Every Screen Batman Ranked From Worst To Best

9. Lewis Wilson (Batman Serial, 1943)

For many people, the first screen Batman doesn't count by virtue of only appearing in serials, but Lewis Wilson arguably belongs on this list more than any of the actors who played the character just once on the big screen. After all, he pulled on the cape and cowl for more than 3 and a half hours (or at least that's how long the serials all lasted).

As Bruce Wayne, Wilson is glorious: a clipped, charismatic hero of the golden era of heartthrobs, whose charm occasionally borders on the chauvinistic - particularly when he's on screen with female characters). All slicked-back hair, killer stylish suits and taking company in his lounge. He's missing the conscious douch-baggery of later versions, but there's something in his smarm that works marvellously.

As Batman, he's very much an action hero playing to audiences still used to silent movies: the same style that would be used by Adam West is here, albeit without the cartoonish sound effects. And you have to give credit to the films (and Wilson's performance) for knowing the power of fear to the character.