"The Jigsaw Jeopardy" &

"Wrath of the Riddler"

Aired December 28, 1968

As you have heard before on the podcast, we're not entirely sure of the broadcast dates or order of episodes when it comes to Filmation Batman 68.  We have been relying on Wikipedia for our schedule.  Based on that, the penultimate episode features a double dose of The Riddler.  In these two stories, he wants to blow up an art museum that refused to feature his artwork and then kidnaps Dick Grayson to stop the development of a crime lab by Wayne Enterprises.

In addition, John and Dan Greenfield, creator and author of the 13th Dimension discuss the inconsistent use of Batgirl in the series, the singular moments where the animation seems above average, and appeal of having Bruce Wayne be an actual character who continues the fight against crime, doing things Batman cannot do.

Comment on the episode here or write thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

 

Dan Greenfield is the editor and co-creator of 13thDimension.com, a website devoted primarily to comics and pop culture, past and present. To him, the basic food groups are Batman, Planet of the Apes, Star Trek (the Original Series), James Bond, the Beatles and the Stones. But if he had to he'd be able to subsist on Batman alone. Channel 11 in New York was his favorite syndicated channel as a kid -- you can guess why -- followed closely by Channel 5. Channel 9 didn't really enter into it unless he was home sick and there wasn't much else on. He's married to his remarkably patient wife Wendy and his best sidekick is his son, Sam. They have two cats,Lex and Zod.

 

Links

13th Dimension Website

Facebook page

Twitter

Direct download: The_Batcave_Podcast_-_Episode_86.mp3
Category:The Adventures of Batman and Robin -- posted at: 5:00am EDT
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Batman 66 Meets
The Green Hornet
Published: #1 June 4, 2014
#2 July 2, 2014
#3 August 6, 2014
#4 September 3. 2014
#5 October 1, 2014
#6 November 19, 2014
Collection: November 25, 2015

A fan favorite among the episodes of the 66 series is when Batman met The Green Hornet.  Used as a means to promote the show, it didn't feature the strongest story or villain, but it was certainly cool to see two hero types having to work together unknowingly to fight the common enemy.  And so it made sense that when the comic of the series was released, a rematch between the two would happen.  And so, with the elements in play, plus the return of Colonel Gumm, now General Gumm plus The Joker, you have a six issue mini-series that has a lot to offer.

John and Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension get together in the Batcave to review DC and Dynamite Comics' offering.  They discuss the fantastic artwork and likenesses of the series, the nice nods to the series and the Batman motion picture, and they compare how they view the work, one from the point of view of someone who has watched The Green Hornet series and one who only watched his appearance on Batman.

Dan Greenfield is the editor and co-creator of 13thDimension.com, a website devoted primarily to comics and pop culture, past and present. To him, the basic food groups are Batman, Planet of the Apes, Star Trek (the Original Series), James Bond, the Beatles and the Stones. But if he had to he'd be able to subsist on Batman alone. Channel 11 in New York was his favorite syndicated channel as a kid -- you can guess why -- followed closely by Channel 5. Channel 9 didn't really enter into it unless he was home sick and there wasn't much else on. He's married to his remarkably patient wife Wendy and his best sidekick is his son, Sam. They have two cats,Lex and Zod.

Links

13th Dimension Website

Facebook page

Twitter

Direct download: Batman_66_Comic_Green_Hornet.mp3
Category:Batman 66 Comic -- posted at: 1:55pm EDT
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For years, fans of Gotham City 14 Miles have been clamoring for a sequel.  Jim Beard comes into the Batcave to explain why it hasn't happened and what he is planning instead - a "sidequel".  Jim is kicking off an anthology of review essays on each and every episode of the Batman '66 series as seen through the eyes of a myriad of authors, some who contributed to Gotham City 14 Miles.

Jim explains the origins of the idea, what it will encompass, and how you can have a hand it making the three volume collection a reality.  Take a listen and then head on over to the project's GoFundMe page to donate.

Comment on the episode here or write thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

 

A native of Toledo, Ohio, Jim Beard was introduced to comic books at an early age by his father, who passed on to him a love for the medium and the pulp characters who preceded it. After decades of reading, collecting and dissecting comics, Jim became a published writer when he sold a story to DC Comics in 2002. Since that time he's written official Star Wars and Ghostbusters comic stories and contributed articles and essays to several volumes of comic book history.

His prose work includes GOTHAM CITY 14 MILES, a book of essays on the 1966 Batman TV series; SGT. JANUS, SPIRIT-BREAKER, a collection of pulp ghost stories featuring an Edwardian occult detective; MONSTER EARTH, a giant monster anthology; and CAPTAIN ACTION: RIDDLE OF THE GLOWING MEN, the first pulp prose novel based on the classic 1960s action figure.

Currently, Jim provides regular content for Marvel.com, the official Marvel Comics website, and is a regular columnist for Toledo Free Press.

 

Websites

http://www.facebook.com/thebeardjimbeard

http://www.sgtjanus.blogspot.com

 

Help make this three volume set a reality by making a donation to the GoFundMe page.  Click here or on the image to be taken to the page.

Direct download: Batcave_File_047.mp3
Category:From the Files of The Batcomputer -- posted at: 7:15am EDT
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It's the first in a series looking at other takes on Batman in other countries, influenced by the 66 series.  We start with Betmen, a Turkish film that, on inspection, clearly should have been a spy film, perhaps even a James Bond one.

John is joined by independent filmmaker and the 1966-1968 Television Batman Facebook group moderator, Robert Long to discuss this film which, despite its flaws, is actually better than one of the episodes of the 66 series (Gasp!  Blasphemy!)  The two discuss the oddness of the stolen American soundtrack, but the lack of Batman theme music in the movie, the strange obsession with long, ponderous walking shots, and how Robin is in many respects a faithful adaptation of the character while Batman is simply horrible.

It's all here and we hope you'll enjoy this diversion, but we do warn you that the nature of the film is not family friendly and as a result, the discussion is not entirely either.  Listener discretion is advised.

 

Robert Long is a full time grapgic designer and independent filmmaker.  As a first generation Batman syndication kid, he manages the 1966-68 Batman Television Series Group on Facebook.  He has had the pleasure to meet and work with Adam West and Julie Newmar with various projects in the past.  Visit Robert's production company - Smash or Trash Independent Filmmakingto learn more about it.

Direct download: Turkish_Batman.mp3
Category:Some Days You Just Can't Get Rid of a Bomb! -- posted at: 7:55pm EDT
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Batman 66 #8
"King Tut Barges In!" &
"The Butler Did It!"
Published: February 19, 2014

 

King Tut is back in Gotham, but he has done nothing wrong other than to steer a barge down Gotham Harbor.  But Batman suspects the phony Pharaoh is up to something and he's proven correct as he pursues him through time to Ancient Egypt.  Plus, Alfred's cousin Eggbert has served his time for his involvement with the Joker in the TV series and he realizes he would never have gotten in trouble if he had lived the life Alfred had.  So he kidnaps Alfred and takes his place!

John and Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension get together in the Batcave to review DC Comics' eighth issue of the 66 series run.  Join them every Wednesday for a new review as they go through every issue of the run and every special edition story as well.

John and Dan talk about how much the Tut on the page is like the Tut on the screen as Victor Buono made the role, the importance of getting Alfred to look like Alan Napier in this particular issue, and how much we want a United Underworld story featuring Archer, Minstrel, Puzzler and Siren.

 

Dan Greenfield is the editor and co-creator of 13thDimension.com, a website devoted primarily to comics and pop culture, past and present. To him, the basic food groups are Batman, Planet of the Apes, Star Trek (the Original Series), James Bond, the Beatles and the Stones. But if he had to he'd be able to subsist on Batman alone. Channel 11 in New York was his favorite syndicated channel as a kid -- you can guess why -- followed closely by Channel 5. Channel 9 didn't really enter into it unless he was home sick and there wasn't much else on. He's married to his remarkably patient wife Wendy and his best sidekick is his son, Sam. They have two cats,Lex and Zod.

 

Links

13th Dimension Website

Facebook page

Twitter

Direct download: Batman66_Comic_8.mp3
Category:Batman 66 Comic -- posted at: 5:00am EDT
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Batman 66 #7
"The Fiend is False!" &
"The Joker's Layoff Riot!"
Published: January, 2014

False Face gets the return engagement many fans of the 66 series have always wanted and this is a story that could easily play out on the 66 seres with one exception (based on budget, that is).  Plus, the Joker is the backup story in a tale that is a comedic take on our employment system.

John and Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension get together in the Batcave to review DC Comics' seventh issue of the 66 series run.  Join them every Wednesday for a new review as they go through every issue of the run and every special edition story as well.

John and Dan talk about how Christopher Jones' artwork nicely reproduces the backlots of the Warner Bros. Studios, how not only the heroes, but the villains are nicely captured in this issue, and the humorous look at how our economic and employment system works in the United States as told through a clever Joker story.

 

Dan Greenfield is the editor and co-creator of 13thDimension.com, a website devoted primarily to comics and pop culture, past and present. To him, the basic food groups are Batman, Planet of the Apes, Star Trek (the Original Series), James Bond, the Beatles and the Stones. But if he had to he'd be able to subsist on Batman alone. Channel 11 in New York was his favorite syndicated channel as a kid -- you can guess why -- followed closely by Channel 5. Channel 9 didn't really enter into it unless he was home sick and there wasn't much else on. He's married to his remarkably patient wife Wendy and his best sidekick is his son, Sam. They have two cats,Lex and Zod.

 

Links

13th Dimension Website

Facebook page

Twitter

Direct download: Batman66_Comic_7.mp3
Category:Batman 66 Comic -- posted at: 5:00am EDT
Comments[0]

Batman 66 #6
"The Conqueror Bookworm" &
"The Kissing Cossack"
Published: December 18, 2013

 

The Bookworm is one of John's favorite villains in the Batman 66 universe and he's back in a story written by new to the series writer, Tom Peyer.  Bookworm is researching Batman's every habit to determine who he really is and wants to sell the information to the highest bidder.  Plus, Olga, Queen of the Cossacks, wants Batman to marry her since he put her Eggy in jail.

 

John and Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension get together in the Batcave to review DC Comics' sixth issue of the 66 series run.  Join them every Wednesday for a new review as they go through every issue of the run and every special edition story as well.

John and Dan talk about how writer Tom Peyer manages to write a story that easily could have been a Batman 66 episode, the ability of artist Ty Templeton to capture the likenesses of the main cast so well, and the odd interjection of a future plot point in the middle of a backup story.

 

Dan Greenfield is the editor and co-creator of 13thDimension.com, a website devoted primarily to comics and pop culture, past and present. To him, the basic food groups are Batman, Planet of the Apes, Star Trek (the Original Series), James Bond, the Beatles and the Stones. But if he had to he'd be able to subsist on Batman alone. Channel 11 in New York was his favorite syndicated channel as a kid -- you can guess why -- followed closely by Channel 5. Channel 9 didn't really enter into it unless he was home sick and there wasn't much else on. He's married to his remarkably patient wife Wendy and his best sidekick is his son, Sam. They have two cats,Lex and Zod.

 

Links

13th Dimension Website

Facebook page

Twitter

 

Direct download: Batman66_Comic_6.mp3
Category:Batman 66 Comic -- posted at: 5:00am EDT
Comments[0]

"The Fiendishly Frigid Fraud" &
"Enter the Judge"
Aired December 21, 1968

It's the final appearance of Mr. Freeze on the Filmation 68 animated series and his record to date has not been well received by John and Dan.  (They had to admit that the Christmas story did work, but mainly because it was a Christmas story for a frigid villain.)  Here, Freeze still comes across as a thug and he's committing another fraud as he did previously with the Vikings, but there's something about the way this story flows that makes it a cut above the others featuring Freeze.  Plus, there's the introduction of The Judge, an original Filmation villain.

In addition, John and Dan Greenfield, creator and author of the 13th Dimension discuss the odd animation choices Filmation would make in particular instances, including the Mr. Freeze story, the darker tone to the Judge and his story, and the missed potential with this really oddball villain.

Comment on the episode here or write thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

 

Dan Greenfield is the editor and co-creator of 13thDimension.com, a website devoted primarily to comics and pop culture, past and present. To him, the basic food groups are Batman, Planet of the Apes, Star Trek (the Original Series), James Bond, the Beatles and the Stones. But if he had to he'd be able to subsist on Batman alone. Channel 11 in New York was his favorite syndicated channel as a kid -- you can guess why -- followed closely by Channel 5. Channel 9 didn't really enter into it unless he was home sick and there wasn't much else on. He's married to his remarkably patient wife Wendy and his best sidekick is his son, Sam. They have two cats, Lex and Zod.

 

Links

13th Dimension Website

Facebook page

Twitter

Direct download: The_Batcave_Podcast_-_Episode_85.mp3
Category:The Adventures of Batman and Robin -- posted at: 4:03pm EDT
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Batman 66 #5
"The Sandman Says Goodnight" &
"The Tail of the Tiger Topaz"
Published: November 20, 2013

 

The Sandman is back in Gotham City with a plan to put the entire populace under his spell while trying to learn the location of the Batcave.  Plus, Batgirl has her hands full taking on Catwoman by herself.

John and Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension get together in the Batcave to review DC Comics' fifth issue of the 66 series run.  Join them every Wednesday for a new review as they go through every issue of the run and every special edition story as well.

John and Dan talk about the modifying of the Sandman character that works in this story, the lack of representation of African Americans in the Batman 66 series, and their happiness at seeing Batgirl and Catwoman cut loose in a knock down, drag out fight.

 

Dan Greenfield is the editor and co-creator of 13thDimension.com, a website devoted primarily to comics and pop culture, past and present. To him, the basic food groups are Batman, Planet of the Apes, Star Trek (the Original Series), James Bond, the Beatles and the Stones. But if he had to he'd be able to subsist on Batman alone. Channel 11 in New York was his favorite syndicated channel as a kid -- you can guess why -- followed closely by Channel 5. Channel 9 didn't really enter into it unless he was home sick and there wasn't much else on. He's married to his remarkably patient wife Wendy and his best sidekick is his son, Sam. They have two cats,Lex and Zod.

 

Links

13th Dimension Website

Facebook page

Twitter

 

Direct download: Batman66_Comic_5.mp3
Category:Batman 66 Comic -- posted at: 5:00am EDT
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It's the end of The Hornet's Sting and we go out with a bang as we review the two-part adventure, "Invasion from Outer Space".  The city is gripped with terror as it appears an alien invasion is happening.  When the aliens do show up at Britt Reid's home, Britt is certain the whole thing is a hoax and he's quickly proven right as the aliens steal an H-bomb and threaten the city with it.  After watching 26 episodes of the 1966-67 ABC television series, The Green Hornet, John and Jim have developed a pretty good idea of what they think works and doesn't work in this series.  They have their ideas of what would make the series better.  And with that in mind, they take a look at this two-parter that is not exactly a fan favorite.  And when all is said and done, from the discussion of the introduction being like Orson Welles' War of the Worlds radio drama to the last ditch effort by William Dozier to produce the show he wanted, John and Jim are at odds over the merits of this two-parter.  Take a listen and see who feels this is a "must" watch and who feels this is a pass and that it's best to think the series ended with "Hornet, Save Thyself".
Direct download: The_Hornets_Sting_023.mp3
Category:The Hornet's Sting -- posted at: 5:00am EDT
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Batman 66: The Lost Episode:
"The Two-Way Crimes
of Two-Face"
Published: November 19, 2014

It's the Harlan Ellison Batman story that featured a never seen villain in the series, finally getting the 66 treatment.  Or does it?

John and Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension get together in the Batcave to review DC Comics' one shot story based on a submitted treatment by Harlan Ellison back in 1966.  Join them every Wednesday for a new review as they go through every issue of the Batman 66 comic book run and every special edition story as well.

John and Dan talk the fantastic art of the comic and the one artistic choice that took John out of the story, the differing Two-Faces in the comics and other media, and whether or not this was ever really a Batman 66 story.

Check out Dan's Interview with the late Len Win, author of the comic adaptation of Ellison's treatment.

 

Dan Greenfield is the editor and co-creator of 13thDimension.com, a website devoted primarily to comics and pop culture, past and present. To him, the basic food groups are Batman, Planet of the Apes, Star Trek (the Original Series), James Bond, the Beatles and the Stones. But if he had to he'd be able to subsist on Batman alone. Channel 11 in New York was his favorite syndicated channel as a kid -- you can guess why -- followed closely by Channel 5. Channel 9 didn't really enter into it unless he was home sick and there wasn't much else on. He's married to his remarkably patient wife Wendy and his best sidekick is his son, Sam. They have two cats,Lex and Zod.

 

Links

13th Dimension Website

Facebook page

Twitter

Direct download: Batman66_Comic_Two-Face.mp3
Category:Batman 66 Comic -- posted at: 5:00am EDT
Comments[0]

"A Perfidious Pieman is Simon" & 
"Cool, Cruel Christmas Caper"
Aired December 14, 1968

Filmation's original Batman baddie, Simon the Pieman, returns for more cross dressing villainy in a story that might just be better than his first appearance.  Simon has a pie themed park for the kiddies all set to launch, but his plans are interrupted by Barbara Gordon and chaos ensues.  Plus, what might just be the best Mr. Freeze story to date deals with Christmas in Gotham City and a scheme to steal valuable Christmas icons.

In addition, John and Dan Greenfield, creator and author of the 13th Dimension discuss the detail that went into creating a mythos for Simon the Pieman, the sadistic streak of Batgirl, and their wish for a full length Batman Christmas special from the 60s.

Comment on the episode here or write thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

 

Dan Greenfield is the editor and co-creator of 13thDimension.com, a website devoted primarily to comics and pop culture, past and present. To him, the basic food groups are Batman, Planet of the Apes, Star Trek (the Original Series), James Bond, the Beatles and the Stones. But if he had to he'd be able to subsist on Batman alone. Channel 11 in New York was his favorite syndicated channel as a kid -- you can guess why -- followed closely by Channel 5. Channel 9 didn't really enter into it unless he was home sick and there wasn't much else on. He's married to his remarkably patient wife Wendy and his best sidekick is his son, Sam. They have two cats,Lex and Zod.

 

Links

13th Dimension Website

Facebook page

Twitter

Direct download: The_Batcave_Podcast_-_Episode_84.mp3
Category:The Adventures of Batman and Robin -- posted at: 9:38am EDT
Comments[0]

"The Hatter Takes the Crown" &
"The Clock King Strikes!"
Published: October 16, 2013

The Dynamic Duo travel to merry old England to track down the Mad Hatter.  There's a lot to love about this story, including the fact that the back up story is actually a follow-up to the main one featuring Clock King.

John and Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension get together in the Batcave to review DC Comics' fourth issue of the 66 series run.  Join them every Wednesday for a new review as they go through every issue of the run and every special edition story as well.

John and Dan talk about why Londinium is never mentioned and yet they're fine with it, the great nods to other aspects of pop culture in the story, and the familial connection between Mad Hatter and Clock King.  

Dan Greenfield is the editor and co-creator of 13thDimension.com, a website devoted primarily to comics and pop culture, past and present. To him, the basic food groups are Batman, Planet of the Apes, Star Trek (the Original Series), James Bond, the Beatles and the Stones. But if he had to he'd be able to subsist on Batman alone. Channel 11 in New York was his favorite syndicated channel as a kid -- you can guess why -- followed closely by Channel 5. Channel 9 didn't really enter into it unless he was home sick and there wasn't much else on. He's married to his remarkably patient wife Wendy and his best sidekick is his son, Sam. They have two cats,Lex and Zod.

 

Links

13th Dimension Website

Facebook page

Twitter

Direct download: Batman66_Comic_4.mp3
Category:Batman 66 Comic -- posted at: 5:00am EDT
Comments[0]

"The Joker Sees Red" &

"Scrambled Eggs"

Published: September 18, 2013

There's a new villain in town, The Red Hood, and he's calling out the Joker.  Batman must work with his greatest arch-villain in order to bring down the Hood and his gang.  Plus, Egghead has captured the Dynamic Duo and placed them in an inescapable egg trap.  But Batman has a trick and a Batcopter up his sleeve.

John and Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension get together in the Batcave to review DC Comics' third issue of the 66 series run.  Join them every Wednesday for a new review as they go through every issue of the run and every special edition story as well.

John and Dan talk the introduction of pre (The Red Hood) and post (Dr. Harley Qunizel) Batman 66 elements into the story, the art style of Joseph A. Quinones, and John's disappointment in the Egghead story.  

 

Dan Greenfield is the editor and co-creator of 13thDimension.com, a website devoted primarily to comics and pop culture, past and present. To him, the basic food groups are Batman, Planet of the Apes, Star Trek (the Original Series), James Bond, the Beatles and the Stones. But if he had to he'd be able to subsist on Batman alone. Channel 11 in New York was his favorite syndicated channel as a kid -- you can guess why -- followed closely by Channel 5. Channel 9 didn't really enter into it unless he was home sick and there wasn't much else on. He's married to his remarkably patient wife Wendy and his best sidekick is his son, Sam. They have two cats,Lex and Zod.

 

Links

13th Dimension Website

Facebook page

Twitter

Direct download: Batman66_Comic_3.mp3
Category:Batman 66 Comic -- posted at: 5:00am EDT
Comments[0]

"Emperor Penguin" & "Chandell's Chanteuse"

Published: August 21, 2013

The Penguin has his own little island nation in the form of an iceberg in Gotham Harbor.  Because of this, he demands ransom for any cargo ship delivering supplies to Gotham City.  And how does he manage to keep this little nation afloat?  He joins forces with Mr. Freeze.  Plus, Chandell is back in Gotham, under the spell of The Siren who has plans of her own.

John and Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension get together in the Batcave to review DC Comics' second issue of the 66 series run.  Join them every Wednesday for a new review as they go through every issue of the run and every special edition story as well.

John and Dan talk about the different art styles of the two stories, the Filmation setup of the Penguin story with a neat 66 series ending, and the various cameos in the Chandell/Siren story.  

Direct download: Batman66_Comic_2.mp3
Category:Batman 66 Comic -- posted at: 5:00am EDT
Comments[0]

"The Riddler's Ruse"

Published: July 17, 2013

 

The Riddler is back in Gotham City with a scheme to steal a series of art treasures that when put together will lead to a greater treasure.  But Batman and Robin, with the aid of a ticked off Catwoman are on his tail

John and Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension get together in the Batcave to review DC Comics' first issue of the 66 series run.  Join them every Wednesday for a new review as they go through ever issue of the run and every special edition story as well.

In the first edition of this review series, they talk about the art and art style used, the rendition of the characters, the inclusion of Catwoman in the story, and the variant covers issued to introduce the series.

Dan Greenfield is the editor and co-creator of 13thDimension.com, a website devoted primarily to comics and pop culture, past and present. To him, the basic food groups are Batman, Planet of the Apes, Star Trek (the Original Series), James Bond, the Beatles and the Stones. But if he had to he'd be able to subsist on Batman alone. Channel 11 in New York was his favorite syndicated channel as a kid -- you can guess why -- followed closely by Channel 5. Channel 9 didn't really enter into it unless he was home sick and there wasn't much else on. He's married to his remarkably patient wife Wendy and his best sidekick is his son, Sam. They have two cats,Lex and Zod.

 

Links

13th Dimension Website

Facebook page

Twitter

 
 
 
Direct download: Batman66_Comic_1.mp3
Category:Batman 66 Comic -- posted at: 8:00am EDT
Comments[0]

"From Catwoman with Love" & 

"Perilous Playthings"

Aired December 3, 1968

 

Catwoman returns for a double dose of treachery as she appears in both the double and single entry stories for this episode of the podcast.  First, she presents the Dynamic Duo the gift of a cat that takes a shine to Robin.  But what is the mystery behind this unexpected gift?  Then, Catwoman takes over a movie studio and plans to trap the Dynamic Duo in the oversized props available to her.

In addition, John and Dan Greenfield, creator and author of the 13th Dimension discuss the creepiness of the cat, Valentina, the disappointment that Superman and Batman never teamed up in Filmation, and the parallels with elements in the one part story with an episode of Challenge of the Super Friends.

Comment on the episode here or write thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

 

Dan Greenfield is the editor and co-creator of 13thDimension.com, a website devoted primarily to comics and pop culture, past and present. To him, the basic food groups are Batman, Planet of the Apes, Star Trek (the Original Series), James Bond, the Beatles and the Stones. But if he had to he'd be able to subsist on Batman alone. Channel 11 in New York was his favorite syndicated channel as a kid -- you can guess why -- followed closely by Channel 5. Channel 9 didn't really enter into it unless he was home sick and there wasn't much else on. He's married to his remarkably patient wife Wendy and his best sidekick is his son, Sam. They have two cats,Lex and Zod.

 

Links

13th Dimension Website

Facebook page

Twitter

Direct download: The_Batcave_Podcast_-_Episode_83.mp3
Category:The Adventures of Batman and Robin -- posted at: 9:42am EDT
Comments[0]

 

 

"Simon the Pieman" &

"A Mad, Mad Tea Party"

Aired November 30, 1968

Filmation introduces a new villain of their creation, Simon the Pieman.  Simon's theme is pastry related crimes while cross-dressing as Mother Apple.  He takes over the crime scene in Gotham City by capturing all the major criminals in Batman's Rogue's Gallery.  How is it that such an odd villain would make such a perfect Batman 66 villain.

Plus, Filmation offers their version of The Mad Hatter, now with the Alice in Wonderland theme.  But there are elements from the 66 show.

In addition, John and Dan Greenfield, creator and author of the 13th Dimension discuss the odd moll Simon has, the odd choice not to have any of the other villains that Simon captures speak considering all the voice talent were involved in this episode, and how Filmation was introducing new stock footage visual images to vary up the content on the show.

Comment on the episode here or write thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

 

Dan Greenfield is the editor and co-creator of 13thDimension.com, a website devoted primarily to comics and pop culture, past and present. To him, the basic food groups are Batman, Planet of the Apes, Star Trek (the Original Series), James Bond, the Beatles and the Stones. But if he had to he'd be able to subsist on Batman alone. Channel 11 in New York was his favorite syndicated channel as a kid -- you can guess why -- followed closely by Channel 5. Channel 9 didn't really enter into it unless he was home sick and there wasn't much else on. He's married to his remarkably patient wife Wendy and his best sidekick is his son, Sam. They have two cats,Lex and Zod.

 

Links

13th Dimension Website

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Direct download: The_Batcave_Podcast_-_Episode_82.mp3
Category:Podcast Episode -- posted at: 6:39pm EDT
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"HORNET, SAVE THYSELF"

AIRED: MARCH 3, 1967

Britt is accused of murder after he kills a former employee in a room full of witnesses.  Now, he must break ranks with Scanlon and go rogue as the Hornet in order to prove his innocence.    John and Jim use this episode as an example of a point they've been making since the very beginning of the podcast, the missed potential in only making these episodes thirty minutes in length.  Despite this, one of the two ranks this episode as one of the best in the series, plus Jim does a wicked impression of Roger Corby from Star Trek.  

The Green Hornet: A History of Radio, Motion Pictures, Comics and Television by Martin Grams and Terry Salomonson is a reference work we're consulting as we move through the series.  Pick up your copy by clicking on the link and getting it today.

Take a listen and then let us know what you think of the episode by writing us here or at thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

Direct download: The_Hornets_Sting_022.mp3
Category:The Hornet's Sting -- posted at: 2:42pm EDT
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"ALIAS, THE SCARF"

AIRED: FEBRUARY 24, 1967

 

The Hornet takes on a killer from the past come back to life.  In another unusual story that didn't fall under the Hornet's usual MO of operations, we're given the series first true rogue.  Does The Scarf live up to the potential the story sets up?  How does he compare with other figures who appear from the past in series such as The Flash and Batman: The Animated Series?  What is it with Casey that her use in the series is so uneven? And what gets Jim and John all excited about Kato in this episode?    

The Green Hornet: A History of Radio, Motion Pictures, Comics and Television by Martin Grams and Terry Salomonson is a reference work we're consulting as we move through the series.  Pick up your copy by clicking on the link and getting it today.

Take a listen and then let us know what you think of the episode by writing us here or at thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

Direct download: The_Hornets_Sting_021.mp3
Category:The Hornet's Sting -- posted at: 10:16am EDT
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Catwoman finds a ringer for Robin and manages to get him to replace the real  deal.  But Batman doesn't appear to be buying it.  Can it proves his suspicions before this ringer can reveal Batman's identity to Catwoman?

Plus, Mr. Freeze kidnaps a maharaja, right under the noses of the GCPD and Batman and Robin.   Can they rescue him before he is frozen and tossed into Gotham Harbor?

In addition, John and Dan Greenfield, creator and author of the 13th Dimension discuss the gaping plot hole of what is one of the best stories of the series, the voice work of Casey Kasum, and the Bat Midget Car.

Comment on the episode here or write thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

 

Dan Greenfield is the editor and co-creator of 13thDimension.com, a website devoted primarily to comics and pop culture, past and present. To him, the basic food groups are Batman, Planet of the Apes, Star Trek (the Original Series), James Bond, the Beatles and the Stones. But if he had to he'd be able to subsist on Batman alone. Channel 11 in New York was his favorite syndicated channel as a kid -- you can guess why -- followed closely by Channel 5. Channel 9 didn't really enter into it unless he was home sick and there wasn't much else on. He's married to his remarkably patient wife Wendy and his best sidekick is his son, Sam. They have two cats,Lex and Zod.

 

Links

13th Dimension Website

Facebook page

Twitter

Direct download: The_Batcave_Podcast_-_Episode_81.mp3
Category:The Adventures of Batman and Robin -- posted at: 8:41pm EDT
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It was a whirlwind three days as John and Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension jetted out to LA for the Batman 66 experience of a lifetime.  And the two meet up in the Batcave to talk about the experiences they shared, from seeing Burt Ward getting a hot dog named after him to visiting Adam West's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, to visiting Bronson Canyon and seeing the Batcave entrance, to getting a chance to tour Barris Kustom Industries (where the Batobile was developed and built), to touring the Warner Brothers lot (where Gotham City Police Headquarters still stands) to spending an evening with Bat-Fans and Bat-Celebrities alike at the opening of the Hollywood Museum Batman 66 exhibit.  The two share their thoughts on all they witnessed in the space of those short few days.

For ticket information on the exhibit head on over to The Hollywood Museum.

Any comments or questions on this episode, please post them here or by writing thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

Direct download: Batcave_File_046.mp3
Category:From the Files of The Batcomputer -- posted at: 8:46am EDT
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Burt Ward, Robin the Boy Wonder himself, returns to the Batcave to talk with John and Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension about the upcoming Batman 66 exhibit at The Hollywood Museum (opening January 12).  He tells us who is really the inspiration for the exhibit, talks about his friend and co-star Adam West, and gives us the ingredients of the Robin the Boy Wonder Hot Dog that will debut at Pink's Hot Dogs on January 9.

Plus, Burt has exciting news about distribution of his Gentle Giants Dog Food, making it easier to obtain for your dog.  Also, he tells us how Gentle Giants is branching into a new line of pet food for your felines.

Links to Gentle Giants

Homepage for Dogfood

Homepage for Rescue Service

Facebook

Twitter

For ticket information on the exhibit head on over to The Hollywood Museum.

 

Any comments or questions on this episode, please post them here or by writing thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

Direct download: Batcave_File_045.mp3
Category:From the Files of The Batcomputer -- posted at: 8:16am EDT
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"A Game of Cat and Mouse" & 

"Beware of Living Dolls"

Aired November 16, 1968

Catwoman pulls off an amazing crime as she not only steals a display of priceless jewels, but she steals the entire castle containing the jewels!  Joker is impressed and wants in on the action, but Catowman refuses.  A contest of wits ensues with Batman and Robin in the middle.  How do they survive?

Plus, it's the debut of Dollman on the cartoon.  But this is not the Dollman of DC Comics, but a villain created by Filmation exclusively for the cartoon.  The story holds up, but the villain doesn't.

In addition, John and Dan Greenfield, creator and author of the 13th Dimension discuss the voice work of Jane Webb, the derivative nature of the Dollman villain, and their excitement at the upcoming Filmation created villains for the series.

Comment on the episode here or write thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

 

Dan Greenfield is the editor and co-creator of 13thDimension.com, a website devoted primarily to comics and pop culture, past and present. To him, the basic food groups are Batman, Planet of the Apes, Star Trek (the Original Series), James Bond, the Beatles and the Stones. But if he had to he'd be able to subsist on Batman alone. Channel 11 in New York was his favorite syndicated channel as a kid -- you can guess why -- followed closely by Channel 5. Channel 9 didn't really enter into it unless he was home sick and there wasn't much else on. He's married to his remarkably patient wife Wendy and his best sidekick is his son, Sam. They have two cats,Lex and Zod.

 

Links

13th Dimension Website

Facebook page

Twitter

Direct download: The_Batcave_Podcast_-_Episode_80.mp3
Category:The Adventures of Batman and Robin -- posted at: 12:00am EDT
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