Who wants to see full runs of the animated comics collected in trades?

[EJill34]

Who here would like to see full runs of The Batman Adventures, The Batman & Robin Adventures, Gotham Adventures, Batman Adventures, Batman Beyond, Superman Adventures, Adventures In The DC Universe, and Justice League Adventures collected in a series of trades? I know I would. I'm not too keen on the Peterson/Levins issues of B:GA or most of JLA, but I'd still like to have full runs of all of them in TPBs.

[Maxie Zeus]

I think the more interesting question would be: Who doesn't want to see them collected, and what kind of mental illness would explain such weirdness? :p

[Salvor]

LOL

In case anyone's interested, I also want one million dollars, a date with Alyson Hannigan and some really snazzy shoes... ;)

[Silly McGooses]

It would be REALLY great if they were released as part of those nice archive editions set. Yeah, that's gonna happen...

[DisneyBoy]

I think it would be great for all the Adventures issues to be collection in trade format. They were the only comics I ever read consistently, and there have been some fantastic runs throughout the various titles.

But then again, anyone trying to find back issues wouldn't really have to look much further than your average comic convention, or private collector. Because of this, I'm not sure it would benefit them much to all be collected in trades, but that's mostly because I don't really know if there is a large consumer base for those kind of volumes.

I'm just glad that some of the amazing Millar/Amancio issues of Superman Adventures are coming out in collected editions soon. I don't think they got enough attention.

[Marvel_Knight]

I haven't read Millar on SA, or even Red Son. Is he good (well duh!). I've read BA's most recent TPB (Damsels and Demons?) and own few issues of the newest BA (1, 8 and 12) they were okay. I'd love to see other BA issues, SA, AitDCU, and B&RA in TPBs or better yet, HCs. Don't really care for the newest BA and JLA though.

[EJill34]

I haven't read Millar on SA, or even Red Son. Is he good (well duh!). I've read BA's most recent TPB (Damsels and Demons?) and own few issues of the newest BA (1, 8 and 12) they were okay. I'd love to see other BA issues, SA, AitDCU, and B&RA in TPBs or better yet, HCs. Don't really care for the newest BA and JLA though.
You...don't care for the new Batman Adventures...? I guess to each his own, but...it's so good.

[The Detective]

I'd love to....tracking down all those back issues is hard....

[Marvel_Knight]

You...don't care for the new Batman Adventures...? I guess to each his own, but...it's so good.
It's not because I don't like the series, it's because I have and can read (read) the entire series (except for 11) so far. Sorry for the misunderstanding.

[randomguy]

On one hand, it'd be great to see all those issues compiled, but on the other, it's incredibly easy to track them down. I haven't had any problem at all finding every last issue of the first Batman Adventures series, and I doubt the others will be any more difficult. Of course, I have no intention of collecting Adventures in the DC Universe, Gotham Adventures, or Justice League Adventures...

That being said, I definitely think the animated books deserve the recognition. As long as I'm having a pipe dream, hardcover releases would really rock. DC isn't as into hardcovers of current material as Marvel is (most of their focus is on reprints like the Archive series), and I think it'd be nice to see them release some of their 90's output in hardcover form. Namely the animated books, Morrison and Waid's JLA, and John Ostrander's Martian Manhunter series. And Starman. Definitely Starman.

[The Detective]

On one hand, it'd be great to see all those issues compiled, but on the other, it's incredibly easy to track them down. I haven't had any problem at all finding every last issue of the first Batman Adventures series, and I doubt the others will be any more difficult. Of course, I have no intention of collecting Adventures in the DC Universe, Gotham Adventures, or Justice League Adventures...

That being said, I definitely think the animated books deserve the recognition. As long as I'm having a pipe dream, hardcover releases would really rock. DC isn't as into hardcovers of current material as Marvel is (most of their focus is on reprints like the Archive series), and I think it'd be nice to see them release some of their 90's output in hardcover form. Namely the animated books, Morrison and Waid's JLA, and John Ostrander's Martian Manhunter series. And Starman. Definitely Starman.Nah, hardcovers are waaaaaaaaay to expensive ;)

[randomguy]

Nah, hardcovers are waaaaaaaaay to expensive ;)
Well, if they were priced like the Archive editions, then yeah, they would be. But if they followed Marvel's pricing model for recent material (like with Daredevil Vol. 2, Ultimate Spider-Man, and Ultimate X-Men), then they'd be about as affordable as the trades. For example, buying trades 1 and 2 of Ultimate Spidey will run you about the same amount of money as buying the hardcover Ultimate Spider-Man Vol. 1, which collects the same material. Only with larger pages, better binding, and nifty extras.

That's what I want to see, but like I said, it's a pipe dream.

[Fone Bone]

I would love trade paperbacks of all the books full runs including Gotham Girls and any annuals. That would be a dream come true. I can't find a lot of Batman Adventures or Superman Adventures back issues and when I do find them I have a hard time deciding which to buy. Trade paperbacks are a must.

[DisneyBoy]

Fone, if you're ever not sure of which Adventures issues are worth your money, just give me a shout out. I own virtually all of them...but then again, so do many other folks here, LOL. Well, we're all here for you, if you need us :D


And would trade paperbacks really bring much recognition to the Animated DC world?

[Squall]

Please, please! :D :(

I've missed virtually every issue of all four DCAU comics counterparts -- Batman:TAS/TNBA, Superman:TAS, Justice League, and Batman Beyond -- and I'd buy the trade paperbacks of them in a heartbeat if they were released. I've heard about cool things I've missed, but never seen, in these comics such as:

-Etrigan meets Batman Beyond
-Vandal Savage meets Batman Beyond
-the JLU gets an IJU
-we get to see a lot more of Nightwing
-we get to see what happens after S:TAS "Legacy" but before JL "Secret Origins"
-finally, I've heard and read that some of the DCAU comics stories were so good, they were better than some of the stories actually chosen for TV episodes
-well, on the downside, I've also read and heard that there were a few stories from each of the four comics that were only in comics form for a reason... they were bad stories. (Something about Justice League Adventures #1, in particular, though I have no idea what it was.)

So, all rambling aside, the answer is "YES!" ;)

[Fone Bone]

Fone, if you're ever not sure of which Adventures issues are worth your money, just give me a shout out. I own virtually all of them...but then again, so do many other folks here, LOL. Well, we're all here for you, if you need us :D


And would trade paperbacks really bring much recognition to the Animated DC world?
DisneyBoy, I officially give you a shout out! What about the Vandal Savage BB Squall was talking about? How bout some more recommendations? Continuity based stories are a must.

[screw on head]

Whatever happened to the "Dangerous Dames and Demons" collection that was solicited way back when? Was it released?

It featured a new painted cover by Bruce Timm, but I'm not too sure what issues it collected, the demon guest spot annual is one I bet.

I've been meaning to pick this up at the comic shop, but for some reason I haven't, and that's weird, cause I'd get something like this if it were released...

Did H & I's release have something to do with that I wonder?

[b.t.]

Whatever happened to the "Dangerous Dames and Demons" collection that was solicited way back when? Was it released?

It featured a new painted cover by Bruce Timm, but I'm not too sure what issues it collected, the demon guest spot annual is one I bet.

I've been meaning to pick this up at the comic shop, but for some reason I haven't, and that's weird, cause I'd get something like this if it were released...

it's been out for almost a year now...it collects "mad love", bat-adv. annual #1(roxy rocket and others) and #2 (demon/batman team-up), and the ivy story paul and i did for adv. in the dcu...if your local comics store doesn't have it, check amazon.com...

[TimTwoFace]

Though I have every single animated Batman-related issue to date, I'd still like to see entire collections of the animated DCAU. Since all the comic titles (save for JL Adventures) are going to be over and done with in four months, I think it's a good time to get started.

As far as I know, only the following issues are collected in trade paperbacks:

-BATMAN ADVENTURES #1-6
-BATMAN ADVENTURES #7-12
-BATMAN: GOTHAM ADVENTURES #1-6
-BATMAN ADVENTURES: THE LOST YEARS #1-5

And then, of course, the Dangerous Dames & Demons collection that Mr. Timm mentioned.

Looking for all the back issues is very difficult (believe me, I know - it took me about five years to do it completely), and with all the people STILL getting into the comics, I think it's crazy that DC hasn't come out with anything new since. Bring them out periodically, like six issues at a time if they prefer (as they did with the BATGIRL series), but eventually come around to all of them at some point.

Hopefully. Hopefully. :)

-Tim

[EddieTheEditor]

Maybe they should wait until they have a few more issues of JLA and TTG and then release all the dang serieses in HC.

[b.t.]

if the new digest-sized BATMAN ADVENTURES collections sell really well, i wouldn't be surprised if dc went back at some point and started reprinting the earlier issues (they'll run out of the slott/templeton/burchett stuff in, what, like three volumes?)...there seems to be a huge push these days for that format, not just from dc, but marvel too...the popularity of manga strikes again....sure, i'd prefer full-size collections, but the new format ain't a bad deal: the equivalent of 5 issues at half the cost, and printed on nicer paper to boot, with nice crisp reproduction...then again, i've always been partial to oddball comics formats, from giant "treasury" size to those dinky digest things dc put out in the late-70's/early-80's (though the reproduction quality on the latter was pretty god-awful)....

anyhow....yeah, there sure was a lot of great stuff in the dcau books over the years...there was a lot of crap, too, of course, but the good-to-excellent far out-weighed the bad....the SUPERMAN ADVENTURES book, especially, i think is an undiscovered treasure-trove of comic book goodness....i STILL think it's some of mr. millar's best writing, and aluir's art was terrific, ballsy and fun...

sigh....

[DisneyBoy]

:) I'm glad you've read the various Adventures titles, Bruce. Never saw B:TAS growing up, so these titles were my window into your world.

Fone, I'd be honored to help you distinguish the "must haves" from the "neverminds". Would you like me to run through each Adventures title in chronological order, citing which issues were the ones I'd most recommend, or are there some issues in specific you're wondering about?

I don't believe Vandal Savage was ever featured in an issue of Batman Beyond, considering he only debuted last year on Justice League. I only picked up select issues of Batman Beyond, Adventures in the DC Universe and I've recently dropped Justice League Adventures, but the issues I own are the ones I felt were the most in-line with continuity, or featured main B:TAS/S:TAS characters.

In any case, let me know which format would be most helpful to you ;)

P.S. You're so right...Aluir's work really was ballsy...he brought a dynamic, engaging look to Superman Adventures and was confident about it. Fantastic work.

[screw on head]

it's been out for almost a year now...it collects "mad love", bat-adv. annual #1(roxy rocket and others) and #2 (demon/batman team-up), and the ivy story paul and i did for adv. in the dcu...if your local comics store doesn't have it, check amazon.com...
Thank You! D'oh, and the clerk at the comic shop gave me a blank stare when I asked him about it too. Looks like I'm going to have to break his fingers now.

I've yet to read the ivy story from adv., I've seen pics but not the whole thing. I'll ask them to place it on order for me, this'll be nice to have. But hey, I'd buy it just for that cover.

As for Superman Adv., I missed out on many of the early issues too, and I haven't had much luck in the back bins. I loved Hilary J. Bader's work on the Batman Beyond comics, it'd be nice to have those in a collection some time, I have every issue, but still. Every issue always had a spiffy cover to behold.

[EJill34]

Thank You! D'oh, and the clerk at the comic shop gave me a blank stare when I asked him about it too. Looks like I'm going to have to break his fingers now.

I've yet to read the ivy story from adv., I've seen pics but not the whole thing. I'll ask them to place it on order for me, this'll be nice to have. But hey, I'd buy it just for that cover.

As for Superman Adv., I missed out on many of the early issues too, and I haven't had much luck in the back bins. I loved Hilary J. Bader's work on the Batman Beyond comics, it'd be nice to have those in a collection some time, I have every issue, but still. Every issue always had a spiffy cover to behold.
The 6-issue Batman Beyond mini-series was reprinted in a TPB a few years back if you're interested.

if the new digest-sized BATMAN ADVENTURES collections sell really well, i wouldn't be surprised if dc went back at some point and started reprinting the earlier issues (they'll run out of the slott/templeton/burchett stuff in, what, like three volumes?)...there seems to be a huge push these days for that format, not just from dc, but marvel too...the popularity of manga strikes again....sure, i'd prefer full-size collections, but the new format ain't a bad deal: the equivalent of 5 issues at half the cost, and printed on nicer paper to boot, with nice crisp reproduction...then again, i've always been partial to oddball comics formats, from giant "treasury" size to those dinky digest things dc put out in the late-70's/early-80's (though the reproduction quality on the latter was pretty god-awful)....
I wouldn't mind seeing some more digests if they released them regularly, but I don't see what the big deal about releasing full-size trades is. These TPBs might even make nice tie-in products for the B:TAS/S:TAS box set(s) (plural hopefully). I just hope they release Batman & Robin Adventures Annual #2. I've been dying to get my hands on that one.

And it's an honor to have you posting here, Mr. Timm.

[Silly McGooses]

The Powerpuff Girls digests looked really nice in terms of quality, I'd have to say. I'd love to see digest versions of Batman Adventures

[Squall]

I don't believe Vandal Savage was ever featured in an issue of Batman Beyond...Well, that's just one of the comic stories I've read about on the Internet. Maybe it was from a wish list or a hoax? :( In any case, due to Vandal Savage's being virtually immortal, a Vandal Savage/Batman Beyond run-in (or better yet, a Vandal Savage/JLU run-in!) would make an awesome one-shot comic book... Like a really cool episode of Batman Beyond that never got to be made for TV! :)

Edit: Or even better... maybe some day Timm & Co. could make another Batman Beyond movie, and this time it would be the JLU fighting Vandal Savage!!! :D *salivates at the mere possibility*

[Fone Bone]

:) I'm glad you've read the various Adventures titles, Bruce. Never saw B:TAS growing up, so these titles were my window into your world.

Fone, I'd be honored to help you distinguish the "must haves" from the "neverminds". Would you like me to run through each Adventures title in chronological order, citing which issues were the ones I'd most recommend, or are there some issues in specific you're wondering about?

I don't believe Vandal Savage was ever featured in an issue of Batman Beyond, considering he only debuted last year on Justice League. I only picked up select issues of Batman Beyond, Adventures in the DC Universe and I've recently dropped Justice League Adventures, but the issues I own are the ones I felt were the most in-line with continuity, or featured main B:TAS/S:TAS characters.

In any case, let me know which format would be most helpful to you ;)

P.S. You're so right...Aluir's work really was ballsy...he brought a dynamic, engaging look to Superman Adventures and was confident about it. Fantastic work.
Chronilogical order please. Hightlight the best ones by number and maybe give a brief description on 'em if you could. Continuity based stories are my favorite so unless it's really good I would prefer villians from the various series rather than ones used specifically for the books. Thanks!

[b.t.]

I loved Hilary J. Bader's work on the Batman Beyond comics, it'd be nice to have those in a collection some time, I have every issue, but still. Every issue always had a spiffy cover to behold.

oh yeah, those covers...! i'd plum forgotten.... btas alumnus ronnie del carmen did a short run (4 or 5) of really nifty B-BEYOND covers, and didn't brian stelfreeze do one featuring the jlu? or was that in WIZARD? i remember it was pretty sweet, whichever mag it was on....his terry-batman was real oily and sinister-looking, almost reptillian...

oddly, of all the dcau titles, i think B-BEYOND has the LEAST chance of being reprinted anytime soon...the man of steel and the dark knight are perennials, in ALL media, whereas i get the feeling B-BEYOND seems to be thought of these days as something of an already-out-of-date "flavor of the month"....then again, the recent release of those B-B dvds kinda puts the lie to that...i don't know, maybe it's just me...

[Sprocket]

As long as we're at it...

I want collections of the comics featured in the Superman/Batman magazines.

Now those aren't the easiest to come by.

[DisneyBoy]

Alright kiddies...here we go!

*pulls out The Batman Adventures*

The Batman Adventures

This was the original Adventures title. It even came out a little before the premiere of the Animated Series, I believe. There were 36 regular issues, Two Annuals, One Holiday Special and Mad Love. Believe it or not, Harley and Ivy #1 (hitting stands tomorrow) was also supposed to out during that time, but that didn't quite work out.

In terms of continuity, this series didn't make too many references to particular episodes of the series. It featured all the same characters though, and (obviously) grew to be a fan favorite. You can't go wrong with any issue in this series, but none of them really changed the face of the Animated DC Universe either.

...

I just tried to specify which were the really good stories, and you know what? They're all good. So I'll instead choose to highlight the ones I didn't like as much. It'll make my life a lot easier.


#1, 2, 3 - The first three issues feature gorgeous artwork by Ty Templeton, inks by Rick Burchett and an interlocking story by Kelly Puckett. Puckett ended up writing the majority of the stories in the run, and these three establish Batman's relationships with the Penguin, Catwoman and Joker, in that order. Harvey Dent (pre-breakdown) plays a key role in the third issue.

#4, 5 - This two-parter feauting the Scarecrow is interesting, and explores his character a bit, but the art by Brad Rader doesn't always look right. None of it is bad, mind you, and you may really enjoy it, but for me, these two issues aren't really favorites.

#6 - Bruce Wayne is accused of murder and has to figure out how to prove his innocence while in a cell. A great read with art by Brad Rader. Again, the art is really cool, but just...different. Give it a shot and tell me what you think.

#7 - Killer Croc returns to his roots in the wrestling world in this tale. It's a neat read, but Killer Croc has never really been portrayed well consistantly. This story tries to figure out who he is, but kinda falls flat. This is however, the first issue to be pencilled by the legendary Mike Parobeck, who dominated the rest of this series with his wonderful artwork.

#8 - TV reporter Summer Gleason gets the spotlight in this issue, although it doesn't delve too deeply into her character. Instead, we get a mystery and a romance that you'll love.

#9 - A great action story with stunning artwork by Parobeck. Harvey Dent needs a little red book in order to win his trial and put Rupert Thorne away, so Batman goes to any and all lengths to get it.

#10 - Though this is a Riddler story, we're also introduced to Mastermind, the Professor and Mr Nice, three characters you'll come to love. The were only featured in the Adventures comics, and were intended to be parodies of three guys who worked for DC (don't ask me who though). It's a funny, clever read.

#11 - This Man-Bat story doesn't really link directly to the B:TAS episode "On Leather Wings", but it does explore the addictive nature of formula that transformed Kirk Langstrom.

#12 - This is a wonderful issue...that totally abolishes continuity! It's the first appearance of Batgirl...reimagined. It came out before "The Shadow of the Bat", so I don't know how Parobeck got the costume right, but regardless, it's a funky little precurser to the Gotham Girls franchise.

#13 - A fantastic Talia/Batman issue with ties to #17. They're in Paris together, and it's....well, read it. Just read it.

#14 - Robin's back from school, and while Scarface causes trouble, Alfred tries to help him sort out his future. Great Dick Grayson issue.

#15 - Gordon takes matters into his own hands when one of his men is in serious trouble with Thorne. Great Gordon spotlight.

#16 - The cover of this issue is in reality the opening panel. The Joker takes us, and a hostage (the winner of an "Appear in a Batman comic" contest) on a wild ride. Look for the writers and artists behind this series to appear in a panel, and for the Batman: Gotham Adventures comics...kinda.

#17 - Ra's picks up where Talia left off, and Batman follows him into the desert to stop his madness. Great read. Great artwork. Strange appearance by someone in Ra's organization who seems to have some authority, which makes no sense considering that Ra's doesn't value anyone other than Talia. Ahh forgive 'em. It was his first appearance in the comic.

#18 - Robin and Batgirl join forces when a mayoral candidate gets his hands dirty. Not the best Batgirl/Robin team up, but a good one.

#19 - Scarecrow is invading people's nightmares, and it all has to do with what happened back in issues #4 and #5. Nice read, but Parobeck doesn't quite nail the look of Jonathan Crane. Oh, and Batman eats a sandwich...almost.

#20 - Professor, Mastermind and Mister Nice try to pull the perfect heist, but something gets in the way. I love these three. They were always well written.

#21 - You may hate this issue. Many have. I like it. It's a dramatic union of all the various beastiamorphs featured on the show - Man-Bat, the Werewolf and Tygrus - as Batman and Selina get wrapped up in the ultimate nightmare.

#22 - I LOVE THIS ISSUE. Two-Face makes his triumphant debut and this tale pushes all the right buttons.

#23 - Poison Ivy redeems herself after a slightly off first appearance in #12. This time, Batman needs to her help to cure a poisoned man she admires. That doesn't mean she won't take advantage of the situation. Acachiano, the valley from which the poison was derived, was intended to be a haven of sorts for Ivy, and was later mentionned in The Batman and Robin Adventures #24. That issue stank though, so avoid it like the plague. Kelly Puckett never did get to write that issue where Batman and Ivy finally confront one another there, but hopefully, someday...somehow...that will come to pass *knocks on wood*

#24 - This issue ties into the Ninja episodes from the series, but doesn't stand well by itself. The art is just as good as ever, but unless you know who these folks all are, you probably won't care.

#25 - The second continuity-bending issue in this series is also a must-have. Take a gander at what an animated Superman and Lex Luthor might have looked like. At the very least, this issue makes use of Maxie Zeus and features a gallery of artwork celebrating the 25th issue. Regardless of how they make look, this is the way Batman and Superman interact.

#26 - Barbara Gordon and Dick Grayson cross paths at College and get on each others nerves while Batgirl and Robin flirt endlessly. Gotta love it. Better than their first team-up issue.

#27 - An emotional issue featuring an imposter Batman out for revenge.

#28 - Joker's going crazy in Arkham around the holidays, but he at least has one Doctor on his side. Featuring the show stopping musical number "The Twelve Days of Madness". Read it.

#29 - Batman and Talia cross paths once again, but this time, she's not in the mood for romance. A serious issue that explores some serious issues about the Daughter of the Demon. Read it. Sorry if I'm sounding pushy.

#30 - Mastermind, Nice and Professor make their third appearance, and this one is plain hilarious. Rick Burchett's pencils and Glen Murakami's (Teen Titans) colors knock this one out of the park.

#31 - Mainstream villain Anarky makes his first and only appearance in the animated world, with Robin racing to track him down. A wonderful issue, with great pencils by Dev Madan.

#32 - If you like the idea of Batman fighting extras from "The Patriot" in period costumes, go right ahead. Otherwise, this story really doesn't have much appeal.

#33 - Ty Templeton makes his writing debut in this fan favorite. Plus the characters featured here also pop back up later in Gotham Adventures. Read it.

# 34, 35, 36 - This three parter closes the series with a bang. I can't tell you how much I loved reading these issues, and how hard I cried when I learned it was all ending. Thankfully, the animated world continued to grow. Within these pages, Hugo Strange outgrows his dreadful introduction in the animated show and becomes a huge player in the life of Batman, which is left in the hands of Catwoman. Fantastic. Read it.


I believe all both the Annuals, the Special and Mad Love have been collected in "Dangerous Dames and Demons", a trade paperback which just came out, and there are two volumes which collect the first dozen or so issues of TBA, which you could also track down and save some money on.

What you may have to search for is an odd little oneshot called "Dark Claw Adventures #1", which was part of DC's amalgamation event some years back. Basically, it blends the world of Wolverine with that of B:TAS, but the end result is a story that really focuses in on what could possibly become of Talia. It's along the lines of TBA # 29, but it features stunning art by Ty Templeton and Rick Burchett. Track it down. Definately not in continuity, but it doesn't matter.
________________________________________________________________________________

So there you have it. Six somewhat less entertaining than usual issues out of the entire run. Simply put. Track them all down. You'll enjoy them. None of them are so strange than you'll scratch your head and roll your eyes, and I've already warned you about going into #12 and #25 with an open mind. Definately track them all down.

Let me know if this format works for you before I go on to The Batman and Robin Adventures. Hope this has helped :) As we go along, there'll definately be more issues to avoid, but generally speaking, the Adventuresverse is a nice place to be.

[screw on head]

oh yeah, those covers...! i'd plum forgotten.... btas alumnus ronnie del carmen did a short run (4 or 5) of really nifty B-BEYOND covers, and didn't brian stelfreeze do one featuring the jlu? or was that in WIZARD? i remember it was pretty sweet, whichever mag it was on....his terry-batman was real oily and sinister-looking, almost reptillian...

oddly, of all the dcau titles, i think B-BEYOND has the LEAST chance of being reprinted anytime soon...the man of steel and the dark knight are perennials, in ALL media, whereas i get the feeling B-BEYOND seems to be thought of these days as something of an already-out-of-date "flavor of the month"....then again, the recent release of those B-B dvds kinda puts the lie to that...i don't know, maybe it's just me...
Brian Stelfreeze did indeed do 2 covers featuring the JLU, his Terry had a very haunting quality about him. It's interesting to see him play with this style, he's got quite a one of his own, and I thought he found a very interesting inbetween with these covers. For the sake of shameless plugging, everyone please make sure to check out World's Finest to see all these covers in their glory :D !

In the first few BB issues, the 6 issues that tested the waters I guess, there's a beauty featuring Blight and Terry, and it's creditted to James Tucker. Was that all James? I love that cover in particular, one of my fave's. Darwyn Cooke also did at least one I think, wait, it was actually the last issue ever!

Bob Smith did a bunch of doozies. He did the memorable "Batman vs. Batman" cover, featuring an aged Bruce Wayne in the old costume duking it out with Terry. Real cool fight above a sky scraper, that's a fave as well.

Again, these covers enclosed some awesome stories by Hilary Bader, it'd be worth collecting these together.

Speaking of BB's flavor, just gushing here, I loved Alex Ross's piece for ROTJ, featuring Terry and the Joker and The Bat Family. What a translation, I'd love to see him tackle more BB paintings some time.

[DisneyBoy]

Not to insult you Bruce, but I have to admit I've long been against Batman Beyond. I think I'm coming around more and more as time goes by, and eventually, B:TAS/S:TAS/TNBA/JL/BB are all going to be seen as one giant package deal. A Universe where no chapter can be viewed as a "flavor of the month" as you put it. BB walked that line I think.

[b.t.]

In the first few BB issues, the 6 issues that tested the waters I guess, there's a beauty featuring Blight and Terry, and it's creditted to James Tucker. Was that all James? I love that cover in particular, one of my fave's. Darwyn Cooke also did at least one I think, wait, it was actually the last issue ever!.

if i remember correctly (always an iffy thing), it went something like this: i really wanted "my guys" to do the covers, but i seem to recall dc (i think darren vincenzo was editor of the dcau line at the time) being a bit reluctant, they didn't know james or darwyn from adam at that point....the compromise: james and darwyn pencilled and inked over my rough layouts....

so, i pencilled and inked #1 and 2, james did one and darwyn did one, that leaves two more...which i can't remember for the life of me! gad, how embarrassing, it's not like it was THAT long ago...guess i WILL have to truck on over to "world's finest" to refresh my memory...

[Krypton_Knight]

Thanks for the recaps, DB. I hope you get a chance to do the same for the other lines. Some of them should have been adapted for the series; I don't think Two-Face's arc works as well without "Two-Timer", and "A Christmas Riddle" is as good as any Riddler story ever done for the series. (For Superman, I'd loved to have seen an adaptation of "The War Within").

Anyway, I'm glad to hear about the reprints. These books managed to be great comics that were suitable for kids. Lord knows that's a rare combination.

KK

[b.t.]

ok, i just got done looking at the covers ( at some other site, NOT on world's finest; i found the guide at w.f., but no cover gallery)....for some reason, dc didn't require a b.t. layout for bob smith's cover (#5) , but i DID ink it...was bob already doing covers for BAT ADV at that point?....and james pencilled and inked #6 over my layout...

disney boy, i just read your BAT ADV comic overview....since i'm not allowed to swear here, i'll just say:

holy. cow. :eek:

actually, it's making me want to go back and re-read some of those...hope i can find 'em...maybe it'll give me something to scrounge for at wondercon this weekend....

[Bird Boy]

ok, i just got done looking at the covers ( at some other site, NOT on world's finest; i found the guide at w.f., but no cover gallery)

I've had a comic gallery sitting on my PC for close to a year now. Jim brought it up, I worked on it for a couple weeks...and...I forget what happened. Though I do believe TZ's Comic Section (http://comics.toonzone.net) has all the covers for the animated comics (sans the final issues of B:GA and BA).

I ordered some TPB's just a few weeks ago (April 4th to be exact...) and got the "The Dark Knight Adventures" and "Gotham Adventures" a week ago--and it seems I bought the last Dangerous Dames and Demons (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/1563899736)--as all they have now are ones up for auction, and I'm still waiting on that one. (A quick item check shows it's not arriving till May 18, 2004 - May 31, 2004--exactly how limited was the release on that one anyway :eek: )

But on the topic: I'd love to see more. I need to grab the Lost Years and the one Superman Adventures TPB--gonna pass on the JLA and BA ones though, seeing as I have the single ones.

And on the topic of DB's BA reviews: I forget what issue (I want to say...#3 of the Scarecrow story? Or maybe it was #1, I forget), but there was that one final page of an issue, and it was just the Scarecrow's face. It was so beautifully drawn and shaded--really was a true piece of art. I'll try to find it tomorrow and get a scan up if anyone doesn't know what I'm talking about...

-BB

[Robin]

so, i pencilled and inked #1 and 2, james did one and darwyn did one, that leaves two more...which i can't remember for the life of me! gad, how embarrassing, it's not like it was THAT long ago...guess i WILL have to truck on over to "world's finest" to refresh my memory...
This is the weirdest thing, Mr. Timm. I have that six issue mini-series right beside me. I was actually reading it today. Based on the credits, here is the cover breakdown:

#1 - Bruce Timm
#2 - Bruce Timm
#3 - James Tucker
#4 - Darwyn Cooke
#5 - Bob Smith/Bruce Timm
#6 - James Tucker

I found the Batman Beyond comic mini-series to be sorta lame. I think only four of the six issues really stood out. The ongoing comic was nice, though. Brian Stelfreeze did a few covers, including those really nice JLU ones. I wish this book was still around.

[Salvor]

disney boy, i just read your BAT ADV comic overview....since i'm not allowed to swear here, i'll just say:

holy. cow. :eek:

actually, it's making me want to go back and re-read some of those...hope i can find 'em...Same here! Actually I haven't read them all and thanks to you DB, I just realized I missed some potentially good Two-Face stories. Though I'm surprised you put #6 in the worst issues, to my mind it was by far one of the best. It had a great Hitchcock feel to it, it was very dark and moody, granted, a little darker than usual but I found it interesting that they'd explore such new grounds...

Otherwise, my faves would be the Talia/Ra's issues. I really liked the one in Paris (you know, living in Paris and all :) ). But my favorite run remains the first batch of Batman and Robin adventures by Burchett and Ty, it had the best Ra's story I've ever seen, one heck of a Two-Face two-parter, a good Riddler Christmas story and the best Ventriloquist story I've ever read... among others :)

[DisneyBoy]

Yah...sorry to have grouped Brad Rader's work among the "not so special" issues, cause that's really just me being artistically intolerant. He was the one who drew that awesome Scarecrow full page shot (which acts as the cliffhanger in issue #4), and his use of angles and perspective in #6 really gave the issue a warped, creepy atmosphere. Those three issues aren't bad by ANY means...but they are probably among the ones I reread the least.

And hoo-boy...I can't wait to get my teeth into TB+RA! Check back later today for my run-down on that lovely series :)

And Salvor...you live in PARIS!?!
:eek:
How could you keep this from me?

[Fone Bone]

Thank you, DisneyBoy, that was very helpful. I already have 1, 2, and the Batman/Superman crossover but I'm glad I have some others to look forward to. Sorry for not responding earlier but my computer is a little wonky right now. Hopefully it will be fixed soon.

[Robin]

Same here! Actually I haven't read them all and thanks to you DB, I just realized I missed some potentially good Two-Face stories. Though I'm surprised you put #6 in the worst issues, to my mind it was by far one of the best. It had a great Hitchcock feel to it, it was very dark and moody, granted, a little darker than usual but I found it interesting that they'd explore such new grounds...
I agree. I found issues #4 - 6 to be better, maybe even superior, than issues #1 - 3. The artwork was dark, daring, and fit the mood so perfectly. Seeing as how it was done for a BTAS storyboard artist, how could it not look amazing? It simply does. The artwork in issue #6 is probably Rader's best work, too.

I think I may do a list of my favorite issues, too. It'd be good to have a seperate opinion for people looking for these issues. I own every animated comics (except for the horrible Adventures in the DCU Universe series - save for the issue with the Dini/Timm back up) and I think I could whip up my own list later, if nobody minds.

[Squall]

This is the weirdest thing, Mr. Timm. I have that six issue mini-series right beside me...
Hold on... that's not really Bruce Timm himself, is it? :eek: Wouldn't he choose a nickname that would be less conspicous? :p

Either way, Bruce Timm, you rock! :) I know there are a dozen different versions of the "DC Universe" out there, but in my mind, the DCAU will always be the "official" one. :D

[Salvor]

And Salvor...you live in PARIS!?!
:eek:
How could you keep this from me?Well it's not like I've ever kept this a secret :) I've been living in Paris pretty much for my entire life!

I was just reading SA issues yesterday night. I must say I really really loved the issues by my old pen pal Mike Manley. It's a darn shame he didn't do more issues because he was the best SA artist IMO, even better than Almancio, who was a very close second. Mike has this unique take on the animated style that's just gorgeous :)

[DisneyBoy]

Gah!


When did I say I'd have this done by? Oy. Onward then...

Batman & Robin Adventures

You can't imagine my relief when, upon finishing the final issue of TBA, I discovered another series was on the way. It was merely a relaunch, and not a cancellation! So, after drying my tears and shaking my first at those who had mislead me, I sat down with the first issue of this new series.

In short, B&RA is different from TBA in that its stories (written by Ty Templeton following Dini's opening three issue stint) were much more closely tied into the continuity of the show. Templeton's work also showed a real willingness to develop beyond the constraints of the television show, and would continue to do so in the many years ahead. While many of these stories are real winners, the declining quality of the artwork soured me to the last few issues, leading into The Lost Years miniseries. So, to make life easier, I will once again highlight the stinkers of the group for your convenience.

#1, 2 - The series opens with what I believe is the best two-parter out of all the Adventures tales. Paul Dini dives deep into the relationship between Bruce Wayne and Harvey Dent, as Joker and Harley play mind games. Set against Templeton's flawlessly on-model artwork, this tale introduces readers to Grace Lamont, Harvey's devoted ex-fiancee as the situation with Two-Face takes a turn for the worst. Highly recommended.

#3 - This Christmas issue finds the Riddler holding the Peregrinator Club hostage in an effort to reveal, on television of course, the true identities of Batman and Robin. It's a fun holiday read, with gorgeous Templeton tableaux and Dini dialogue.

#4 - This issue, in which Batman tries to keep a hostage situation instigated by the Penguin from turning fatal, took a while for me to warm up to. Rick Burchett's pencils debuts here, and although he's become a mainstay in the world of Adventures comics, he can't compete with the standard set by Templeton in the first three issues. His style is different, and certainly took some getting used to. This issue also features some irritating yellow highlights, used to make certain characters stand out from the more reality-based coloring. It's a minor quabble, but one which becomes more prominant as the various books develop. Nonetheless, another emotional read.

#5 - Argh. It's hard for me to be objective about this one, since artwork matters just as much, if not more to me than story. On one hand, this issue is the beginning of what has become a notorious rivalry between the Joker and the Riddler for the title of Batman's most brilliant foe. There is even a scene in here that Templeton subtly makes reference to down the road in Batman:Gotham Adventures #10. On the other hand, however, Tim Harkins' artwork is....well...just wild. Burchett's inks save this issue from looking drastically off-model, but you're sure to be thrown by some of awkward camera angles Harkins uses to bring a lighthearted tone to this seriously twisted tale. In the end, I've given this issue the red label of doom, but that may just be because...I've never liked bananas.

#6 - A cheap tabloid prints the news that Batman has fired Robin, and Gotham city is soon plagued by Boy Wonder-wannabes. A great story with really nice art by Burchett.

#7 - I've never really cared much for the Ventriloquist, but in this issue Templeton does his best to change that. This is a dark but revealing read, that I don't particularily find myself rereading often. You be the judge.

#8 - In a definite upswing, Dini returns with this wonderful Harley and Ivy tale...make that a wonderful Harley and Ivy and Robin tale. Each of the lead characters shine and Burchett's artwork really brings the story alive (even though his depiction of Batman is quite squashed). You're not likely to see Ivy quite as sexy, Robin quite as clever or Harley quite as crazy again. Scratch that. Harley does get worse down the line.

#9 - Could I love this issue any more than I already do? Doubt it. Barbara's studies at college are interrupted when Talia arrives on campus. I was quite shocked by how brutal Talia could be, but the animated series and comics always had a tendancy to play up her sexy side, rather than her dangerous one. This story is a welcome change, and Batgirl's personality shines like never before. I'm also pleased to say that the blending of Brandon Kruse's pencils with Burchett's inks create a much more fluid and on-model look. You'll love it, and what comes next.

#10 - If you haven't read it yet, I won't spoil it for you. Let's let the goregous cover speak for itself. Ra's Al Ghul returns. Read it. Kudos to Ty for writing two totally independant stories that compliment one another as nicely as these do. Burchett goes solo.

#11 - There's something in the batcave. I won't tell you what though. This issue was probably intended to be a bit of a swan song of sorts, but a later issue of Gotham Adventures totally contradicts that, unfortunatey. Another good read. Kruse and Burchett reteam until issue #17.

#12 - Bane. Is story directly picks up where this origin episode left off, and it gets deeper into the psyche of the character than any other stories have. Still, I can't find myself liking him, and those pesky yellow panels reappear at the climax. It's a bit of a dud, but it's the best Bane's gonna get.

#13 - Scarecrow shoots Batman up with his gas for the zillionth time, and it's finally starting to drive Bruce mad. I feel like this story's been told before, but Templeton makes Bruce's struggle and Crane's plot unique enough (yah, he goes on TV like everyone else, but it's how he does it that's clever, kinda) for me to overlook that point. A nice throw-away line in Gotham Adventures pays homage to a new thug introduced here: The Iceman.

#14 - New character alert! "Dagger's Tale" revolves around the life and crimes of one Dagger Dixon. I really disliked this story the first time around. It focuses on a no-namer who's life is depressing. I give credit to Templeton for venturing out into unknown territory, but this story isn't a fav. It does, however, continue on in Gotham Adventures. That, coupled with good storytelling and nice art, is enough to keep it from getting red-tagged.

#15 - I have issues with this story. Firstly, when Dick Grayson returns to Haley's Circus and dons his old costume (which should be too small) the colorist totally botches up the colors. I mean, they got them right on the cover, so why not on the interiors? Anyway, the New Character Alert sounds again for Boston Brand, who makes his debut here. Overall, this is an interesting story that handles Dick's return to the Big Top in a much more satisfying way than TNBA's "Animal Act", but I didn't, and still don't, like the ending. Nonetheless, a good read, which paves the way for another good issue of Gotham Adventures.

#16 - If the last issue was contradicted by an TNBA episode, then this one was also. New Character Alert rings loud and long for Thomas Blake, who would end up appearing in "Cult of the Cat" to an entirely different extent. The cover on this one is amusing. Are Batman and Robin reaching out and screaming because they fear for Catwoman's safety, or are they simply concerned with the fact that they forgot their grappling hooks, and will also soon end up splattered across the pavement? Hmmmm...Fun issue, and the last time we'll see Selina with long blonde hair. Don't ask me why though. She needs that hair back. Do you hear me Ty? Timm? Anybody?

#17 - Finally, an issue for me to gush over. The story of the Mad Hatter gets real closure. Joe Staton's artwork somehow manages to please me. What more could you ask for? Read it.

#18 - ....ugh. That was a brief high. Brandon Kruse is left with his pants around his ankles as Terry Beatty steps in for Rick Burchett. The story may be great, but I just can't seem to find it behind all the ugly artwork. I know that sounds rude, but it's how I honestly feel. Case in point: I accidently got a grease stain on the cover of this issue - something that would haunt me to the end of my days if it were any other Adventures story - but I forgot about it entirely until I placed it in front of me just now. I haven't reread this one more than once. Skip it. There's better Joker/Harley fare.

#19 - Argh. Now this is a hard one. Helena Bertinelli debuts in this tale, which pits Batman and Robin against a new vigilante out to end her late father's reign of terror. It's not a bad issue, and the art isn't quite as bad as it was last issue, but without a later Huntress story that offers up some reason for me to encourage you to read this, I can't. Aw heck, give it a look if you like. There's not much left in this series to enjoy anyway.

#20 - Harvey Bullock gets his first spotlight tale, partaking in a pool at the GCPDHQ to see how many criminals Batman and Robin can put out of buisness in one night. It's a nice read, with some medeocre art (couldn't anyone tell that the Kruse/Beatty pairing wasn't producing good results?), so if you're needing an Adventures fix, why not?

#21 - Last great issue of the series. Barbara's unfortunate father is kidnapped (for the second time by the Riddler, after having Joker and Two-Face already take a crack at him) and she decides to take his rescue into her own hands. I love this issue mostly for the riddles, which each make sense in a way once you've finished the read. No eight-hour pondering requried here. Joe Staton returns with some nice artwork, although I generally find his stuff to be very lacking. Definately pick it up, and keep an eye out for the first meeting between future "Gotham Girls" Batgirl and Renee Montoya.

#22 - This issue is such a waste of a good opportunity to add to the two-parter that started this series. Instead, it's mired down by more ugly artwork and an appearance by Grace Lamont that isn't really needed. She and Harv are a far cry from Nora and Victor Fries and issue #2 proved it. Plus, Two-Face speaks like a thug/gangsta. Skip it. Great cover though, and Harvey's therapist (called Dr Sloane here, despite having another name on the show) appears. You'll see her later on in...say it with me...Gotham Adventures.

#23 - Templeton takes a crack a nailing Killer Croc's uncertain character to a story involving...Summer Gleason. Seems when she isn't talking gossip on TV, she's getting hit on by Arkham inmates. And you thought being beautiful and annoying were the keys to success. Basically, more bad art..only this time, it's (duh duh duuuuuuuun!) Bo Hampton behind the madness. It's not dreadful, but skip it. Nobody likes Croc anyway, right?

#24 - From out of the past returns Kelly Puckett with this Ivy tale I mentionned to you in my TBA reviews. A native boy from the mysterious land of Acachiano accidently crosses her path and she's intrigued by his power to secrete poisons through his pores. Could it be underage love? Twice in one title? You'll almost beg for it once the "Men in Black"....yes...that's right...show up to involve the government in this tale that's neither entertaining nor pretty to look at. I find it sad that I have to "red X" (*cough*Teen Titans joke*cough*) the only issue to draw Ivy in a non-sexual way, because I don't think this character should be looked at as merely a sexual object. But that's really a whole other topic...This issue leads us into the series finale....which you'll really, really, really want to miss.

#25 - My apologies to Ty, but I'll never like this issue. It's not implausible that Ra's Al Ghul might have a UFO in his possession...but it's all so..."science fiction mystery theatre" that I just want to laugh at it and pretend it doesn't have Batman's name on it. But it does. And the Men in Black return...and Dick refers to them as such. Don't go near this one.

__________________________________________________________________

So there you have it. Only six poopey issues out of a twenty-five issue series. I personally didn't think too much of this series after issue #10, but I've come to find the good in each of the stories over the years. There's some nice work here, and you can tell that Templeton and his team were trying to build on the foundation laid in place by TBA. They didn't quite succeed, but over time, the future teams would come to, and thank god for that.

It's Mother's Day, so I going off this computer now, and promise to deliver my review of The Lost Years shortly. Hope this helped, and didn't offend too many people. G'night!

[Krypton_Knight]

Thanks again, Dis. I'd forgotten how good that two-parter with Ra's and Talia was.

I hated #5 too, but mostly because I think that the Riddler should be portrayed as a near match for the Joker, and that issue painted him in rather pathetic terms. But that's probably just me.

KK

[adoptedBatpuppy]

I would love to see them all be published in one set. But, I bet then the comics would be to expensive to buy like $100.00 and I don't think the team behind BA, SA, BB, TT, JLA, BGA, and any other comics that I missed would find it very profitable. I hope they will release TPB of the above mentioned titles.

[peterparker05]

Personally, and I believe this is doable as well, I would like to see the entire new Batman Adventures released as a trade. Think about it. It's only 17 issues. That could very easily be done. They could label it as like Batman's Last Stand or something like that as it is the last real appearence for the established Gotham City cast.