Crisis of Infinite Episodes - Tales of Metropolis: Jimmy

Tales of Metropolis may not become one of the "classic" series of shorts, but I am really enjoying their overall tone. This was a pretty comical look at the relationship between Superman and his #1 pal, Jimmy - even if it was at the Man of Steel's expense. It was also fun getting a glimpse at "Not Bizarro," the star of the first Tale of Metropolis.

Crisis of Infinite Episodes - Joker's Favor

You never want to be in debt to the Joker. The series had its share of great Joker episodes, but for my money Joker's Favor is the cream of the crop. For one thing, this episode introduced Harley Quinn, not only to animation, but this was her very first appearance anywhere. She would later be adapted to the comics, but her origins were here. So along with that historic bit of trivia, Joker's Favor really captured the Joker's sadistic nature in a way that made him a terrifying not only to Batman but to average Joe's like you and me. All it takes is one bad day...

Crisis of Infinite Episodes - It's Never Too Late

Unlike the previous episodes, this was not one that I really remembered or that I could describe if I heard the title. Its not that this was bad; in fact its a nice small tale with a strong message of redemption. For that, the episode deserves respect. On the other hand the focus on rival mafia men and the absence of a colorful super villain makes this outing pale in comparison to the strong run of episodes leading to it. 

Crisis of Infinite Episodes - Feat of Clay

 

From claws to wings to the heart to feet, our anatomical bat-tour continues...  oh wait, its feat. Nevermind. :) In any case, this is yet another one hot out of the park. Although this is not Clayface's first appearance in animation (that honor going to the wacky 1977 series The New Adventures of Batman), its the first time that he was treated a a legitimate foe for the Dark Knight. Also like Mr. Freeze, Clayface would fade somewhat over the ensuing years, but this was his moment in the sun.And while he may not have been as sympathetic a villian he certainly had all the tragedy of Batman's best enemies.

Crisis of Infinite Episodes - Heart of Ice

I will spare the suspense. This is the finest episode of the series and will presumably be #1 on my "Ones to Watch" list (by the way, Over the Edge is the best of the New Batman Adventures). I suppose there is a chance some other episode will catch me off guard, but my mind is pretty made up by now. Heart of Ice did a few amazing things. First and foremost, it made Mr. Freeze an A-list villain (which has sadly been undone by lackluster depictions in other shows; and lets not even mention Arnold). 

Crisis of Infinite Episodes - On Leather Wings

The Cat and the Claw may have aired first, but this was the true series pilot. Heck, this is the episode that began the DC animated universe and it holds a special place in my heart. I still remember watching this for the first time and being completely blown away. This was like no other cartoon I had ever seen. It was like I was watching the debut of a new Batman movie and I knew that this new Batman cartoon was going to be something special. I just didn't realize how much of an impact it would have on me for years to come.