For Batman fans, the presence of a captivating chase scene is essential in any live-action Batman movie. The anticipation of seeing Batman behind the wheel, pursuing or outmaneuvering his iconic foes, adds to the excitement of each new DC film.
In this list, we rank the chase scenes from the best live-action Batman movies, determining which ones deserve recognition as the Dark Knight’s most exhilarating moments as Gotham’s ultimate road warrior.
GCPD Chases Batman Chasing Bane’s Goons (The Dark Knight Rises):
Although all Batman movie chases are impressive, the least memorable one comes from The Dark Knight Rises (2012). In this scene, Batman’s return distracts the police from Bane’s henchmen on motorcycles. While there are notable moments, such as Batman’s escape on the Batpod, the editing detracts from the excitement.
Batman and Catwoman Chase Talia (The Dark Knight Rises):
In another chase scene from The Dark Knight Rises, Batman and Catwoman pursue Talia, who carries an atom bomb in a truck. The Bat and the Batpod navigate missiles launched by henchmen, making for an enjoyable sequence, although the editing somewhat dampens its impact.
Joker’s Goons Chase Batman and Vicki Vale (Batman):
The debut of the Batmobile in the 1989 film Batman features a chase where Batman rescues Vicki Vale from Joker’s goons. While it showcases the Batmobile’s cool features, such as the grappling device, the scene feels too short.
Batman and Robin Chase Mr. Freeze (Batman & Robin):
Batman & Robin may have received criticism, but it does have redeeming qualities. The visually stunning chase scene involves Batman and Robin pursuing Mr. Freeze, leading them onto a giant, human-shaped monument. The scene highlights their complex relationship and features a unique production design.
Two-Face Chases Batman (Batman Forever):
In Batman Forever, Val Kilmer’s Batman engages in an intense car chase with Two-Face. Batman’s grappling device allows him to drive up a building, escaping the chaos caused by Two-Face’s goons.
Penguin Controls the Batmobile (Batman Returns):
In Batman Returns, Batman must regain control of the Batmobile, which the Penguin remotely pilots using a repurposed kiddie ride. Afterward, Batman faces a thrilling escape from the GCPD through a narrow alley, showcasing the Batmobile’s initial malfunctioning “Batmissile” feature.
GCPD Chases Batman and Rachel Dawes (Batman Begins):
In Batman Begins Batman employs the Batmobile to evade multiple police cars pursuing him while transporting a poisoned Rachel Dawes. The rooftop jump sequences highlight the Batmobile’s design and agility, leaving a lasting impression.
Batman Chases Joker Chasing GCP and Harvey Dent (The Dark Knight):
In The Dark Knight, Batman pursues the Joker, who attempts to intercept Harvey Dent from an armored SWAT team truck. This sequence introduces the Batpod and culminates in a breathtaking moment when Batman flips Joker’s truck using cables.
Batman Chases Penguin (The Batman):
In Matt Reeves’ The Batman, Robert Pattinson’s Batman engages in a thrilling pursuit of the Penguin. This visually stunning car chase stands out due to its beautiful cinematography, classic construction reminiscent of iconic chases, and the epic finale where Batman defies a hellish inferno.
From intense rooftop jumps to thrilling escapes and epic confrontations, Batman’s chase scenes have been a staple in live-action movies. While each chase offers its own excitement, the ranking showcases the most memorable and exhilarating moments from the Dark Knight’s road warrior adventures. As filmmakers continue to explore Batman’s world, fans eagerly await future chase scenes that may surpass the ones we have seen so far.