James Gunn’s DC Universe is on the way, and this time, Batman isn’t flying solo. The Brave and the Bold will introduce a new Caped Crusader alongside his son, Damian Wayne — a blade-wielding, League of Assassins-trained Robin.
Whether you’ve never cracked open a Batman comic or just want to brush up before the next movie drops, these stories offer the best blueprint for what’s likely to come. Let’s dive into seven must-reads that could shape the next chapter of Gotham on screen.
1. Batman and Son
By Grant Morrison & Andy Kubert
This is ground zero for Damian Wayne. Morrison’s wild, high-energy arc reveals Bruce’s secret son: Raised by assassins and dropped into Gotham like a tiny wrecking ball. The tension between a cold-blooded kid and a rule-bound dad is *exactly* what The Brave and the Bold promises to explore.
Where to read: Paperback, Comixology, or DC Universe Infinite.
2. Batman: The Black Mirror
By Scott Snyder, Jock & Francesco Francavilla
This one’s underrated and haunting. While Bruce is off the grid, Dick Grayson dons the cowl. The story dives deep into Gotham’s underbelly with a murder mystery full of psychological horror. It’s gritty, grounded, and an absolute mood.
Where to read: Deluxe edition or digital formats.
3. Batman: The Court of Owls
By Scott Snyder & Greg Capullo
One of Gotham’s creepiest secret societies — and a fan-favorite for the DCU.
What if Gotham’s elite have been controlling the city from the shadows for centuries? That’s the terrifying idea behind the Court of Owls, a fan-favorite villain faction that could easily headline a DCU film. This book is modern Batman at its best: suspenseful, mysterious, and visually stunning.
Where to read: Trade paperback or included in DC Universe Infinite.
4. Batman: Hush
By Jeph Loeb & Jim Lee
Think of this as a “greatest hits” of Batman characters — with a psychological twist. Someone’s pulling the strings behind a wave of attacks, and Batman’s forced to revisit every relationship he’s ever had. There’s a rooftop fight with Superman, a major betrayal, and Jim Lee’s pencils are top-tier.
Where to read: Collected editions or digital format.
5. Batman: Year One
By Frank Miller & David Mazzucchelli
This is the definitive Batman origin story. If you want to understand what drives Bruce Wayne — not just the trauma, but the determination and limits — this is essential reading. It’s noir, it’s gritty, and it’s aged better than most.
Where to read: Every comic shop on Earth. Also on DC Universe Infinite.
6. Batman & Robin: Batman Reborn
By Grant Morrison & Frank Quitely
This is where the dynamic really shifts. Bruce is “out of town,” and Dick Grayson fills in as Batman with Damian as his reluctant, stab-happy sidekick. The reversal creates tension, heart, and surprisingly fun banter. If the DCU expands the Bat-Family, expect this vibe.
Where to read: Trade paperback or digital collections.
7. Batman: The Long Halloween
By Jeph Loeb & Tim Sale
A slow-burn murder mystery set over an entire year, this arc shows Batman in full detective mode. You’ll see Gotham’s shift from mob families to supervillains, and it all unfolds like a crime thriller. This book influenced The Batman (2022) heavily, and it’s not done inspiring movies yet.
Where to read: Anniversary edition, digital, or omnibuses.
New to Batman comics? Start with Batman and Son if you’re curious about Damian, or dive into Court of Owls for something modern and mysterious. Both are super accessible and perfect for first-time readers.
Final Thoughts
The DCU is rebooting with a Batman we’ve never seen on screen — a father. These comics aren’t just great reads, they’re likely the foundation for what’s coming next. Whether it’s the raw emotional tension of Batman and Son or the chilling mystery of The Court of Owls, these stories give you a front-row seat to what’s brewing in Gotham.
So get reading. The DCU reboot is coming fast, and if these stories are any clue, things are about to get a whole lot darker — and a whole lot more interesting.
What’s your favorite Batman story that needs a live-action moment? Drop your picks in the comments — we’re all ears (and cowls).
English (US) · 