The wait is finally over!  The Filmation 1968 Batman Bluray set is now available for ordering! Follow the link here to get your copy from Amazon.

​John and Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension get back to the Hall of Justice and open another case from The Filmation Files, this time discussing this long awaited Bluray release.  In it, they talk about the wonderful clarity of the picture, the packaging both good and bad, and the disappointing menu. 

​Comment on the episode here or by writing us at thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

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.

Birds of a Feather Fool Around Together"
May 7 1977

Detective #81
"The Cavalier of Crime"
September 24, 1943
Writer - Don Cameron
Pencils - Bob Kane
Inker - George Roussos

We've got a holiday special for you, Citizens!  The 12 Days of Batmas where John and a special guest sit down and discuss an issue of Batman or Detective Comics and figure out to adapt it to the 1966 television show.

For the 10th day of Batmas, John and author Keith R.A. DeCandido get together to discuss a character that seems to have been created in 1943 with the 1966 TV series in mind - the Cavalier.  They talk about who should play the role, the eccentricity of the crimes committed, and the placement of the cliffhanger.

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

Detective #345
"The Blockbuster Invasion of Gotham City"
September 30, 1965
Writer - Gardner F. Fox
Pencils - Carmine Infantino
Inker - Joe Giella

We've got a holiday special for you, Citizens!  The 12 Days of Batmas where John and a special guest sit down and discuss an issue of Batman or Detective Comics and figure out to adapt it to the 1966 television show.

For the 9th day of Batmas, John and The Fortress of Baileytude's Michael Bailey get together to discuss another man mountain vs. the Dynamic Duo - Blockbuster.  They talk about who should play the role as well as the brother, how to handle the flashback sequence and the fight sequence with Adam West.

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

Batman #75
December 19, 1952
"The Gorilla Boss of
Gotham City"
Writer - David Vern Reed
Pencils - Lew Sayre Schwartz
Inker - Stan Kaye

We've got a holiday special for you, Citizens!  The 12 Days of Batmas where John and a special guest sit down and discuss an issue of Batman or Detective Comics and figure out to adapt it to the 1966 television show.

The wonderful Billy Flynn of Geek Radio Daily joins John in the Batcave for the 8th Day of Batmas to discuss an unusual entry for consideration for Batman 66 - "The Gorilla Boss of Gotham City".  They talk about who should play the role, the need to have the character speak, and the possibility of making it a third season Batgirl episode.

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

Batman #181
"Beware of...Poison Ivy!"
April 19, 1966
Writer: Robert Kanigher
Penciller: Sheldon Moldoff
Inker: Joe Giella

We've got a holiday special for you, Citizens!  The 12 Days of Batmas where John and a special guest sit down and discuss an issue of Batman or Detective Comics and figure out to adapt it to the 1966 television show.

For the seventh day of Batmas, John and 13th Dimension's Dan Greenfield get together to discuss a fan favorite of speculation  - Poison Ivy.  They talk about who should play the role (and it's not who you think), the simplicity of the character in her premiere, and the timing of the premiere.

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

Detective #381
"Castle with Wall-to-Wall Danger"
May 28, 1964
Writer: John Broome
Penciller: Carmine Infantino
Inker: Stan Kaye

We've got a holiday special for you, Citizens!  The 12 Days of Batmas where John and a special guest sit down and discuss an issue of Batman or Detective Comics and figure out to adapt it to the 1966 television show.

For the sixth day of Batmas, John and fellow podcaster Andrew Leyland discuss a fun, but plot thin issue of Detective Comics from 1964.  It's the perfect vehicle to turn into a third season Batgirl episode.  John and Andrew discuss how Batgirl could be worked in, the feasibility of all the settings of the comic, and the casting of the main villain.

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

Batman #81
"The Boy Wonder Confesses
December 2, 1953
Writer: David Vern Reed
Penciller: Sheldon Moldoff
Inker: Stan Kaye

We've got a holiday special for you, Citizens!  The 12 Days of Batmas where John and a special guest sit down and discuss an issue of Batman or Detective Comics and figure out to adapt it to the 1966 television show.

​For the fifth day of Batmas, John and writer Jim Beard discuss Batman #81.  In it, they talk about the look for Mr. Camera, the casting of the villain with gang members, and a means to make the ending a little more exciting.

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

2001  PILOT 
NO AIRDATE

In 2001, the Krofft Brothers attempted to bring back Electra Woman and Dyna Girl for a more modern audience with, what appears they thought were modern sensibilities.  Electra Woman has fallen on hard times as she lives in a trailer park and Dyna Girl has run off with her husband.  A young college student whose Electra Woman had saved as a child makes it a point to return the favor, but she may wind up regretting that decision.

This time around, John and Kevin Eldridge of The Flopcast discuss the ever youthful Markie Post, the use of suggestive situations and language, and should this be looked upon as a sacrilege or as a possible contender for something worthwhile.  Take a listen and let us know what you think by writing us here or at thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

Detective #110
"The Crime Clinic"
February 22, 1946
Writer: Don Cameron
Artist: J. Winslow Mortimer

We've got a holiday special for you, Citizens!  The 12 Days of Batmas where John and a special guest sit down and discuss an issue of Batman or Detective Comics and figure out to adapt it to the 1966 television show.

​For the third day Batmas, John and writer/podcaster Kevin Lauderdale discuss Detective Comics #220.  In it, they talk about how Alan Napier could become more involved in the plot of this late 40s comic as a 66 episode, the elements of Londinium that have already been established and the use of Venerable Ireland Yard.

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

"THE AMAZING ADVENTURES OF LITTLE BATMAN"

Little Preston falls asleep one night after watching the news of four escaped inmates and dreams he is Batman facing the Riddler, Joker, Penguin, and Catwoman!  Can he stop them from attacking the United World Organization?

​John and Robert Long sit down in the Batcave and discuss a fan film that once again features children as actors, but this time, the producer went out of his way to give this as much of a feel of a 66 episode based on the steps he took with the visuals.  Together, the two discuss the tricked out kids' Batmobile that we still want, the collection of Batman memorabilia seen in the production and the appearance of Scott Sebring as Batman. 

​Take a listen and let us know what you think by commenting here or writing us at thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

1949 - Episode Fourteen
"Batman Vs. Wizard"

The Wizard's next target is Jim Gordon, but he also takes out a few others along the way.

​John and writer Jim Beard discuss the 14th episode of the 1949 movie serial.  In it, they discuss how wrong Jim got the identity of the Wizard, the red herrings that abound in the story, and the science of the invisibilty for the Wizard.

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

"Return of the Pharaoh"
Aired: December 18/25, 1976

The Pharaoh returns and wants to trap the Voltage Vixens in King Tut's tomb! 

This time around, John and Kevin Elddrige of The Flopcast discuss the lack of real plot in this episode, American ingenuity, and the premiere of the Wilfred Brimley Podcast.  Take a listen and let us know what you think by writing us here or at thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

1949 - Episode Thirteen
"The Wizard's Challenge"

The Wizard develops an invisibility field that makes him impossible to stop!

​John and writer Jim Beard discuss the 13th episode of the 1949 movie serial.  In it, they discuss the oddness of adding invisibilty to the story, the themes to both movie serials, and the goofy, but charming cliffhanger.

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

"The Dead Ringers"

April 30, 1977

1949 - Episode Twelve
"Robin Rides the Wind"

The Wizard wants the neutralizer in order to continue his crime spree.  Can Batman stop him?

John and writer Jim Beard discuss the 12th episode of the 1949 movie serial.  In it, they discuss the problem with Barry Brown, the midleading chapter title, and the waste of location that should have been Wayne Manor.

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

1949 - Chapter Eleven 
"Robin's Ruse"

Robin must trick the Wizard's men in order to free Bruce.  Will he succeed?

​John and writer Jim Beard discuss the 11th episode of the 1949 movie serial.  In it, they talk the fast paced content in this episode, their list of suspects, and the silliness of the Wizard extending the power of the nullifier.

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

1949 - Chapter Ten 
"Batman's Last Chance!"

Batman infiltrates an office building, where the Wizard's men are hiding out, in a quest to find Vicki Vale.  But Vicki's brother Jimmy is there.  Is he friend or foe?

​John and writer Jim Beard discuss the 9th episode of the 1949 movie serial.  In it, they talk about Jimmy Vale's final fate, the use of footage from 1943, and the buidling the Wizard's men hide out in..

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

1949 - Chapter Nine 
"The Wizard Strikes Back!"

Jimmy Vale is in need of rescuing as he plans to spill the beans on the Wizard.  But is it all too good to be true?

​John and writer Jim Beard discuss the 9th episode of the 1949 movie serial.  In it, they talk about Jimmy Vale, Bruce Wayne - Gordon confidante, and Batman's car program.

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

"The Spider-Lady"
Aired: December 4/11, 1976

The Spider-Lady uses the ultimate disguise, that of Electra-Woman, to steal an idol.

This time around, John and Kevin Elddrige of The Flopcast discuss the creation of Spider-Woman and her relation to Spider-Lady, the special effects of the episode, and the effective use of henchmen in this episode.  Take a listen and let us know what you think by writing us here or at thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

1949 - Chapter Eight 
"Robin Meets the Wizard"

The Wizard threatens the railroad lines with his vehicle control device.

​

John and writer Jim Beard discuss the 8th episode of the 1949 movie serial.  In it, they talk about excessive padding in some of these episodes, the tiresome Batman trapped in a fire cliffhanger, and the dismissive nature of Batman towards Vicki Vale.

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

"THE ASTROLOGER"
October 23, 1976

Monster Squad was a one season NBC Saturday morning live action show for kids in 1976.  In it, Walt, who worked in his uncle's wax museum, discovered that he could bring the figures of Dracula, Frankenstein's monster, and the Wolfman to life.  Wanting to atone for the sins of their past, the trio, with Walt's crime computer set out on a mission to stop evil wherever they found it.

We move on to the seventh episode with the villain - The Astrologer, masterfully played by Jonathan Harris of Lost in Space.  His plan is to make one of his predictions, an earthquake rocking the city, come true by using a thirty year old atomic bomb.

John and Joe Crowe of RevolutionSF and the Dragoncon American SciFi Classics Track discuss the performance of Jonathan Harris, the parallels of the clam trap with Batman 66's Joker/Penguin meetup, and how this is the best Drac episode to date.

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

1949 - Episode Seven 
"The Fatal Blast"

Batman must protect the life of a developer of a device that can counter the Wizard's device.

John and writer Jim Beard discuss the 7th episode of the 1949 movie serial. They talk about the first ever great cliffhanger resolution, Alfred Beagle, and how fatal a blast we will see in this episode.

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

"NO-FACE"
October 16, 1976

Monster Squad was a one season NBC Saturday morning live action show for kids in 1976.  In it, Walt, who worked in his uncle's wax museum, discovered that he could bring the figures of Dracula, Frankenstein's monster, and the Wolfman to life.  Wanting to atone for the sins of their past, the trio, with Walt's crime computer set out on a mission to stop evil wherever they found it.

​We move on to the sixth episode with the villain - No-Face.  Here we have the Batman 66 equivalent to False Face.

​John and Joe Crowe of RevolutionSF and the Dragoncon American SciFi Classics Track discuss the particularly scary look to No-Face, the perfect weapon against werewolves, and the upcoming Manimal podcast.

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

"The Deep Freeze"

April 23, 1977

1949 - Episode Four 
"Batman Trapped"

 The Wizard captures Morton, the inventor of a new energy source.  Batman and Robin save him, but not before the Wizard learns the location of the formula.  Can the Dynamic Duo stop him from obtaining this power?

John and writer Jim Beard discuss the fourth episode of this 15 chapter series.  In it, they talk about Vicki Vale, the Lois Lane of this serial, the sudden character shift in Bruce Wayne to accomodate the story (but not really needed) and the parallels with the comics of the time.

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

1949 - Episode Three 
"Robin's Wild Ride"

Having successfully stolen the large scale model of the device needed to control vehicles, the Wizard's men need to obtain diamonds as well and Batman and Robin are poised to stop them!  

John and writer Jim Beard discuss the third episode of this 15 chapter series.  In it, they talk Alfred and how they like both Alfreds from the two serials, the wait for Robin's "Wild Ride", and the lackluster cliffhangers endings.

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

"The Pharaoh"
Aired: Novmber 20/27, 1976

The Pharaoh steals the Pyramid of Ramsis in order to activate a being of pure energy - Solaris.  John and Kevin Eldridge of The Flopcast are back in Electra-Base keeping Frank company.

​This time around, they discuss the effects in the episode, the more subdued performance of Peter Mark Richman compared to Victor Buono's King Tut, and the terrifying cliffhanger.  Take a listen and let us know what you think by writing us here or at thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

1949 - Episode Two 
"Tunnel of Terror"

Batman finds himself atop a moving train, fighting the Wizard's men, but he's heading for a quick stop.  

John and writer Jim Beard discuss the second episode of this 15 chapter series.  In it, they talk about the literal ups and downs of the story, Johnny Duncan as Robin and how the "Tunnel of Terror" title may not be appropriate considering when the tunnel appears.

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

1949 - Episode One 
"Batman Takes Over"

Batman and Robin are called into service when a device that can control vehicles is stolen by the Wizard.  Who is the Wizard and what is his ultimate goal?

​John and writer Jim Beard are back in the Batcave  and we're discussing the 15 chapter movie serial of 1949.  There are many elements that we would recognize from the comics, but in the end, is this finally proper Batman?  We get into that and lament what wasn't to be seen in this serial.

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

"He Who Laughs Last"

April 16, 1977

"The Return of the Sorcerer"
Aired: Novmber 6/13, 1976

The Sorcerer returns and has plans to trap Electra Woman and Dyna Girl inside Merlin's mirror.  John and Kevin Eldridge of The Flopcast are back in Electra-Base keeping Frank company.

​This time around, they discuss the set design, the "science" behind the time travel take in this story, and cosplaying Frank Heflin.  Take a listen and let us know what you think by writing us here or at thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

"Music Man"
October 9, 1976

Monster Squad was a one season NBC Saturday morning live action show for kids in 1976.  In it, Walt, who worked in his uncle's wax museum, discovered that he could bring the figures of Dracula, Frankenstein's monster, and the Wolfman to life.  Wanting to atone for the sins of their past, the trio, with Walt's crime computer set out on a mission to stop evil wherever they found it.

​We move on to the fifth episode with the villain - Music Man.  This one clearly has Batman 66 DNA all over it from the henchmen to the humor to the appearance of Stanley Ralph Ross.

​John and Joe Crowe of RevolutionSF and the Dragoncon American SciFi Classics Track discuss "Primrose Lane", the humor of Marty Allan and Stanley Ralph Ross' desire to be an actor.

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

The Adventures of Superman

Batman is not acting like himself.  He's showing up at anti-American meetings and encouraging people to support the Germans in World War II.  Robin and Superman team up to find out what is going on.  Sounds like the makings of a great story, but is it?

​John and writer Jim Beard are back in the Batcave as we're wrapping up our look at the 1943 serial as and taking a break between the movie serials of the 1940s by looking at one of the multiple appearances of Batman and Robin on the Superman radio show.  The thing is, who is this man they call Batman?  Jim has a lot of issues with this rendition he feels makes the 43 Batman look legit.  It's so bad, we spend as much time talking about Superman as we do Batman.  Plus, we briefly discuss the Batman Mystery Club pilot radio show.

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

"The Chameleon"
April 9, 1977

The Chameleon is in Gotham City, looking for revenge against Batman.

John and Joe Stuber of Comic Book Central are back in the Batcave talking about this episode that they both clearly enjoyed.  In it, they wonder why Marvel never sued Filmation for taking the names Electro and Chameleon.  They also discuss the joys of introducing new villains to the Batman universe through vehicles such as this.​

​Let us know what you're thinking as you listen to the episode by commenting here or by writing us at thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

"Ali  Baba"
Aired: October  23/30, 1976

This might just be the episode that could be considered the best overall.  It certainly looks and feels like a Batman 66 episode from the villain to the guest stars to the situation that Dyna Girl gets herself into.    John and Kevin Eldridge of The Flopcast are back in Electra-Base keeping Frank company.

​This time around, they discuss how Malachi Throne is the King of the Two-Part TV Stories, the career of Sid Haig, and the great turn Judy Strangis does as an evil Dyna Girl.  Take a listen and let us know what you think by writing us here or at thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

WRITER JIM BEARD TALKS ANOTHER
CHALLENGE FOR THE GREEN HORNET

You thought it was the end of the podcast, but then writer Jim Beard presents another challenge for the Green Hornet, his aide Kato and their rolling arsenal the Black Beauty.  John and Jim sit down to discuss Jim's Green Hornet novella from Moonstone Press, "How Sweet the Sting".  They discuss the challenges and fun moments in writing the book, the unique vision Moonstone Publishing has for the character and Jim's preoccupation with the military in his writing.

Get your copy by ordering from Moonstone Press.

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

"THE TICKLER"

September 25, 1976

Monster Squad was a one season NBC Saturday morning live action show for kids in 1976.  In it, Walt, who worked in his uncle's wax museum, discovered that he could bring the figures of Dracula, Frankenstein's monster, and the Wolfman to life.  Wanting to atone for the sins of their past, the trio, with Walt's crime computer set out on a mission to stop evil wherever they found it.

​For our look at the third episode of the series, we deal with the depressing villain with the misleading name - The Tickler.  He's the first "returning" villain in terms of the Squad has faced him before, but he's new to the viewer.  He wants revenge on Walter and the Squad for sending him away for a long stretch.

​John and Joe Crowe of RevolutionSF and the Dragoncon American SciFi Classics Track discuss the darkness of The Tickler and his henchmen, the great humor that still works in the episode, and the potential for a Monster Squad/Batman 66 team-up facing The Tickler and The Joker.

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

"The Androids"

Aired: October 27, 1973

What gives?  A Super Friends Podcast episode in the Batcave Feed.  John and Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension have often pointed out how elements of the Batman 66 series fed the Filmation 68 cartoon series and then the Super Friends and this episode is a prime example as it has a great deal of the camp you found in the 66 series.

Make sure you check out the podcast via any of the great podcasting apps or by visiting our Libsyn page - http://wgsfp.libsyn.com/

A lunar mission returns to Earth, but the astronauts are missing.  The Super Friends are brought in to investigate and soon discover that the entire space program is endangered by a scientist and his army of androids. 

John and Dan Greenfield of 13th Dimension are at odds over how good this episode is. Together, they discuss how much like a Batman 66 episode this story is, how much the space program meant to us, and how the cartoon was mirroring the Superman comics of the time.

John references The Ultimate Super Friends Companion by Will Rodgers.  Check it out for yourself by purchasing a copy via Amazon.

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

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.

​

​

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.

​

​

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.

 

It's July 29, 1966. The Batman movie is set to premiere the next day in Austin. The Austin Statesman provided a 16 page supplement filled with fun articles and advertisements for Batman. In an age of instant Internet access, we kids back then would have treasured such an insert. 

Download the pdf. 

We conclude our look at the Filmation 68 Batman series.  In it, we discuss the voice work, the animation, and our favorite stories.  In addition, John and Dan Greenfield, creator and author of the 13th Dimension talk about the times the series aired on cable, how the show managed to take some of the better elements of the 66 series while also leaning on the comics, and how the series got better as it progressed.

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

So how does one approach a Batman spoof that wasn't intended to be one?  John and Robert are sitting in the Batcave and watching the infamous Ray Dennis Steckler film, Rat Pfink A Boo Boo.  In it, our hero's girlfriend is being menaced in the first 45 minutes of the film.  Based on the setup, one would think that our hero would turn detective to try and stop it, but when she's kidnapped at the halfway point, he and the gardener in his girlfriend's building enter a closet and come out as the masked avengers - Rat Pfink and Boo Boo.

​John and Robert Long are watching their Bat-Monitors and are cringing at the turn of the events for this film as well as the costumes our heroes wear, while marveling at some of the directing choices and laughing at some genuinely funny lines.  It all adds up to a movie that leaves you scratching your head and wondering what it was you just watched.​

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

Robert Long is a full time graphic 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 Filmmaking to learn more about it.

"It Takes Two to Make a Team" &

"Opera Buffa"

Aired January 1, 1969

Our final look at the Filmation Batman 68 series is a celebration of all that your hosts love about the series.  It has a multi-villain story, Batgirl, Alfred, many nods to the Batman comics of the 50s, current pop culture references and so much more.  In the first story, Riddler, Penguin and Joker team up to break up the team of the Terrific Trio by playing mind games with Robin.  In the second story, the Joker thinks he has finally rid himself of the Dynamic Duo, but he finds himself haunted by their ghosts.

​In addition, John and Dan Greenfield, creator and author of the 13th Dimension discuss how the second half of the series really hit its stride in terms of story telling and lament that there wasn't more after that.  They also give a brief wrap-up by talking about their favorite comics adapted and original villains.

​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

The Wild World of Batwoman

John and Robert Long take on a Batman inspired movie that clearly was trying to cash in on the Batman craze with a heroine that calls herself Batwoman, has an army of Batgirls who help her fight crime, and that's about it.  Producer Jerry Warren exploited not only Batman, but the women in this movie about a mad scientist who wants to create a better world by having beautiful women mate with monsters he's created.  (At least, that's what we got out of it.)

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John and Robert Long are watching their Bat-Monitors and are finding this one difficult to understand or appreciate even with thought it is in English. 

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

Robert Long is a full time graphic 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 Filmmaking to learn more about it.

"The Sorcerer's Golden Trick"

​Aired: September 11/18, 1976

As part of the Krofft Supershow, Electra Woman and Dyna Girl ran for 16 weeks in two part installments.  The series clearly borrowed a great deal in terms of concepts from the Batman 66 television show.  John and co-host Kevin Eldridge of The Flopcast take on these episodes, discussing them scene and scene and exploring what the "Voltage Vixens" have in common with the "Caped Crusaders".

​In the opening episode, The Sorcerer escapes from a maximum security prison with a scheme to steal all the gold from Fort Knox.  But there is something wrong with the scheme as it involves the use of mirrors.  John and Kevin discuss the episode, the guest cast, and try to determine how the Electra Comps work and the extent of their powers.  Let us know what you think by writing us here or at thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

When is a Batman movie not a Batman movie?  When is a wrestling movie not a wrestling movie?  When it's the Batwoman.  This 1968 gem may not have the elements one expects in a Batman ripoff film, but it still has much more going for it than the previous outings.

​John and Robert Long are watching their Bat-Monitors and enjoying this movie with only a few reservations.  

​Take a listen and let us know what you think by commenting here or writing us at thebatcavepodcast@gmail.com.

Robert Long is a full time graphic 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.

"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

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

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'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.