8. Contagion/Legacy
Published: 1996
The Premise: Following the outbreak of a lethal disease in Gotham City Batman and others must race across the globe to find a cure and prevent devastation all while investigating the Order of St. Dumas who is responsible for releasing it.
Why it Would Work: The success of films such as Quarantine, 28 Days Later, and Cabin Fever are proof that people love these kinds of stories. Having it happen within Batman's world would be a great jump from the horror genre and into action/mystery while retaining the same sense of impending doom. It's also an opportunity to see Batman attempt to fight something intangible - something that cannot be psychoanalyzed and fought physically or psychologically. Chaos within the city of Gotham is certainly not a new concept but makes for great storytelling. While the story of Contagion would have to be changed up quite a bit, seeing Batman make temporary alliances with villains while working with other heroes such as Nightwing and Huntress - and the government of all people - would allow for deep characterization. Legacy sees the caped crusader once again seeking a cure as the deadly virus returns to Gotham. The best parts of each story could be combined to make one great television story arc or the virus could show up in a later season when Wayne has thought the threat eradicated. Either way, the story is perfect for adaptation.