Just wanted to give kudos to hippie_hunter. Why is it that most of these conversations get out of hand? Especially in regards to "The Batman." Just so it's out there, I'm 23yrs. old (as if that really matters anyways) and I also grew up w/Batman: The Animated Series. I own all the volumes and am looking forward to JL & BB next week. To be completely honest, I LOVE the Timmverse. Imo, there's just nothing greater. The Batman, however isn't aimed at my age group. I had my time. As stated earlier, the Timmverse isn't gone, it's cemented itself in both DC and animation HISTORY.
I wish the Timmverse wasn't mistreated by CN and WB, but I'm certainly glad that universe expanded into what it is today. C'mon, '92-'06 is a Damn good run. Let's hand it over to the kids. Let's introduce the new generation to Batman. I've read comments here saying that this is the WRONG way to introduce a new generation to Batman. Really? and Adam West's camp-fest WAS??? Give me a break. You know, the re-runs of the 60's Batman tv show was my first glimpse of the Dark Knight. In spite of the silliness, I grew to like the different adaptations of Batman. Everything from the comics, to cartoons, movies, etc. Hell, if I was able to discover the Legend that is Batman practically on my own, so can this generation of viewers.
All it takes is ONE show to get kids attention. They'll stumble on The Dark Knight Returns, they'll want to see ALL the Batman movies released before their time, they'll want to see the Timmverse. Give them some damn credit and move on. We've got hours upon hours of 'toons under our utility belts preserved on DVD (w/more to come), would it kill you to envision something that DOESN'T belong to you concerning Batman?
I will admit, The Batman isn't the greatest interpretation of the caped crusader, but I'm OK with that. I've found it to be enjoyable/entertaining. Just because I enjoy it, doesn't make me a mindless individual either. I'm simply content w/what TIMM invested his time in (all of us), and am glad the focus is being put on a new generation of Bat-fans. Oh, and YES, Batman will always be a commercial property because the character is such a HUGE part of pop culture...much like Supes. Wherever there is a movie/tv show, there will be toys, deal with it. We made these heroes part of Americana. We are responsible for this character's success (not excluding older fans). You can't sit here and tell me that none of you have EVER boughten movie/tv show based action figures/t-shirts/pj's/etc. It's pointless to sit here and complain that The Batman is a commercial for toys. He-Man or Ninja Turtles anyone?
To those who do enjoy this show: Continue enjoying it! Have fun w/it. IF you're new to the world of the dark knight, go out and read up on The Batman. Tell your friends about the comics. Catch up on the older movies and serials. Have FUN. Also to all of you "The Batman" lovers, thanks for convincing me to check out this show! I'm actually off to buy the Season 1 dvd in a few