15 Crazy Facts You Just Have To Accept To Enjoy Batman Movies

15. The First Four Films Are All Set In The Same Universe

Though it doesn't seem like it makes sense, it's pretty much a fact that the original Tim Burton/Michael Keaton vehicles were intended to be set in the same universe as the later Joel Schumacher movies, starring Val Kilmer and George Clooney.

How is that possible, you're wondering, given the jarring tonal inconsistencies?

Well, the main slice of evidence we have at our disposal is actor Michael Gough, who played faithful butler Alfred in all four movies. And there's also Pat Hingle, who did the same for Commissioner Gordon. This suggests that - despite the changes in lead actor - audiences were watching the same Bruce Wayne every time.

Which is bizarre, when you think about it.

We're forced to accept that Tim Burton's darker vision of Gotham and its characters somehow morphed into the goofy carnival ride that Joel Schumacher rolled out when Batman Forever and Batman and Robin came into existence.