Not only are there tremendous reference tools for Batman in print, but there are also a number of noteworthy documentaries that take a critical and educative look at Batman both in his fictional history as well as his literal history in publication, film and popular culture.
From the story of co-creator Bob Kane himself to the creation of the "Batman" feature films to a look into the psychology of the character, here is a collection of essential Batman Documentaries:
(NOTE: Some Documentaries are unavailable on YouTube. Information on their locations will be provided as is necessary).
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"Batman & Me: The Bob Kane Story"
Based on the biography of the same name, "Batman & Me" tells the story of "Batman" co-creator Robert Kahn, who would go on to be known as Bob Kane. From his early childhood and introduction to the fantasy of Zorro and Sherlock Holmes to the creation of Batman and his subsequent pride and interest in the wealth and fame as a result of the character's success, this documentary is a fascinating insight into the man who's idea started it all.
This documentary can be found on the DVD/Blu-Ray release of 2008's "Batman: Gotham Knight" animated feature and the DVD/Blu-Ray release of 2012's "Batman: The Dark Knight Returns Part 1."
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"Batman Unmasked: The Psychology of the Dark Knight"
Created in anticipation for Christopher Nolan's "The Dark Knight," "Batman Unmasked" is a fascinating look at Batman and his rogues gallery through the utilization of psychological analysis to educate and enrich viewers with the character complexities these mythic figures possess. Includes interviews with prominent psycho-analytical authorities and authors as well as filmmakers Christopher Nolan, Emma Thomas, Charles Roven and actor Christian Bale.
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"Legends of the Dark Knight: The History of Batman"
Narrated by Mark Hamill, this documentary (included in the Special Edition DVD/Blu-Ray release of Tim Burton's "BATMAN" (1989), spans the publication and film/TV production of Batman from his creation in 1939 to both "BATMAN" and "Batman: The Animated Series" with interviews from quintessential Batman participants including Dennis O'Neil, Paul Dini, Frank Miller, Alex Ross, Les Daniels, Jeph Loeb and several others.
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"A Mirror for the Bat"
A series of talking heads including "Batman" comics scribes and DC Comics heavy's such as Greg Rucka, Paul Dini, Brian Azzerello, Dan Didio, Paul Levitz, Geoff Johns and Gregory Noveck weigh in on all of Batman's greatest foes, shedding personal insight onto what makes them tick and what makes them perfect foils for the caped crusader.
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"Batman Tech"
Plunging into the world of Batman's gadgets and cutting edge technology, "Batman Tech" offers insight on the real world applications of the equipment designed and created by Wayne Enterprises and the possibilities of whether or not items such as the Grappling Hook, the Batsuit, the Batarang or the Batmobile could actually be utilized in the real world of crime fighting and forensics.
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"Shadows of the Bat: The Cinematic Saga of the Dark Knight"
Composed within the Special Edition DVD/Blu-Ray releases of the Tim Burton/Joel Schumacher directed "Batman" films, "Shadows of the Bat" takes us on an incredible journey through the history and production of these four films in a wonderful 6-part odyssey from Michael Uslan's initial desires to produce a definitive Batman film to Joel Schumacher's actual apology for "Batman & Robin."
Portions of this documentary are unavailable on YouTube, including the first two parts of "BATMAN" and the "Batman Forever: Reinventing a Hero" portion.
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"Legends of the Knight" (Brett Culp, 2013)
Featuring a number of interviews including Michael E. Uslan, Dennis O'Neill and pop culture blogger Jill Pantozzi, the trailer for the documentary can be found at the following link, along with instructions on how to request and schedule a screening in your city.
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