Common Sense Media Review
By Will Wade , based on child development research. How do we rate?
Campy classic is still fun, but perhaps too stiff for kids.
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Batman (1960s)
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 10 parent reviews
What's the Story?
When evil strikes, only BATMAN (Adam West) and his daring sidekick Robin (Burt Ward) can stand up to the nefarious supervillains who threaten Gotham City. The Dynamic Duo face a never-ending stream of dastardly schemes, criminal conspiracies, and wicked plots in this classic TV series.
Is It Any Good?
Yes, the show is decades old, and it certainly shows its age, but it's silly fun in a way the few other superhero shows before or since even attempted. Forget about the dark and brooding Caped Crusader we see in more contemporary portrayals -- West's Batman is the ultimate stiff, completely straight-laced and upright in a way that makes the entire show more of a comedy than a drama. It worked then, and it works now; this old show is still entertaining.
However, the value today may be based mostly on nostalgia. It's more likely to be fun for adults who watched it as kids and can still appreciate its singularly odd approach. But young viewers may not find as much here that will appeal to them. Batman is one of the most complex superhero characters, and his psyche has been deeply examined in comic books, films, and several other TV shows. People who are already acquainted with these versions of the Batman saga might find this old gem to be shallow and flawed.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about superheroes. Why do you think Batman is so focused on fighting crime? How does his own tragic history fit into his motivations? How is the violence in this show different from more modern TV violence?
How does this version of the Batman story compare to some of the recent films? Do you prefer this lighthearted take, or the darker, more serious adaptations? How does each affect you?
Talk about what makes the show seem dated. How is the language the characters use different? What about the gender roles depicted?
TV Details
- Premiere date: January 12, 1966
- Cast: Adam West , Burt Ward
- Network: Discovery Family Channel
- Genre: Action
- Topics: Superheroes
- TV rating: NR
- Last updated: August 19, 2023
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