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Batman Forever

Batman Forever is a 1995 American superhero film based on the DC Comics character Batman.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Batman Forever is a 1995 American superhero film based on the DC Comics character Batman. It is the third installment in the original Batman film series and a standalone sequel to Batman Returns. Directed by Joel Schumacher, the film stars Val Kilmer as Batman, alongside Tommy Lee Jones, Jim Carrey, Nicole Kidman, and Chris O'Donnell.

Plot

The story centers on Batman trying to stop Two-Face and the Riddler from threatening Gotham City and uncovering his secret identity. It also develops Bruce Wayne's relationship with Dr. Chase Meridian and introduces Dick Grayson, who becomes Robin.

Production

Batman Forever marked a major tonal and stylistic shift from Batman Returns. Joel Schumacher directed the film, with Tim Burton serving as producer, and Val Kilmer took over the role of Batman.

Cast

The film stars Val Kilmer, Tommy Lee Jones, Jim Carrey, Nicole Kidman, and Chris O'Donnell. The cast also includes Michael Gough and Pat Hingle in recurring Batman-series roles.

Release and reception

Batman Forever premiered in 1995 and was distributed as a major studio superhero film. It became one of the better-known entries in the 1990s Batman film cycle and was followed by Batman & Robin in 1997.

Key facts

  • It is the third installment in the Batman film series and follows Batman Returns.
  • Val Kilmer replaced Michael Keaton as Bruce Wayne / Batman.
  • The main villains are Two-Face and the Riddler.
  • Chris O'Donnell's Robin is introduced in the film series.
  • The film was directed by Joel Schumacher.
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Canadian context

Batman Forever was widely distributed in Canada as part of the global Batman film franchise and remains familiar to Canadian audiences through theatrical release, television, and home video.

Frequently asked questions

What is Batman Forever?
Batman Forever is a 1995 superhero film based on the DC Comics character Batman.
Who directed Batman Forever?
Joel Schumacher directed the film.
Who played Batman in Batman Forever?
Val Kilmer played Bruce Wayne / Batman.
Who are the main villains in the film?
The main villains are Two-Face, played by Tommy Lee Jones, and the Riddler, played by Jim Carrey.
Is Robin in Batman Forever?
Yes. The film introduces Dick Grayson, played by Chris O'Donnell, who becomes Robin.
What film follows Batman Forever?
Batman & Robin, released in 1997, follows it in the same film series.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Batman_Forever
    Supports: Basic film identification, cast, plot, and series placement
  2. DC — https://www.dc.com/movies/batman-forever-1995
    Supports: Official DC overview, cast, director, writers, producers, and genre
  3. Rotten Tomatoes — https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/batman_forever
    Supports: Release date, runtime, genre, synopsis, and production credits