Rating: 3.5/5 – Revisiting the Adam West Batman from the 60’s
For those who loved the Adam West Batman TV show, Batman ’66 tries to capture that same feel and fun in comic book form. As the tagline at the top of book says, these are “new stories inspired by the classic TV Series”. Because of that this series might not be for everyone, but if you’re looking for that campier and colorful Batman, you’ll enjoy this book’s nostalgic feel.
While the art in this book is superb,(more on that in just a bit) the story is what you’d expect from a book about this era’s Batman. You have Batman and Robin chasing after the Riddler who’s stolen the Lady Gotham statue in bright daylight, right in front of Bruce and Dick who just happen to be in attendance. From there we get the classic use of riddles that has Batman and Robin talking out their solution (of course using “chum” and “gosh Batman), bat-poles and the batmobile, and an appearance by the Julie Newmar influenced Catwoman. All staples of the show, all used in this first issue. Throughout the issue we’re reminded of all the things that made the 60’s tv show so unique. Writer Jeff Parker embraces the quirkiness of the show and makes the most of it.
It’s all drawn and colored by Jonathan Case. The art style truly sets the mood and tone of the book with lots of bright and vibrant colors. From bright greens and blues during the riddler portion of the story to rich reds and purples for Catwoman’s segment, the color choices are just as important as the art in this issue. Case even chooses to use a healthy amount of Ben-Day dots to add to that retro 60’s feel. In some panels and pages I feel that this technique can be overused making it a bit distracting, but for the most part it works, and gives some panels a similar feel to famous Lichtenstein works of the past.
Again, if you’re a fan of the 60’s show then you’ll be pleased with how this book represents the material it’s inspired by. If you were never a fan of the show, or prefer your Batman a bit darker, then this book isn’t for you. I don’t think this issue was enough to bring me back for issue number two, but it was fun to revisit this Batman who was such a big part of my childhood.
Reviewed by: Shawn Hoklas – shawn@comicspectrum.com
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I remember the Batman TV show a bit more fondly than you, Shawn. I agree with everything in your review & would rate the book higher than 3.5 because of the nice nostalgic feelings it evoked, at least a 4/5 from me.
I assume you read this in paper? I know it was originally designed as digital. Did you look at the digital version? Thanks.