptations of comic books about the Dark Knight, a film was able to convey the dark spirit of the graphic novels of the cycle. In addition, the film carefully developed the characters and motivations of characters such as Commissioner Gordon (Gary Oldman), Rachel Dawes Carmine Falcone (Tom Wilkinson), Ra's al Ghul (Liam Neeson) and others. In addition, the years Bruce Wayne spent away from his native Gotham were told on screen for the first time.

After the great success of the film, Batman Knight reappeared on the screen 3 years later in Nolan’s film The Dark Knight. This picture became the most successful in the entire film history of The Dark Knight and grossed over a billion. In it, Christian Bale again played the role of the Gotham Knight, opposing the cunning Joker. It is worth noting that in this film, for the first time, the neck became mobile.

The last film in the trilogy was the 2012 film “The Dark Knight Rises.” In it, for the last time, viewers meet their favorite performer, Christian Bale.

"Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice"

The fantastic box office success of Nolan's trilogy proved that in the new millennium, audiences still remain partial to the Gotham Knight. Therefore, before the filming of The Dark Knight Rises had finished, negotiations began on the film adaptation of the Batman v Superman project, which was abandoned in 2001. The project's script was based on the comic book of the same name, but its plot was simplified.

Initially, Bale was offered to play the role of the Dark Knight again, but he refused and the producers' choice fell on Ben Affleck, who had previously played the superhero Daredevil.

Despite the luxurious advertising campaign film "Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice", viewers were very skeptical about it. However, this did not stop the film from collecting more than 850 million at the box office. Such a tremendous financial success, however, did not soften the attitude of critics towards the film - it was recognized as very mediocre. In particular, due to the metamorphoses that occurred with Batman. The brave and independent hero that viewers and readers have known Bruce Wayne for many years turns into an envious paranoid in the new film adaptation. In addition, Ben Affleck, who has grown considerably fat, despite his muscles, looks like a fat hog compared to the fit Henry Cavill.

The irony is that, despite the indignation of some viewers who believe that Affleck, for all his merits, is not suitable for this role, the actor was not only not removed from the project, but was also made the director of the upcoming solo film about the Dark Knight.

"Justice League: Part 1"

Competing with Marvel, DC also actively began creating their own cinematic universe.

Therefore, they are simultaneously filming several projects at once, in which the Dark Knight appears. Thus, the movie “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” became a prequel to the project “Justice League: Part 1”, which is scheduled to be released in the fall of 2017.

It is known that Batman, played by Ben Affleck, will play a leading role in it. It is also possible that the writers in this film will better develop the character's character than was done in the previous project.

Among other DC projects in recent years in which the Dark Knight appeared is the film “Suicide Squad.” It is also possible that the superhero will appear in episodes of Wonder Woman, The Flash and Aquaman.

Ben Affleck's film "Batman" 2018

Next year, filming will begin on a new film about Gotham Knight. Ben Affleck will not only play Batman again, but will also serve as director and co-screenwriter of the film.

It’s hard to imagine how the new Batman will appear before the audience, but fans believe in the best.

TV series "Gotham"

In addition to numerous movies, there is also a television series called "Gotham", which focuses on who Batman is and how he became the Dark Knight.

Since, according to the plot, Bruce is still a teenager, the main character is Detective Gordon, Batman's future ally. At the same time, the hero himself rarely participates in events due to his young age. The role of the Dark Knight in the television series "Gotham" is played by David Mazouz.

Over his more than seventy-year film career, Batman has evolved from a comic character to a defender of the Earth from an alien threat. What surprises await fans of this superhero in the future will become known with the release of “Justice League” and the new “Batman”.

Initially, Bat-man (Bat-Man) is a fictional superhero, a comic book character published by DC Comics, who first appeared in Detective Comics (Detective Comics) in May 1939. Along with Superman and Spider-Man, Batman is one of the most popular and famous comic book heroes and fictional characters. It was created by artist Bob Kane in collaboration with writer Bill Finger, but Kane is officially the sole author of the character.

IN original version Batman biographies - secret alter ego billionaire Bruce Wayne, successful industrialist, philanthropist and favorite of women. As a child, after witnessing the murder of his parents, Bruce vowed to dedicate his life to eradicating crime and fighting for justice. Having prepared himself physically and mentally, he puts on a stylized bat costume and takes to the streets of the city to confront criminals. The Batman stories take place in the fictional American city of Gotham, based on Chicago with elements of New York. With the assistance of several supporting characters, including his sidekick Robin, his butler Alfred, Police Commissioner James Gordon, and the occasional superheroine Batgirl, Batman faces off against a group of villains including the Joker, Two-Face, Poison Ivy, the Penguin, Scarecrow, and Catwoman. Unlike most superheroes, Batman does not have superpowers, but uses his intelligence, martial arts skills, espionage, knowledge of science and technology, as well as an unbending will, the ability to instill fear and intimidate his enemies.

From the moment of his appearance, Batman almost immediately gained popularity, receiving his own comic book series of the same name less than a year later. Over time, several options have emerged different interpretations character. Since the release of the Batman television series in 1966, the character of Batman, portrayed by actor Adam West, has been used in comic books for many years. In the 1980s, it was decided to bring back a more sinister look for the Dark Knight, which was reflected in the 1986 comic book miniseries Batman: The Dark Knight Returns by Frank Miller. Miller's rewrite of the character became the basis for Tim Burton's 1989 film Batman and the 2005 reboot Batman Begins, directed by Christopher Nolan, which revived the character's popularity. As a cultural icon, Batman has been adapted into films, television and books, and has also appeared in various types of merchandise sold around the world, such as video games, toys and clothing. In May 2011, Batman was ranked #2 on IGN's list of the Top 100 Comic Book Heroes of All Time, behind Superman.