Why Catwoman Deserves Her Own Batman Movie

Published April 26, 2026, 6:00 PM EDT

Derek leads ScreenRant's training team after two decades crafting stories across gaming, TV, and film. Alongside hosting three acclaimed pop culture podcasts—The Bad Batch and Watch Men among them—he brings fresh perspectives to screen storytelling.

The Joker remains cinema's most iconic villain, proving that compelling antagonists can dominate narratives independently. Yet despite Batman's cinematic legacy, his most famous adversary still waits for proper cinematic treatment.

Catwoman embodies the perfect blend of sophistication and mischief that defines Gotham's most complex antiheroine. While other villains have claimed solo films, Selina Kyle's cinematic journey remains incomplete despite multiple opportunities.

Catwoman's Cinematic Legacy

From classic portrayals to modern interpretations, Catwoman has evolved across generations. Michelle Pfeiffer's definitive performance in Tim Burton's Batman Returns set an enduring standard, while Anne Hathaway brought modern edge to Nolan's era. Recent takes by Zoë Kravitz and others continue this tradition, yet no Batman film has omitted her entirely.

Her absence from major screen projects contrasts sharply with other beloved characters. As DC Studios expands its universe, reconsidering Catwoman's place becomes essential—not just for fans, but for storytelling completeness.

2004's Catwoman: A Cautionary Tale

Halle Berry's 2004 adaptation suffered from poor reception and production issues, becoming a cautionary example of how missteps impact entire franchises. Beyond box office disappointment, the film's failure affected related media, highlighting how critical quality control remains.

Today, with DC's renewed focus, granting Catwoman cinematic autonomy represents both creative opportunity and audience expectation. Her enduring popularity proves she deserves more than cameo appearances.