Executive Producer of the original Batman film will host screening at Tampa Theatre

On October 2, the historic Tampa Theatre will screen Tim Burton’s iconic 1989 film Batman, a movie that redefined the Caped Crusader’s on-screen image. This film shifted Batman from the campy, colorful hero of the 1960s TV series to a darker, brooding vigilante more aligned with his comic book origins. Its success set the stage for a new era of serious and complex superhero films.

Michael E. Uslan, a lifelong fan, played a pivotal role in transforming the character with a darker vision. After acquiring the film rights in 1979, Uslan spent a decade convincing studios to embrace a more serious tone for the character. His persistence led to the release of the 1989 Batman, and Uslan has remained involved in every Batman-related film or TV project since then.

Experience the legacy of the caped crusader at the iconic movie palace

Uslan’s journey is detailed in his 2011 book, The Boy Who Loved Batman, which has been adapted into a comedic stage show premiering at the Straz Center from October 1-20. To celebrate, Tampa Theatre invites Batman fans to a special screening on October 2 at 7:30 p.m. After the film, Uslan will join local filmmaker Brett Culp for a post-show talk and audience Q&A. Copies of Uslan’s book will be available for purchase, with a signing session to follow.

Tickets are $10 ($7 for members) at the Franklin Street Box Office and $12 online.