For the very first time outside of comics, the origin of Batman was finally told and the use of Scarecrow was inspired. I suspect that Batman Begins elected the villain for the same reason 20 years later; Batman's origin is so tied to fear and the Scarecrow is the self-proclaimed master of fear. Also, at least according to my recollection, Scarecrow is one of the Legion Members that had not yet been given a return appearance. He was due. This was pretty much a perfect episode and one that stands out as being
much darker in tone than was typical of the Super Friends. DVD special features reveal that this was intended as a pilot for a Batman spin-off.
It was a little strange that Robin didn't know about crime alley, but I guess it made way for a brilliant flashback. Especially considering what couldn't be shown, the scene was surprisingly effective. A note, in this little Bruce and family saw Robin Hood instead of Zorro. This one really needs to be seen and should be considered essential viewing for any Bat-fan.
-----
Episode Count: 0498
Series Count: (5 of 10)
it should be noted that the story credit was Alan Burnett who later worked on Batman the Animated Series and Batman Beyond.
ReplyDeleteI was looking foward to this review since first "Crisis of Infinite Episodes" post :D
ReplyDeleteAwesome! Thanks for sticking around.
DeleteThis episode was produced in 1985, before The Dark Knight Returns established that The Mark of Zorro was the movie that the Waynes saw that night.
ReplyDelete