A group of super villains have set a doomsday device to go off in one hour and the superheroes must find it before it's too late.  

​John and writer Jim Beard and filmmaker Robert Long are in the Batcave this Christmas Day and discussing the two episode series of specials featuring Adam West, Burt Ward and Frank Gorshin reprising their classic Batman 66 roles.  The first episode is an actual story, of sorts.  The second episode is a roast.  Seriously, it's a roast of the heroes by the villains.  In this episode, we look at the casting of heroes for this team, the lack of real action, and the range of Frank Gorshin.

​It's all here and we want to hear what you think.  Comment here or write us at thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

From the Files of the Batcomputer 49
Eric Elliott & Ian Miller on BATMAN MEETS GODZILLA

John and Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension are back in the Batcave talking with two members of the creative team behind the fan produced BATMAN MEETS GODZILLA comic book, Eric Elliott & Ian Miller.  They talk about the unusual origin of this comic book that is based on a proposed movie from the 60s, they talk spoilers, and they discuss trying to be as faithful to the movie pitch while also including more of the 66 universe's characters.  Take a listen and then head on over to get your free copy of BATMAN MEETS GODZILLA.

From the Files of the Batcomputer 48

Holy Triple Feature! Burt Ward Returns to the Batcave!

 

Burt Ward returns to the Batcave to talk Robin, the Boy Wonder on the eve of his 80th anniversary as a character in the Batman mythos.  But there's also much to celebrate with our own Boy Wonder as Burt tells us about his appearance on the recent Arrowverse Crisis crossover event, his upcoming star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, his Batusi charity event, and the latest news from his animal rescue, Gentle Giants.  John is joined by Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension to share in the celebration.

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

 

 

ABOUT GENTLE GIANTS PRODUCTS, INC.

This event is co-sponsored by Gentle Giants Products, manufacturer of Gentle Giants World Class Canine Nutrition Dog and Puppy Food (www.gentlegiantsdogfood.com).  Natural Non GMO Super Premium Gentle Giants Dog and Puppy Food along with the Gentle Giants Special Feeding and Care Program helps dogs longer, healthier, happier lives up to 27 years with a wonderful quality of life. This amazingly successful nutritious diet was created by Burt and Tracy Ward along with expert pet nutritionists and in consultation with highly respected veterinarians.  It is the charity of Burt Ward and Tracy Ward who take no salary from the sales of Gentle Giants pet foods to intentionally make it affordable so that all dogs can benefit.

Gentle Giants World Class Canine Nutrition Dog and Puppy Food is sold at Walmart Supercenters nationwide throughout the U.S. and Canada, at thousands of other retail stores nationally, including grocery stores, pet stores, veterinary clinics, and feed stores.  Major retailers include Stater Bros, Ralphs, Gelson’s, Save Mart, and Lucky grocery stores, and in March 2020, Gentle Giants Dog and Puppy Food will be in Target stores nationally.

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ABOUT SUPERHEROES TO THE RESCUE, INC. 

This event is co-sponsored by Burt Ward's and Tracy Ward's Superheroes To The Rescue, a production company that produces family entertainment, educational materials, clothing, toys and other merchandise and products to make a better world for all of us to live in.  We seek to empower everyone to do great deeds for others.  We encourage kids of all ages to become Superheroes and do whatever we all can to help those in need – and to care for and protect animals.  The goal is to encourage and empower each and every one of us to realize that We Can All Be Superheroes When We Do Whatever We Can To Help - to use our own special abilities and 'SUPER Powers' to help each other, to help animals, and to help the world.

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ABOUT GENTLE GIANTS RESCUE AND ADOPTIONS, INC.

Burt and Tracy Ward operate the world’s largest giant breed dog rescue.   www.gentlegiantsdogfood.com

Gentle Giants Rescue and Adoptions, Inc. a 501(c)(3) non profit public benefit corporation that has rescued, cared for and found loving forever homes for more than 15,500 dogs during the last 25 years. Through decades for personally caring 24/7/365 for so many thousands of dogs, Burt and Tracy created their special feeding and care program along with their dog and puppy food to help all dogs live the longest, healthiest, happiest lives possible.  Holy 'Quality of Life' Super Feast, Batman! Every day, Gentle Giants Rescue and Adoptions feeds more than 600lbs of Natural Non GMO Gentle Giants Dog and Puppy Food to rescued dogs.

 

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.

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.

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.

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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.

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Links to Gentle Giants

Homepage for Dogfood

Homepage for Rescue Service

Facebook

Twitter

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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.

Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension.com returns to the Batcave to share some of his best picks for holiday gifts for the Batman 66 fan.  We discuss the Funco line of 3.75" figures, the Diamond Select busts, DC Comics 66 line, and Entertainment Factory's Batcave.  It's all here, from the stocking stuffer to the "You love me, you really love me" gift!  Happy holidays!

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

Throughout the run of the podcast, we have often commented on the various locations used in the show and joked about how fora New York-like locale, Gotham City looked a lot like California.  John decided to bring together two fans who have made an extensive study of the locations of the series to have a talk.  They discuss the confusion some have over the locations at the Warner, Fox and Culver City lot, the fact that the front and rear of police headquarters are two different locations, and what locations a Bat-fan can visit today without causing any legal problems.

Check out the video tour Scott Sebring shot over at the 66 message board by clicking on the link. 

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

"Ben Bentley is an internationally published music photographer and Bat-Fan based in the United Kingdom. When Ben isn't behind the camera, you can find him sharing his lifelong love of Adam West's TV Batman as a co-moderator over at the 1966 Batman Message Board (66batman.com). Having traveled to California several times to attend conventions and hang out with Bat-friends, Ben has been lucky enough to try on one of Adam's original screen worn Cowls, meet several surviving cast members from the show and even run up and down the steps of Gotham City Police Headquarters in his own Adam West Batsuit. 

You can keep up to date with Ben's photographic work over on his blog... http://www.benbentleyphoto.tumblr.com or why not come and join Scott, Ben and the gang at the internet's longest standing 1966 TV Batman message board... http://www.66batman.com"

I’m originally from a place called Bradenton in Florida.  I lived there until I turned twenty three and decided to move out to Southern California to pursue my musical ambitions.  Musical ambitions?  Yeah, I was one of those long haired rockers back in the eighties and into the nineties.  The hair mutinied and decided to abandoned ship bit by bit as did the ambitions of being a rock star.  I still dabble when the creative kick in the head won’t leave me alone.  But, I’m not subscribing to Billboard to find out what’s the latest thing or hocking the furniture to buy the latest gear.

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I am a freelance multimedia artist.  Graphic design, web-mastering, audio engineering, video editing, photography, photo retouch or whatever seems to blur the lines of such things is what I do.  Heck, even acting is in the mix.  Prior to this,I spent years in various careers such as a full time recording engineer running tape machines (remember those?) and making albums (remember those?).  Eventually I took a stab at the nine to five with benefits world of music instrument retail and did that for well over a decade.  Won awards and stuff too while I was at it but quite honestly I was pretty miserable most of the time.  I’ve learned so much at all my jobs. From mixing paint to cutting produce, the experiences and people along the way have taught me much.

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Why a blog?  Quite a  few years ago, I started a website  about the 1966 Batman television series starring Adam West at batfriend.com. Very soon after starting the site, I started to experience all kinds of adventures in the wonderful world of Batfandom.  As I wrote about it online, the reaction and feedback prompted me to share more and more about it.  The experiences were numerous and the adventures took me across the country many times as various people from all over the world wide web started to become close friends and colleagues in my real life.

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So the question still exists.  Why a blog now?  Through my experiences, many other things happen or come to mind that don’t really fit simply in the Batman world.  Batman isn’t my life.  It’s just one of the fun parts of it.  So, I’m finally gathering together the many different facets of my thoughts, experiences, and some here and there nonsense to share with those who might enjoy it.  Batman’s still there punching away.  Music is still there banging around in my head.  But, there is even more.

I’ve said it before.  The journey is everything.  And if it’s a good journey, it’s best shared.  Fortunately, I’m incredibly lucky to share so many of them with my wife, love of my life and soulmate, Vickie.  She really is the girl of my dreams.  As of this writing, we’ve been married for over twenty years.  She’s my best friend.

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It’s a fun life and I’m not done yet!

Writer/Producer James Tucker joins John and Dan Greenfield in the Batcave to talk about his involvement with both The Return of the Caped Crusaders and Batman Vs. Two-Face.  James tells us how the projects came about, how they were actually developed at the same time, and how Lynda Carter almost appeared at the end of the second movie as a tease for a Wonder Woman 77 animated movie.  Plus, James shares his memories of watching Batman, shares one of his favorite episodes, and previews the upcoming Scooby-Doo! & Batman: The Brave and the Bold animated movie.

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Check out all the coverage 13th Dimension has given to this Batman vs. Two-Face by clicking on the link.  Plus, check out James' top 13 episodes of the Batman 66 TV series over at 13th Dimension.

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

We conclude our weeklong look at the creative forces behind the Batman Vs. Two-Face release with interviews with producers Jack Tucker and Michael Jelenic and director Rick Morales.  They discuss the making of this feature, the missed opportunities and the possibility of future projects.

​Check out all the coverage 13th Dimension has given to this movie by clicking on the link.

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

We continue our weeklong series of media roundtable interviews with the stars, producers, and director of Batman Vs. Two-Face with Burt Ward.  As one half of the Dynamic Duo for over 50 years, Ward is still as enthusiastic about the role as he was when he first donned the cape and mask.  Here, he talks about the movie and his friend Adam West.  Thanks to Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension, who got to sit in on these roundtable interview events and recorded audio for all of them.

Check out all the coverage 13th Dimension has given to this movie by clicking on the link.

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

Factory Entertainment has an impressive selection of favorite genre collectibles from Game of Thrones to The Green Hornet to ​Ghostbusters to many more.  And now they've created the ultimate Batman 66 collectible in the form of fully functional Batcave.  Barry Eldridge, creative director for Factory Entertainment joins John and Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension to discuss how the project came about, what one can expect from the collectible, and how one can obtain a copy.

​Check out all the coverage 13th Dimension has given to this fantastic project by clicking on the link.

Check out all the coverage 13th Dimension has given to this fantastic project by clicking on the link.

See exclusive pictures of the set.

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

August 16 marks the birthday of Ms. Julie Newmar.  Her role as the first Catwoman on screen still stands as the template that every other actress has followed as she defined the role.  To celebrate, John invites Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension into the Batcave to talk about Ms. Newmar's Catwoman, her roles before and after the Batman 66 series, the characteristics that distinguish a Julie Newmar performance, and her love of gardening.  Plus, Dan release how his friendship with Ms. Newmar developed.

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Check out all the coverage of Ms. Newmar over at the 13th Dimension sight by clicking on this link.

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

A big thank you to all who downloaded and commented on The All-Star Adam West Tribute.  It was a labor of love for John to put together and he's glad to see that it helped many who are coping with the passing of our Caped Crusader.  In the rush to get it out though, John missed placing one of the contributions into the episode.  He presents it here with his humblest apologies to illustrator Al Bigley (who was cool about it, but John wasn't having anyone who contributed miss out.).  Here now is Al's thoughts on the passing of Adam West and his memories of meeting the man himself. 

Award-winning illustrator Al Bigley has been working as an in-demand commercial artist since 1990, providing artwork to such clients as: Golden Books, DC Comics, CTW, Disney, Marvel Comics, Saban, Film Roman, Scholastic, McDonald's, Kenner Toys, and many more.

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Al's work has been used in conjunction with toys, concept art, design, packaging, books , magazines and comics, posters, storyboards, apparel, style guides, and much more!

It's the first new piece of equipment we see in Batman's arsenal against crime in the Batman 66 motion picture.  It comes equipped with a Bat Ladder, Bat Shark Repellent Bat Spray, and a mobile crime lab.  It's the Batcopter! 

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John and Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension sit down to discuss this aviation wonder.  But unlike their previous discussion of the Batmobile, they have someone who is quite familiar with the workings of the Batcopter.  He's owner/pilot Eugene Nock.

​

Eugene joins us to talk about how he first came to know Adam West and many of the cast on Batman back in 1966, how he acquired the Batcopter, and what the schedule is for its East Coast tour this summer.

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

Eugene Nock is the owner/pilot of the original Batcopter as seen on the 66 television show and the Batman motion picture.  Eugene has logged in more than 14,000 hours in the air as a professional pilot.  He is the owner of Nock Entertainment FMX, a group that specializes in aerial shows both with air vehicles and trapeze artists.  Find out more by visiting his websites.

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Main website

Facebook page

Adam West passed away on Friday, June 9th at the age of 88 after a brief battle with Leukemia.  His passing came as a shock to many in the fan community and for John and his guests, it was something that hit them harder than they expected.  John decided to bring 13th Dimension's Dan Greenfield, the Batman 66 message board's Ben Bentley, and Gotham City 14 Miles's Jim Beard together to talk about Adam, his life, his role in their lives, their encounters with the man, and their reaction on hearing the news of his passing.

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

Reis O'Brien joins John and Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension to talk about the upcoming release of the first wave of Batman 66 3.75 inch action figures. They discuss what was the thinking in the choices for the first wave releases and what might be seen in a second wave, plus a look at what the thinking is for action figures in general.

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

Some fun facts to know about Reis O'Brien:

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• Funko Senior Product Designer

• Design Lead on all Funko Action Figures

• Has worked at Funko for over 5 years

• Collects way too many toys (and other weird stuff)

• Is incredibly handsome

Dan Greenfield has done extensive coverage on the Funko Batman 66 line from initial prototype shots to interviews with the designers.  Click on the links below to find out even more info on this exciting new line.

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The Inside Scoop on Funko’s New Batman ’66 Line -- with CONCEPT ART. Click here.

The Art of Sculpting BATMAN ’66: An Interview With Sculptor Shelley Rappleye -- with CONCEPT ART. Click here.

The Secrets of Funko’s BATMOBILE Revealed! -- with CONCEPT ART. Click here.

INSIDE LOOK: Funko’s CATWOMAN Figure. Click here.

Ordering Info on Funko’s BATMOBILE. Click here.

Ordering Info on Funko’s BATMAN ’66 Wave 1 is Coming in June. Click here.

SCREEN TEST BATMAN Will Be a Chase Figure. Click here

"The Beat of the Bat" is a full-length documentary that tells the story of the music of the 1966 "Batman" Television Series and how composers Neal Hefti, Nelson Riddle & Billy May gave Batman his first real musical identity- and one that has remained inexorably tied to the character for over 50 years!

In fact, if you saw the just released "Lego Batman Movie" you might have noticed the numerous references to the music of the TV series.

And face it, you can go up to anyone, anywhere in the world and sing "Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Na!" and they will instantly know what you are talking about!

The music was as important to the show as the bright colors, campy dialogue and tongue-in-cheek performances. Yet, strangely, the story of how it came to be has never been told...

​Until now.

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John is joined by the director of the documentary, The Beat of the Bat, Pat Evans to discuss the importance of the project and the Kickstarter campaign to raise the funds needed to make it a reality.

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

The first album Pat Evans ever owned was Neil Hefti's "Batman Theme & 11 Hefti Bat Songs", which sparked his lifelong love of Bat-Music.  "The Beat of the Bat" is Pat's way of giving back to the talented composers and musicians who created that music.

A talented Graphic Artist, Pat's works has been featured in The Hollywood Reporter and the late, lamented Defamer. Since 2012 Pat has worked as a casting coordinator on many large studio films including "Jason Bourne", "Straight Outta Compton" and "Steve Jobs".

"The Beat of the Bat" marks his directorial debut.

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Websites

Facebook Page

Twitter

The Beat of the Bat

We take a look at another William Dozier pilot for another comic related property.  This time, it's Dick Tracy - He's a Good Cop.  This time though, Dozier went all out with a full length half-hour episode featuring Victor Buono as the villain, Mr. Memory - which starts the batter of questions about where this show was going.  

In "The Plot to Kill NATO", Mr. Memory kidnaps three NATO ambassadors at the request of Major Powers.  His method of operation seems interesting enough, but there is still something lacking in his character.  And yet, despite this, the pilot is an enjoyable viewing experience with a lot of recommend including Jan Shulman as Liz and the well choreographed fight scenes.

John is joined by his The Hornet's Sting co-host, Jim Beard, to pitch these questions.  Just how committed was Dozier to this property? What would a relationship with Chester Gould have been like had the show gone forward? Why wasn't one of the established villains used in the pilot?  And why did Dozier still build in little nods to Batman and The Green Hornet when both shows were on their last legs?

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Any comments or questions on this episode, please post them here or by writing 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

We move into the post-review era with the first in a series of episodes looking at the Batman related works of the producers and stars of the show and at the pop culture influences from the series.  First up, a look at William Dozier's attempt at adapting another DC property - Wonder Woman.  In this curious short, "Wonder Woman: Who's Afraid of Diana Prince?" we are only given a taste of the potential of the series.  Which begs the question, why wasn't a full pilot produced, especially in light of the fact that a full script was commissioned, co-written by Batman scribe Stanley Ralph Ross?  This question and possibly a few more will be asked by John and his guest, Chris Franklin of the Super Mates Podcast.

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

Chris Franklin is a mild-mannered graphic designer by day, but at night, he retreats to his secret headquarters festooned with action figures, and podcasts with his long-suffering wife Cindy on the Super Mates podcast, a proud part of The Fire and Water Podcast Network. Together they take a look at all things geeky, such as comics, TV, movies, and toys, from a couple’s perspective.

It's the end of the third season and John takes one last look before moving on to the next phase of the podcast.  With the help of his listeners who have commented along the way via email and the Facebook page, John comes to a final conclusion about the third season.  Plus, he reveals the plans for the podcast in 2017.  Take a listen and don't forget, as John says on the podcast, if you are listening via iTunes, please take a moment to leave a review. 

Here's the link to the Batgirl Bat-Trap Page that John mentioned in this episode and that has been referred to throughout the third season reviews.

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

Our week-long look at the premiere of The Return of the Caped Crusaders concludes with interviews with the producers of the movie.  Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension joins John to share his Roundtable discussions with writers Michael Jelenic and James Tucker and director Rick Morales.  They discuss how the movie came about and offer their favorite episodes from the 66 series.  

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

�T��he Return of the Caped Crusaders is a 2016 straight to DVD release featuring the voices of Adam West, Burt Ward, and Julie Newmar in their iconic roles as Batman, Robin, and Catwoman.  In the movie, Gotham City is once again plagued by the "core four" of villains from Batman's Rogues Gallery in a story that takes place on the streets of and in the air over Gotham City, plus into outer space!  The movie had a world premiere at New York Comic Con and then was featured in a one-day theatrical release.  John went with his family to experience it and is joined by Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension in this "Quick Thoughts" podcast offering their non-spoiler review.

Just in time for the premiere of The Return of the Caped Crusaders, we're fortunate to bring you audio of a Roundtable discussion featuring Adam West at this past weekend's New York Comic Con.  Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension was able to be among those in the Roundtable and he shares the audio with us.  Adam is very thoughtful in this candid talk with the media about his role on Batman and the portrayal of the character in recent movies.  Plus, as we try to do here with any interview we conduct on the podcast, Dan asks a question of Adam that he admits no one has ever asked him before.  Take a listen to find out what it is and Adam's response.

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

John is joined by Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension to celebrate the birthday of Adam West.  In our tribute, we discuss Adam's style of acting when it came to pre and post-Batman series.  We look some of his best moments on Batman and also discuss other roles outside the series.  John enthuses on Lookwell, a pilot Adam starred that should have gone to series.  Finally, they discuss his resurrection today as a pop-culture icon and how that has paved the way for the interest in the Batman series on its 50th anniversary.

John takes a moment to discuss the trailer for the upcoming Return of the Caped Crusaders direct to DVD animated feature.   Based on what he's seen and heard, he's hopeful this is going to be a good one.  Take a listen and then offer your thoughts here or on our Facebook page or write us at thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

John is joined by Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension to celebrate the birthday of Burt Ward.  While there are disputes over who is the best Batman, the best Alfred, even the best Commissioner Gordon, there is no disputing the definitive Dick Grayson/Robin is Burt Ward.  John and Dan discuss how that magic begin right from the beginning with Burt's audition.  They talk about what made him stand out, in particular his sense of timing when it came to humor.  Finally, they discuss Burt's legacy as we are in the middle of the 50th anniversary of the Batman series.

John is joined by Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension to talk with comic artist Michael Allred.  Allred recently completed his run as cover artist for the Batman 66 comic series.  In this interview, he discusses how Batman and 60s television influenced his artistic endeavours, how he approached the assignment of cover artist, favorite cover assignments, and working with his family in the comics field.  Take a listen and enjoy.

Michael 'Doc' Allred grew up in the 60's and 70's and was surrounded with the best in pop culture and a steady diet of music, movies and comic books including the three B's: Beatles, Bond and Batman to the point of obsession. 
 

So it should come as no surprise that he keeps a hand in film and music (He's the lead singer and guitarist for The Gear), but comic books have always been a seminal source of joy for Mike and that joy remains the main ingredient in most of his work. 

Allred first tasted success in the comics field with his wildly popular MADMAN series, which is currently being developed for a live action film with filmmaker Robert Rodriguez. His earlier work from GRAFIK MUZIK was turned into the cult hit movie G-Men from Hell directed by Christopher Coppola (featuring Robert Goulet as the Devil). Other work includes Red Rocket 7, his history of Rock and Roll told in the context of a sci-fi adventure storyl the Madman spin-off THE ATOMICS and his magnum opus, THE GOLDEN PLATES, where he's illustrating the entire Book of Mormon. 

Mike counts the secret to his success to be his wife, and creative partner, Laura Allred, who is is considered to be one of the best colorists in the business.

John sits down with Deborah Dozier Potter, the daughter of Batman 66 executive producer William Dozier.  They discuss his development of the series, the highs and lows, and his life after the series ended.  In addition, they also talk about Deborah's life as an actress, a Hollywood agent, and an author.  Finally, they talk about how Deborah overcame her Post Traumatic Stress Disorder thanks to the love of her dog, Buster, which led to her writing her book, Let Buster Lead.

Deborah Dozier Potter is a performing arts enthusiast and patron.  She was raised in a family of respected film, television and theatre professionals in New York City, Beverly Hills and Los Angeles.  She worked as a stage and film actress before becoming an actors' agent then starting her own talent agency and management company.  She has lived in Santa Fe, New Mexico, since 1979 and is an active partner in Hotel Santa Fe and Five & Dime general stores, a multi-state retail business.  She authored the 2007 published memoir, Let Buster Lead, subtitled "my discovery of love, post-traumatic stress disorder and self-assurance".   Ms. Potter is a volunteer faculty member of The New Mexico School for the Arts and a political, charity and arts supporter. Her husband, Earl Potter, is a prominent business owner and a retired attorney.  Their son, H. C. “Cody” Potter, also lives in Santa Fe. Potter previously has served as a New Mexico representative to the President's Advisory Council on the Arts/Kennedy Center from 1993 until 2001 and from 2009 to the present. 

January 7th is the birthday of the late Alan Napier.  To celebrate, we here at the Batcave Podcast welcome author James Bigwood who contributed to Alan Napier's autobiography, Not Just Batman's Butler.  James talks about his experiences with Alan Napier, the writing of the book, and some of Napier's better roles.

James Bigwood first met Alan Napier in 1975, when he interviewed him for a profile that eventually appeared in Films In Review in 1979.  Building on his interest in film history, he co-wrote (with Stephen D. Youngkin and Raymond G. Cabana, Jr.) the book The Films Of Peter Lorre, published in 1982, as well as numerous articles on Salvador Dali’s largely unknown film career for such publications as American Film, American Cinematographer and the catalogue for the 1979 Dali retrospective at the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris.  After early attempts at an acting career proved less than successful, he moved into behind the scenes film production, starting as an assistant accountant on Francis Ford Coppola’s COTTON CLUB in 1983.  He has worked variously as Associate Producer, Line Producer and Production Manager on such films as NEW JACK CITY (Warner Bros 1991), JUICE (Paramount 1992), BOB ROBERTS (Paramount 1992), POSSE (Gramercy 1993), ASSAULT AT WEST POINT (Showtime 1994), ROAD TO WELLVILLE (Columbia 1994),  WAITING TO EXHALE (Fox 1995), DOUBLE PLATINUM (ABC 1999), BOYCOTT (HBO 2001), GATHERING STORM (HBO 2002), and the Emmy nominated BRIGHT SHINING LIE (HBO 1998).   In 1995, he co-produced WIDE AWAKE for Miramax, in 1998, he produced THE TEMPEST, starring Peter Fonda, for NBC.  In addition, he has produced six television series: TOUCHING EVIL (USA Cable 2004), THE BLACK DONNELLYS (NBC 2007), LIPSTICK JUNGLE (NBC 2008/2009), MERCY (NBC 2009/2010), THE RED ROAD (Sundance 2013) and BEING MARY JANE (BET 2014) and the mini-series REVELATIONS (NBC 2005).  Along the way, he has managed to keep acting, playing small roles in THE TEMPEST, ROAD TO WELLVILLE, ASSAULT AT WEST POINT, POSSE, BOB ROBERTS, ROANOAK, BOYCOTT, REVELATIONS and LIPSTICK JUNGLE as well as in three films that he wasn’t already working behind the scenes on: SEVEN MINUTES IN HEAVEN, NICK AND JANE, and PANTHERS.  In 1985, he directed the short film CHRISTMAS ON THE ROCKS WITH A TWIST, which he produced with writer Timothy Lonsdale.

It's the holiday season and that means visions of Batman 66 merchandise dancing in our heads.  But what kinds of gifts would really excite the Batfan in your life?  Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension joins John to offer gift suggestions from the high end to the affordable to make the season more bright for all the good Citizens of Gotham City.

The second season has come to an end and what a long, strange trip it's been.  John takes one last look at the episodes that made up the season and offers his thoughts on the season as a whole before moving forward into the third season.

Cosplayer Bob DeSimone talks with John about his life as the Bat.  He tells about the construction of his costume, how impressed Adam West was with it, and how his cosplay has helped him to help others, especially as Boba Fett.  It's all here and a whole lot more on this special episode of the podcast.

Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension and Jim Beard of Gotham City 14 Miles join John to pay tribute to the late Yvonne Craig who played Batgirl/Barbara Gordon on the third season of the series.  They discuss her warmth and charm that made the third season watchable, her other roles, and her chemistry with her costars, in particular Neil Hamilton.

Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension joins John to discuss the Caped Crusaders' aide in the war on crime, the Batmobile.  In this special episode, the two look briefly at its origins, its role as a parter of the two, memorable moments, merchandising, the Batman 66 comic, and personal experiences with the vehicle.  Plus, they announce the winners of the East Coast Comic Con prize package giveaway.

John returns with a look at the replacement discs Warner Brothers offered for the errors in the original discs for the Batman 66 DVD sets.  What did he think? Take a listen and let John know if you agree with him by writing thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

John sits down with the writer and director of Co-Creator: Bill Finger - The Man Behind the Bat.  They discuss the origin of the the play, Finger's legacy, his contribution to Batman 66, and more.  Take a listen and learn how you can attend the premiere of the play in April.

Lenny Schwartz is the writer/ director of such plays asSubject 62, Buster Keaton: Fade to Black, Lucy, The Wire Game, Higher Methods and Fidelity as well as many others. He is also the screenwriter of with Scorpio Film Releasing's film Murder University which is available on DVD in national distribution as well as the films Normal (going around to film festivals) and Accidental Incest (premiering March 22 2015 in RI) as well as Breaking Branches Pictures release Subject 62. He currently lives in RI and directs his plays in RI and NYC.

Daydream Theatre on Facebook

Arctic Playhouse Theatre

John offers his thoughts briefly on the release of the Batman 1966 television series on DVD and Blu-ray.  When it comes to this set, there are three ways of looking at it - the good, the bad, and the dumb.  Take a listen and let John know if you agree with him by writing thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

John and Dan Greenfield of the 13th Dimension website complete the week of special podcasts by putting together ten stories from Batman 1966 that should be included in any marathon viewing.  As the DVD and Blu-Ray sets are about to come out and the holidays are approaching, maybe it's time to sit around the TV with the family and have some fun fighting crime with Batman and Robin.

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.

For day three of our week-long look at the Batman 1966 series, John and Dan Greenfield of the 13th Dimension website discuss the sometimes elaborate, sometimes more mundate cliffhangers and death-traps the Dynamic Duo faced each week in their war on crime.

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.

For day three of our week-long look at the Batman 1966 series, John and Dan Greenfield of the 13th Dimension website discuss the sometimes elaborate, sometimes more mundane cliffhangers and death-traps the Dynamic Duo faced each week in their war on crime.

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.

It's day two of our week-long look at the Batman 1966 series and John and Dan Greenfield of the 13th Dimension website take on the gadgets of the series.  As much as everyone likes to point out how much Star Trek was so futuristic, here was Batman, set in modern times, and featuring a number of futuristic gadgets.

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.

In the first in a weeklong series looking at different aspects of the Batman 66 series, John is joined by Dan Greenfield of the 13th Dimension website to discuss the various villains that have appeared on the show.  The two offered their thoughts on three villains each, for good or for bad.

Stay tuned to the rest of the week as we cover:

Bat-Gadgets

Bat-Traps

Bat-Moments

Episodes for a Batman Marathon

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.

John attended DragonCon 2014 in Atalanta, Georgia and participated in a number of panels.  One of them was for the 75th anniversary of Batman.  The panel was large and there are a lot of voices that you'll hear, but the content is worth it.

Panelists include:

Mike Gordon - writer, publisher, co-host of Earthstation One Podcast

Michael Bailey - podcaster, host of Bailey's Batman Podcast

Will Price - fan

Michael Falkner - podcaster, The Weekly Podioplex, The Chronic Rift

Geena Phillips - blogger, reviewer of the 66 Batman series

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We come to the penultimate episode in our weekly run of podcasts between seasons one and two of the Batman 66 series with a look back at the first season.  John quickly reviews the first season of episodes, what worked and what didn't (which was very few as it was a strong season).  He then interviews Sam Gras.  Sam has submitted a Lego design of the 66 Batmobile for consideration and needs your help to make it a reality.  Listen to the interview to learn more.

Click on the link to cast your vote to make this sweet Lego ride a reality.  Remember, you have to sign up for a free account, but when you see the other projects you can vote for there, you'll be more than happy to do it.

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

Father, Cosplayer, all around Geek - Sam Gras, the original Bat-dad, and his daughter "Robin" are the Dynamic Duo.

Sam is a lifelong Batman fan and loves sharing this passions with his four year-old daughter . As an accomplished Cosplayer, Sam's builds have always incorporated his daughter's needs and ideas. His creativity and ingenuity were recognized at the 2013 NYCC when his Soundwave costume was awarded 'Most Difficult Costume' and voted Fan Favorite in the AOL competition. His latest project, the 1966 LEGO Batmobile, was inspired by his daughter's desire for a Batmobile in which Robin and Batman could ride side-by-side. He is currently gathering supporters in hopes that Lego will make his daughter's dream come true.

Sam's Twitter - @cosplaydadSAM

LEGO Ideas Link  - https://ideas.lego.com/projects/61339

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We continue our weekly podcast run in between the first and second season reviews with an interview with Jim Beard.  Jim has been on the podcast twice before and will return for an early second season episode review.  He is the developer, editor and a contributor to Gotham City 14 Miles, a collection of critical essays on the Batman 66 series.  In this interview, Jim talks with John about the development of the book, the planned sequel, the role of race in the TV Batman universe, the sexuality of the three main villains, and the top three episodes to show the doubting viewer of the relevance of the Batman series.

Get your copy of Gotham City 14 Miles through our Amazon store.  In doing so, you not only get a great collection of essays on the 60's Batman series, but you support The Batcave Podcast as well.  Thank you.

Comment on the episode here or write batcavepodcast@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

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The Batcave Podcast has just completed its look at the first season of the 1966 Batman television series.  Over the course of the first 17 episodes, the podcast has taken shape into something John hopes everyone enjoys.  But there was a different format John considered before going ahead with the show you are listening to today.  He tried out this format by sitting down with author Dayton Ward and the two recorded a commentary on the first episode of the series.  Here is the first part, edited in its entirety for your listenening pleasure.  Stay tuned, Batfans.  Next week, we're looking at the 1966 theatrical release.

TheRiddler has plans for Batman in the form of a lawsuit claiming false arrest, but Batman knows the Riddler is not as innocent as he seems. Can Batman deduce the Riddler's scheme from the puzzles he's hidden inside the lawsuit?  Can he figure out that Robin isn't Robin?  And can we find all the ideas that would be repeated throughout the series that first led to its success and would ultimately lead to its downfall?

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

Dayton Ward is the author of numerous media tie-in fiction works in such realms as Star Trek and The 4400.  He is also the author of such original works as Counterstrike, The Last World War, Book 2 and The Genesis Protocol. When he's not writing or working for a software design firm, he's busy indoctrinating his two lovely daughters into the worlds that have so seriously warped his mind.