10. The Dark Knight Returns (1986)
Frank Miller’s The Dark Knight Returns revolutionized Batman by portraying him as a hardened, authoritarian vigilante in a bleak, dystopian Gotham. This seminal series sparked intense debates about Batman’s evolving moral code, the use of violence, and the political themes woven throughout Miller’s narrative.
Its gritty tone and complex characterization have left a profound impact, shaping the portrayal of Batman in comics and on screen. The story remains a touchstone for conversations about the boundaries of superhero storytelling.