Batman: The Animated Series
Batman: The Animated Series
Friday Apr 26, 2024
Friday Apr 26, 2024
Introducing the Literary License Podcast, an insightful foray into the film industry with a special lens on Batman: The Animated Series. Join our host Keith Shogun and his esteemed guests Sean Steffen, Joe Randazzo, and Vicky Ray as they dissect iconic episodes from Batman's animated adventures. The episode begins with Sean's holiday recount and his cinematic journey with the AMC A-List, exploring an array of movies from Ghostbusters to Kong Godzilla.
Shifting gears towards horror film franchises, our hosts unpick Rob Zombie's Halloween, examining the impact of origin stories on characters' aura. The conversation eventually turns to the films "Late Night With The Devil" and "Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare," and how they present a perfect blend of thematic elements and action-packed sequences. The episode concludes with a lively chatter on Batman's loyal butler, Alfred Pennyworth, and his intriguing, secret-service past.
The hosts also engage in spirited discussions about the complexities of Wayne Industries and the potentially dangerous links it might share with global entities. The narrative delves into Batman's identity crisis during its transition from a children's series to a more adult-centric one, and how it resulted in a slight dip in the animation quality. However, the subjects diversify as the conversation moves towards Scooby-Doo, the philosophy of any publicity being good publicity, and the controversial movie, Human Centipede.
Enriched with movie reviews, trivia, plot analysis, and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, this episode promises to delight Batman aficionados and casual listeners alike. Join this enriching round-table discussion - a tribute to the iconic Batman series and its complex, multi-dimensional universe.
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Tuesday Mar 19, 2024
Tuesday Mar 19, 2024
For Batman enthusiasts and pop culture aficionados, join us in our retrospective journey into Batman- the animated series, other popular TV shows, and some cinematic favourites. Get to know our animated panel of experts – Sean Steffen, Joe Randazzo, Vicky Rae, and our host, Keith Chawgo, as they reveal their personal and professional experiences and their taste in movies. Delve into our extensive discussions on films, acting performances, and influential career positioning films. With lively debates, fascinating movie recommendations, and healthy doses of humour and sarcasm, this promising episode promises not just an interesting listen but a joyful ride through your favourite films and TV shows.
As we shift gears, our conversation lightens as we discuss the timeless beauty of black women and then dives into a shared appreciation for the film, "Bullet." From films recently screened in the local theatre to others including "Ring of Fire 2," "Psycho Cop," and the intriguing series "Twin Peaks," we discuss everything that enkindles our interest with enthusiasm and thorough analysis. Join us as we examine everything from thrilling chase scenes to emotional dialogues, painting a vivid cinematic world.
Analysing Popular TV Series: Twin Peaks, Dark Shadows, and Shogun.
Engage with us in a free-flowing discussion on reactions and thoughts on some of the trending TV series. The conversation evolves as we delve into performances, visual aesthetics, storyline intricacies, and the creative decisions driving narratives in series such as Twin Peaks, Dark Shadows, and the recently released series of Shogun. Navigate through this enlightening episode as we analyse characters, critique story strengths and weaknesses across different seasons, and conjecture how real-world events such as the Gulf War influenced certain shows.
Exploring Vintage Cinema Classics & Batman's Animated Series
In this episode, we pay homage to vintage cinema classics and Batman's animated series. Our discussion enlightens the contributions of William Castle, the American film director, and his timeless productions, including "Macabre," "House on Haunted Hill," and "The Tingler." We meticulously discuss the cinematic world of Batman's animated series, shedding light on key characters, intriguing plots involving The Clock King and Catwoman, and brilliant presentation techniques.
Universe of Superheroes: Batman, Catwoman, Nightwing, and Spider-Man
Dive into the thrilling universe of superheroes, exploring their influence on cinema and broader popular culture. Listen to our engaging debate on characters such as Batman, Catwoman, the Gotham-resident Nightwing, and Marvel's Spider-Man, dissecting their different portrayals and analysing their appeals. The episode offers an immersive experience into the captivating world of iconic superheroes and would appeal especially to DC and Marvel universe enthusiasts.
Dissecting DC and Marvel: Comic Books, Films, TV Shows, and Influence
In this captivating episode, get engrossed in our deliberation on DC and Marvel's comic books, films, television shows, and how they influence each other. Join the discussions about two of the largest comic book empires, their adaptations, their distinctive fan bases, and the future of comic-based cinematic experiences.
Filmmaking & the Obsession with Trends: Industry Concerns and Critiques
In this gripping and honest discussion, we delve into grave concerns within the film industry today. Discussing issues like the rise of trend-driven filmmaking, the overdose of sequels, the evolution of Marvel and Star Wars' universes along with critiques of popular TV series such as The Mandalorian and Andor, this episode discusses how an overdose of trends can harm the film and TV industry's creativity and quality.
Exploring Batman's Animated Series: From Iconic Episodes to Recent Releases
In this episode, we embark on a journey through Batman's animated series, reviewing memorable moments, assessing nostalgic classics like Clerks 3, and discussing less favorable moments from recent releases. Join us as we delve into the layers of these iconic episodes, sharing insightful reviews, critiques and unravel the intriguing stories within stories in the Batman universe.
A Critique of 'Baby Doll' from Batman: The Problem of Fading Stardom
In this episode, we discuss the surprisingly poignant episode 'Baby Doll' from Batman's classic series. Join our conversation as we explore the struggles of child stars when their limelight dims prematurely. A deep dive into 'Baby Doll' offers a remarkable blend of absurdity, poignancy, and the dark realities of child stardom.
Opening Credits– Adventures of Batman and Robin The - Animated Series by Shirley Walker. Copyright 2008 Warner Records. All rights reserved
Closing Credits: Baby Doll by Ari Abdul. Taken from the album Fallen Angel. Copyright 2022 Ari Abdul
Section Breaks: Music from the Batman: The Animated Series. Music by Shirley Walker. Copyright 2008 Warner Records
Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast.
All rights reserved. Used by Kind Permission.
All songs available through Amazon Music.
Saturday Dec 09, 2023
Saturday Dec 09, 2023
The Demon’s Quest Part 1
When Robin is mysteriously abducted from his college campus, Batman begins a fruitless search…until he is astounded by the sudden appearance in the Batcave of Ra’s Al Ghul. Ra’s quickly reveals that his daughter, Talia, has been abducted under circumstances similar to Robin’s, suggesting that the same persons are responsible. So begins an uneasy truce between the Batman and ‘The Demon’.
The Demon’s Quest Part 2
After learning the secret of Ra’s al Ghul’s immortality, Batman and Robin escape from a death trap and follow the only clue they have to stop Ra’s plans – the world ‘Orpheus’. After discovering the ‘Orpheus’ is Ra’s private satellite that will orbit over the Sahara, the duo travel to Demon’s desert stronghold. There, Batman learns that the satellite is actually a weapon which will explosively destroy all the Lazarus Pits simultaneously, throughout the world, changing the eco-system and returning Earth to is original natural state.
Fire From Olympus
Believing himself to be the reincarnation of the Greek God Zeus, mad shipping magnate Maxie Zeus hijacks an experimental electron cannon. Mounting the weapon atop his penthouse, Maxie plans to rain ‘lightning bolts’ down on the wicked mortals of Gotham City.
Read My Lips
Gotham Police are baffled by a series of crimes executed with clockwork-like precision. Batman investigates and discovers that the crimes are planned by a mob boss known as Scarface. He traces Scarface to his lair – a deserted mannequin warehouse – and discovers, to his astonishment, that the crime czar is a wooden dummy, manipulated by a mild-mannered man called the Ventriloquist mortals of Gotham City.
Opening Credits; Introduction (2.49); Episode One: Demon’s Quest Part 1 & 2 (24.06); Episode Two: Fire From Olympus (50.47); Episode Three: Read My Lips (1:01.32); Favourite Episode (1:18.07); I End Credits (1:30.32); Closing Credits (1:32.16)
Opening Credits– Donde Esta Santa Clause by Augie Roos. Taken from the album Maybe This Christmas Too. Copyright 1958 Ragtime Music
Closing Credits: Do You Hear What I Hear/You Really Got Me by Bobby Lloyd and the Skeltons. Taken from the album A Christmas Party at Eddie G. Copyright 1996. Strikin’ It Rich Records.
Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast.
All rights reserved. Used by Kind Permission.
All songs available through Amazon Music.
Saturday Nov 11, 2023
Saturday Nov 11, 2023
Shadow of the Bat Part 1
When Commissioner Gordon is framed for taking bribes from Rupert Thorne, his daughter Barbara pleads with Batman to show up at a rally being put on in the commissioner’s behalf. But when Batman disappears after finding the person behind the frame-up. Barbara takes matters into her own hands as Batgirl.
Shadow of the Bat Part 2
Batman has been captured by Two-Face and his gang, leaving Robin to do the investigating behind Commissioner Gordan’s framing. However, Robin will find an unusual partner in Batgirl, who is also on the path to clear her father’s name and the information she has uncovered about acting commissioner Gil Mason will help them on their quest.
Blind As A Bat
In the course of stealing a high-tech military aircraft called the Raven, the Penguin injures Bruce Wayne, causing temporary blindness. But Batman refuses to sit back while Penguin holds the city hostage, and dons and experimental headset that will allow him to “see” while the battery holds out.
In an intense sky battle that ends with a crash landing, Batman manages to foil the Penquin’s scheme – but his faltering gear leaves him blind once more, attempting to hear his way through a violent confrontation with a muscle-bound good and ultimately the fowl fiend himself.
His Silcone Soul
When a Batman impersonator appears in Gotham City, the real Batman deduces that Karl Rossum is somehow involved and confronts the inventor. The other Batman, a duplicate, then shows up and a battle between the two takes place. After the duplicate Batman escapes, it begins its campaign to recreate H.A.R.D.A.C’s goals of a robotic society.
Opening Credits; Introduction (.56); Shadow of the Bat Part 1 & 2 (41.51); Blind As A Bat (55.54); His Silicon Soul (1:14.49); Favourite Episode (1:31.05); End Credits (1:33.14); Closing Credits (1:35.11)
Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – Copyright . All rights reserved
Closing Credits: She’s A Lady by Tom Jones. Taken from the album Tom Jones Sings She’s A Lady. Copyright 1971 Decca Records/Parrot Records
Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast.
All rights reserved. Used by Kind Permission.
All songs available through Amazon Music.
Sunday Oct 15, 2023
Sunday Oct 15, 2023
Paging The Crime Doctor
Dr Matthew Thorne, a formerly respectable surgeon who lost his license after sheltering his brother Rupert Thorne from the police and once a friend of Dr Thomas Wayne and Leslie Thompkins, is reduced to acting as a mob doctor. When Rupert is critically injured, his brother coerces Leslie to assist with the surgery. But the recovering mob boss wants no witnesses, and Mathew is forced to decide where his real loyalties lie.
Zatanna
Zatanna was the daughter of Zatara, an excellent magician who taught Bruce Wayne, under the name of “John Smith”, everything he knows about escape artistry and “magic”. Zatara was a world renowned magician and was considered quite possibly the best in his field. He also passed on his teachings to his only child, a daughter named Zatanna. Zatanna gained her talent from her father and became an excellent magician herself.
She also had a romantic relationship with Bruce, despite never knowing his real name. Zatanna always had close ties with Bruce Wayne, although Bruce was cautious of this relationship by never giving her his real name.
Years later in a show in Gotham City, she made the contents of the Gotham Mint disappear to show up magic debunker Montaque Kane. Unfortunately for her, Kane had not only seen through her trick, but was a thief, and stole the money while framing her for the crime. She was freed from custody and assisted Batman in bringing Kane to justice.
After their collaboration with Batman, she eventually recognised him as her old friend from long ago. she then told Batman that Zatara, who had passed away by this stage would have been proud of him, putting his arts to use in fighting crime.
The Mechanic
Thanks to a freak accident during a high-speed chase, the Batmobile is virtually demolished. After Batman takes the car to his personal mechanic, Earl Cooper, the Penguin makes his move and tampers with the Batmobile, putting it under his control.
Harley and Ivy
After a failed heist, a frustrated Joker boots Harley Quinn from his gang and to prove her worth to the Clown Prince of Crime, Harley goes solo on her own crimes. This path eventually leads her to form a partnership with fellow criminal Poison Ivy. The success of Harley and Ivy as the new “Queens of Crime” doesn’t go unnoticed by The Joker, or Batman, both of whom set out to stop the amazing duo for their own personal reasons, Little do they know, no man can stop Harley and Ivy.
Opening Credits; Introduction (.56); Episode One: Paging the Crime Doctor (36.20); Episode Two: Zatana (45.50); Episode Three: The Mechanic (1:04.50); Episode Four: Harley and Ivy (1:13.52); Favourite Episode: (1:52.53); End Credits (1:55.30); Closing Credits (1:56.46)
Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – Copyright . All rights reserved
Closing Credits: Sisters Are Doin’ It For Themselves by Aretha Franklin and The Eurythmics. Taken from the album Be Yourself Tonight by The Eurythmics. Copyright 1985 RCA Records.
Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast.
All rights reserved. Used by Kind Permission.
All songs available through Amazon Music.
Saturday Sep 09, 2023
Saturday Sep 09, 2023
I Am The Knight
Batman falls into the depths of depression after Commissioner Gordon is shot by the Jazzman during a botched raid. Batman was meant to be present but was delayed by thugs while paying his annual visit to the site of his parents' murder. With Gordon hospitalized and near death, the Dark Knight becomes consumed by self-doubt.
Only when the Jazzman escapes custody and attempts to murder Gordon does Batman snap out of his funk. His spirit is further renewed when he encounters a young man, he'd previously given up hope on, now on the road to reform and grateful for Batman's intervention.
Off Balance
While following Count Vertigo's trail, Batman encounters comes across a mysterious woman called Talia, who was sent by her father to prevent the capture of a sonic drill that the Count stole from Wayne Enterprises. On their quest to stop Vertigo, Talia learns Batman's identity and they are forced to work together in order to fight Vertigo's effects, but the more they collaborate, the more doubts Batman has about Talia's loyalties.
The Man Who Killed Batman
While a third-rate mob stumble-bum Sidney Debris was acting as look-out for drug runners, Batman surprised him on a warehouse roof. The two struggled, and Sid’s bumbling caused Batman to pitch off the roof and into a shed of explosive gas. After the ensuing fire, the only thing found was Batman’s cape and cowl. It seemed Sidney had done the impossible and become the man who killed Batman.
Mudslide
Clayface is falling apart – literally. His clay like body is virtually disintegrating. Fortunately, Stella Bates, a woman scientist he knew from his movie star days, tries to stabilise Matt’s decaying form by using a rare isotope stolen form Wayne Enterprises – the irony being that Bruce Wayne would gladly help if given the chance. But Clayface is too hateful to yield, and winds up falling into the sea, where he dissolves into nothingness.
Opening Credits; Introduction (.56); Episode One: I Am The Night (49.49); Episode Two: Off Balance (57.29 ); Episode Three: The Man Who Killed Batman (1:09.54); Episode Four: Mudslide (1:18.28); Favourite and Least Favourite Character (1:37.30); Favourite Episode (1:49.17); End Credits (1:51.40); Closing Credits (1:52.50)
Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – Copyright . All rights reserved
Closing Credits: Off Balance by Victor Ray. Taken from the album Off-Balance. Copyright 2023 ZOZO records.
Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast.
All rights reserved. Used by Kind Permission.
All songs available through Amazon Music.
Saturday Aug 12, 2023
Saturday Aug 12, 2023
Terror in the Sky
When a giant-sized bat ransacks Gotham harbor, Batman suspects that Dr. Kirk Langstrom is up to his old tricks, taking the Man-Bat formula again. Batman isn't the only one. Kirk's wife, Francine, is so distrustful of her husband that she decides to leave him. After further investigation, Batman discovers that this Man-Bat is not Kirk, but someone else, and thus he shames Francine's father into permanently destroying the formula.
Almost Got'im
The Joker, Killer Croc, the Penguin, Two-Face, and Poison Ivy all meet at a poker table, each telling a tale of times when they almost defeated Batman. At the same time, Harley Quinn is about to kill Catwoman after she rescued Batman from the Joker's electric chair, and Batman must save her.
Birds of a Feather
Veronica Vreeland is looking for a way to create a splash with her next party, and arrives at the idea of having a former criminal in attendance — especially if there is one whose manners would create a stir. The Penguin, who has recently reformed, fits the bill perfectly. In the process of convincing the Penguin to come to her party, Veronica finds she likes the corpulent little guy. For his part, the Penguin begins to fall in love with her, until he overhears that he is merely being used.
What is Reality?
Seeking to prove once and for all that his is the superior mind, the Riddler lures Batman into a riddle-solving contest inside the virtual reality of a computer game in order to save Commissioner Gordon's life. In the course of solving the riddles and escaping the Riddler's traps, Batman learns that he is able to manipulate the virtual reality landscape much like the Riddler does.
Opening Credits; Introduction (1.24); Episode One: Terror In The Skies (57.04); Episode Two: Almost Got ‘Im (1:04.30); Episode Three: Birds of a Feather (1:12.19); Episode Four: What is Reality? (1:20.15); Favourite Episode (1:28.10); Favourite Character (1:36.40); Same Bat Time, Same Bat Channel (1:53.01); Closing Credits (1:53.50)
Opening Credits– Batman Animated Theme by Danny Elfman. Copyright 1992 Warner Music
Closing Credits: Alone Pt II by Alan Walker & Ava Max. Taken from the album World of Walker. Copyright 2019 MER/Sony Records.
Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast.
All rights reserved. Used with Kind Permission.
All songs available through Amazon Music.
Sunday Jul 23, 2023
Sunday Jul 23, 2023
Joker’s Wild
Cameron Kaiser builds a casino hotel modeled after the Joker, called "The Joker's Wild". The Joker sees this on the news and, enraged, escapes from Arkham again, with one thought on his mind: destroying the casino, unaware that this is exactly what Kaiser wants him to do as part of an insurance claim.
Tyger Tyger
Selina Kyle is kidnapped by the villainous genetic engineer Dr. Emile Dorian (a former comrade of Man-Bat) and becomes his latest experiment to provide his man-cat hybrid named Tygrus with a mate. Batman learns of this and comes to the island to rescue Selina. He is captured and forced into a deadly game of cat-and-flying mouse as Tygrus hunts Batman through the island's jungles.
Moon of the Wolf
Batman investigates the appearance of a werewolf-like creature in Gotham, not realizing that the monster happens to be one of Bruce Wayne's associates — Anthony Romulus, ex-Olympic champion. Behind the scheme is twisted chemist Professor Milo.
Day of the Samuri
Kyodai Ken kidnaps Kairi Tanaga, star pupil of Yoru Sensei, the martial arts instructor who taught both Kyodai and Bruce. The ninja's ransom for her is a scroll that teaches the location of the fabled Death Touch.
Opening Credits; Introduction (1.29); Episode One Joker’s Wild (52.33); Episode Two: Tyger Tyger (1:04.14); Episode Three: Moon of the Wolf (1:13.42); Episode Four: Day of the Samuri (1:40.41); Favourite Character (1:50.39); Favourite Episode (1:56.01); Same Bat Time, Same Bat Channel (2:07.09); Closing Credits (2:08.37)
Opening Credits– Batman Animated Theme by Danny Elfman. Copyright 1992 Warner Music
Closing Credits: Everybody Wants To Be A Cat by The Sketchy Leg Big Band. Copyright 2019 The Sketchy Leg Big Band. (2775) The Stretchy Legs Big Band - Everybody Wants To Be A Cat (from The Aristocats) - YouTube
Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast.
All rights reserved. Used with Kind Permission.
All songs available through Amazon Music.
Sunday Jun 11, 2023
Sunday Jun 11, 2023
The Strange Secret of Bruce Wayne
After a prominent judge is injured during a struggle with some thugs demanding money from her in exchange for a strange tape, Bruce Wayne decides to take a trip to Yucca Springs, a resort where the judge had vacationed, and consult Dr. Hugo Strange, a psychiatrist. Bruce soon learns that Strange has invented a machine that extracts people's darkest secrets from their minds and transfers them to videotape — and now Strange has proof of Bruce's secret identity as Batman, and plans to auction it to three of Gotham's prominent crime bosses.
Heart of Steel Part 1
Several robberies take place at major companies, including Wayne Enterprises, and Bruce Wayne, as Batman, discovers the thief to be a mechanical briefcase. Bruce meets with his old friend, Karl Rossum, an expert in robotics who lost his daughter to a vehicle accident years ago. He also meets Rossum's assistant, Randa Duane, and Rossum's ultimate creation: a prototype A.I. known as Holographic Analytical Reciprocating Digital Computer (H.A.R.D.A.C.) Bruce invites Duane to dinner, and around the same time, certain civilians start acting strangely. Most surprising is when Duane unexpectedly leaves Wayne Manor while Bruce is on the phone, and the entire Batcave turns on Batman.
Heart of Steel Part 2
Batman manages to free himself from the Batcave's clutches, and brings it back under his control, although he fails to track Duane down. Barbara Gordon approaches Batman to inform him of her father's sudden change in behavior. A brutal fight between Batman and Detective Bullock ensues, during which Batman pushes Bullock onto the Bat Signal, and reveals him to actually be an android, meaning that the real Bullock and James Gordon have gone missing, and Batman knows who the culprit is: H.A.R.D.A.C. Batman must stop the evil supercomputer before it is too late.
If You’re So Smart, Why Aren’t You Rich
Edward Nygma creates the video game The Riddle of the Minotaur for the company Competitron, but is fired by his superior Daniel Mockridge, who wants the profits for himself. Nygma vows revenge, and takes up the mantle of the Riddler two years later. While Batman sympathizes with Nygma, he and Robin find themselves forced to stop him before he kills Mockridge in a life-sized version of the Minotaur maze. Despite successfully rescuing Mockridge, who complete a deal to move his company to Gotham, the incident leaves him in a permanent PTSD - type all-consuming fear of Nygma's return for revenge.
Opening Credits; Introduction (1.28); Episode One: The Strange Case of Bruce Wayne (32.30); Episode Two and Three: Heart of Steel Part 1 &2 (47.10); Episode Four: If You Are So Smart; Why Aren’t You Rich (1:14.48); Favourite Episode (1:58.53); Favourite Character (2:03.03);Same Bat Time, Same Bat Channel (2:03.06); Closing Credits (2:03.46)
Opening Credits– Batman Animated Theme by Danny Elfman. Copyright 1992 Warner Music
Closing Credits: Question Me An Answer by Bobby Van. Taken from the album The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack Lost Horizon. Copyright 1997 Razor & Tie Records.
Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast.
All rights reserved. Used with Kind Permission.
All songs available through Amazon Music.
Sunday May 21, 2023
Sunday May 21, 2023
BATMAN: The Animated Series
Robin’s Reckoning Part 1
During a fight with some gangsters at a construction yard, Batman and Robin learn the name of their boss: Billy Marin. While Robin looks forward to going up against Marin, Batman becomes distant, and after a falling out at the Batcave, Batman doesn't allow Robin to accompany him on the search for Marin. Robin investigates on the Batcomputer, and soon realizes that Billy Marin is not the boss' real name. Rather, it is an alias of Tony Zucco, the man who killed his parents (which Batman already knew, but chose not to tell Robin).
Robin’s Reckoning Part 2
Angered by Batman's deceit, Robin sets out to find Tony Zucco on his own, all the while plagued by the memories of his parents' death and how Bruce took him in as his own son. Eventually, Batman manages to find Zucco at an old amusement park, but breaks his leg during the fight. Robin finally arrives and prepares to kill Zucco in revenge.
Night of the Ninja
A mysterious ninja is robbing Wayne Enterprises subsidiaries, and Batman discovers that the ninja is actually his equal in combat. A grudge against Bruce Wayne and skills to match him can only mean one person: Kyodai Ken, an old rival of Wayne's teacher from his days in Japan, and who was thrown out of the dojo after attempting to rob it, only to be stopped by Wayne. Ken, it turns out, wants revenge.
Cat Scratch Fever
Batman must stop Roland Daggett's plan to release a viral plague designed by Professor Milo into Gotham by way of its stray cat population. The case gains new urgency when Catwoman becomes infected with the virus during her search for her missing cat, Isis. Now, Batman must find an antidote to save the woman who loves him most.
Opening Credits; Introduction (1.29); Episode One Robin’s Reckoning Part 1 & 2 (22.52); Episode Two: Night of the Ninja (42.33); Episode Three: Cat Scratch Fever (53.20); Favourite Character (1:06.58); Favourite Episode (1;13.41);Same Bat Time, Same Bat Channel (1:20.08); Closing Credits (1:21.00)
Opening Credits– Batman Animated Theme by Danny Elfman. Copyright 1992 Warner Music
Closing Credits: Boy Wonder, I Love You by Burt Ward and Frank Zappa. Copyright 1966 MGM Records.
Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast.
All rights reserved. Used with Kind Permission.
All songs available through Amazon Music.
Monday May 01, 2023
Monday May 01, 2023
Batman: The Animated Series
Eternal Youth
Several rich industrialists are invited to the Eternal Youth Health Spa, and that's where they are last seen before disappearing. The only connection: they had something to do with the death of plants. Bruce Wayne also receives an invitation (although it was one of his greedy directors who nearly made the deal to destroy a rainforest before Bruce forced him to shut the operation down), but Alfred and his "lady friend", Maggie, go in his place. When they do not return, Batman is forced to investigate, discovering that the spa is run by Poison Ivy, and that she has been using a formula to turn the industrialists into humanoid trees, including Alfred and Maggie
Perchance of a Dream
Bruce Wayne wakes up one morning to find that his life is completely upside-down: his parents are alive, the Batcave does not exist, Alfred does not remember Robin, and he is engaged to Selina Kyle. However, it doesn't mean that Batman isn't still around, and Bruce starts to wonder what has happened, especially after seeing the characteristics of a dream (such as book and newspaper prints not making sense) inside this new life.
The Cape and the Cowl Conspiracy
Baron Jozek, furious at Batman for humiliating him at a dinner party (over Jozek's underworld connections), hires Josiah Wormwood, a master in setting traps for his victims, to hunt down Batman and bring back the hero's cape and cowl.
The Laughing Fish
Joker creates a toxin that affects only fish, mutating them into Joker fish. Then, he targets innocent men who refuse to copyright his Joker fish. The Joker also captures Harvey Bullock, and Batman must rescue him and foil the Clown Prince of Crime's scheme.
Opening Credits; Introduction (1.27); Episode One On Eternal Youth (42.52); Episode Two: Perchance of a Dream (59.02); Episode Three: The Cape and Cowl Conspiracy (1:11.12); Episode Four: The Laughing Fish (1:26.14); Favourite Episode and Least Episode (1:38.08); Favourite and Least Favourite Character (1:43.13); Same Bat Time, Same Bat Channel (1:48.18); Closing Credits (1:49.32)
Opening Credits– Batman Animated Theme by Danny Elfman. Copyright 1992 Warner Music
Closing Credits: Brave by Sara Bareilles. Taken from the album – The Blessed Unrest. Copyright 2013 Epic Records
Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast.
All rights reserved. Used with Kind Permission.
All songs available through Amazon Music.
Thursday Mar 16, 2023
Thursday Mar 16, 2023
The Clock King
After his company goes bankrupt, Temple Fugate becomes the Clock King. Fugate sets out to seek his revenge against the man whom he blames for his misfortunes: Mayor Hamilton Hill. Fugate kidnaps Hill, intending to do away with him to accomplish his revenge. Batman must stop Fugate from carrying out his revenge and save the mayor's life.
Appointment in Crime Alley
With the help of arsonists, Roland Daggett plans to destroy Crime Alley and use the land to expand his business empire. Batman must stop Daggett's men and also save a captured Leslie Thompkins (Who helped a young Bruce Wayne cope with the loss of his parents).
Mad As A Hatter
Miserable Wayne Industries scientist Jervis Tetch is unable to pursue the girl he loves, Alice the secretary. When she splits up from her boyfriend, he makes an advance and develops a fast friendship with her, until her boyfriend reconciles with her and proposes to her. Enraged, Tetch decides to take matters into his own hands, and dons the mantle of the Mad Hatter, using his mind-control devices to force those who have wronged him all his life to become his mindless slaves.
Dreams in Darkness
Batman is incarcerated in Arkham Asylum after being exposed to the Scarecrow's fear-inducing gas. Batman knows that the Scarecrow has escaped for the second time and is planning to poison Gotham's water supply with the same fear-inducing gas, and he must bring himself to break the law and escape from Arkham before the Scarecrow brings Gotham to its knees.
Opening Credits; Introduction (1.29); Episode One: The Clock King (26.33); Episode Two: Appointment in Crime Alley (35.33); Episode Three: Mad As A Hatter (45.19); Episode Four: Dreams in Darkness (56.19); Amazing Design Advertisement (1:04.09); Favourite Episode (1:05.21); Favourite Character (1:11.31);Same Bat Time, Same Bat Channel (1:21.00); Closing Credits (1:22.47)
Opening Credits– Batman Animated Theme by Danny Elfman. Copyright 1992 Warner Music
Closing Credits: Play With Fire (Featuring Yacht Money) by Sam Tinnesz. Taken from the album Babel. Copyright 2017 Warner’s Music Group
Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast.
All rights reserved. Used with Kind Permission.
All songs available through Amazon Music.
Wednesday Feb 15, 2023
Wednesday Feb 15, 2023
Batman: The Animated Series
Feat of Clay – Part 1
Bruce Wayne is framed for the attempted murder of Lucius Fox. The real perpetrator is an actor and master of disguise named Matt Hagen, who was disfigured in a car accident years ago. In order to keep his fame, he secretly started working for Roland Daggett, who provides him with a monthly supply of an addictive face cream known as Renuyu (a pun on "Renew You") that can temporarily reshape his face back to normal, and who wants to take Wayne Enterprises over for marketing expansion. For botching the murder due to Batman's interference, Hagen's supply is cut off, and when he breaks into Daggett's lab for more Renuyu, he pays the price dearly when Daggett's men drench his face in the formula and force him to swallow liters of it to avoid drowning. Meanwhile, Bruce Wayne is arrested and taken into custody, charged with the assault on Fox.
Feat of Clay – Part 2
Bruce Wayne is released from prison on bail. Hagen, as it turns out, survived the murder attempt on him, but at a high cost: the formula entered his body and soaked every single one of his cells, turning him into a shape-shifting mutant. With his newfound powers, Hagen, now calling himself Clayface, decides to take his revenge on Daggett and his men, and Batman must bring Daggett to justice and stop Clayface before innocent people are hurt.
Vendetta
Detective Bullock is arrested for kidnapping. Batman, who dislikes Bullock but nevertheless believes him to be a good man, investigates, and discovers the identity of the real criminal: Killer Croc, who harbors a vendetta against Bullock for capturing him once. Batman must clear Bullock's name before it is too late.
Fear of Victory
The Scarecrow invents a fear chemical that is activated by adrenaline. Then, he uses it to affect the outcome of athletic events. Whenever a single person becomes agitated, the fear chemical kicks in, turning his excitement to fear. The Scarecrow bets against the sports stars' teams as part of his criminal scheme to scare up some quick cash, and Batman and Robin must foil his plot.
Opening Credits; Introduction (1.29); Episode One & Two: Feat of Clay Part 1 & 2 (30.23); Episode Three: Vendetta (50.50); Episode Four: Fear of Victory (1:03.05); Amazing Design Advertisement (1:14.57); Favourite Character and Least Favourite Character and Favourite Episode (1:16.09);Same Bat Time, Same Bat Channel (1:33.15); Closing Credits (1:34.24)
Opening Credits– Batman Animated Theme by Danny Elfman. Copyright 1992 Warner Music
Closing Credits: The Fear by Lily Allen. Taken from the album It Not Me, It’s You. Copyright 2007 Regal Records
Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast.
All rights reserved. Used with Kind Permission.
All songs available through Amazon Music.
Sunday Jan 15, 2023
Sunday Jan 15, 2023
Batman: The Animated Series
See No Evil
Lloyd "Eddie" Ventrix is on the verge of losing his daughter, Kimberly (Elisabeth Moss), to his ex-wife, Helen, due to his past as a con artist. Determined not to lose Kimberly, Ventrix dons a suit, stolen from where he used to work while on parole, which grants the user invisibility but also becomes highly toxic and drives him insane. He poses as Kimberly's imaginary friend, Mojo, and planning to abduct her from her mother, while in a crime spree as an invisible robber. Batman must solve the mystery crimes and stop Ventrix, despite the fact that he cannot even see him.
Beware the Gray Ghost
Simon Trent, an actor best known for his past role as "The Gray Ghost", is on the verge of bankruptcy thanks to his declining career. To save himself, he sells off all of his Gray Ghost merchandise. Immediately afterwards, a series of bombings related to the old show begin to occur. Batman, having himself been inspired partly by the show to become the crimefighter he now is, goes to Trent for help, and they team up to put an end to the crimes, and also revive Trent's career.
Prophecy of Doom
Batman investigates a cult, called the Brotherhood, founded by the "mystic" Nostromos, after hearing about a number of stories from his colleagues about his ability to predict the future. Batman finds out that Nostromos is actually a con artist who was rigging near-fatal accidents to gain the confidence of Gotham's upper class citizens, and he must expose this ruse before it is too late.
Joker’s Favor
After a man named Charlie Collins curses at the Joker on the road for offensive driving, the Clown Prince of Crime corners him and intimidates him into doing him a "small favor". Two years pass, and the Joker finally decides how to use Charlie: to sneak a bomb into the Peregrinator's Club, where Commissioner Gordon is to give a speech at an award ceremony. Charlie, who merely has to open the door, is sceptical at first, but for the sake of his family, he reluctantly decides to obey.
We are joined by Mark Krawczyk, Host of The Spoiler Room podcast. You can follow his show or himself by going to the following websites:
https://www.specialmarkproductions.com
https://anchor.fm/spoilerroompodcast
https://twitter.com/SpecialMarkPro
https://www.instagram.com/SpecialMarkProd
https://www.tiktok.com/@specialmarkproductions
Opening Credits; Introduction (1.29); Amazing Design Advertisement (32.25); Episode One See No Evil (33.37); Episode Two: Beware the Grey Ghost (47.24); Episode Three: Prophecy of Doom (1:20.20); Episode Four: Joker’s Favor (1:45.57); Favourite and Least Favourite Character (2:34.15);Same Bat Time, Same Bat Channel (2:51.43); Closing Credits (2:54.37)
Opening Credits– Batman Animated Theme by Danny Elfman. Copyright 1992 Warner Music
Closing Credits: My Hero by The Foo Fighters. Taken from the album The Color and The Shape. Copyright 1997 Roswell – Capitol Records.
Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast.
All rights reserved. Used with Kind Permission.
All songs available through Amazon Music.
Saturday Dec 10, 2022
Saturday Dec 10, 2022
Batman: The Animated Series – I Got Batman In My Basement/Heart of Ice/Cat and the Claw Part 1 & 2
I’ve Got Batman In My Basement
During a fight with Batman over a stolen Fabergé egg, the Penguin incapacitates Batman with poison gas. The Dark Knight is rescued by a teenage amateur detective named Sherman Grant and his friend Roberta, who hide Batman in Sherman's basement long enough for him to recover before the Penguin finds them.
Heart of Ice
Bitter scientist Victor Fries, as Mr. Freeze, attacks several divisions of GothCorp, each time stealing a piece for a secret weapon he intends to build. Batman investigates the connections, and discovers that the start of Freeze's vendetta against GothCorp was a bitter falling out between Fries and GothCorp's CEO, Ferris Boyle (Mark Hamill), during which Boyle almost killed Fries (mutating him into Freeze) and presumably killed Fries' terminally ill wife, Nora. Batman must find a way to bring Boyle to justice before Freeze carries out his revenge. This episode won the 1993 daytime Emmy for most Outstanding Script.
The Cat and the Claw Part 1
Batman encounters a new cat burglar calling herself Catwoman, and around the same time, meets a woman named Selina Kyle (as Bruce Wayne), to whom he is visibly attracted. When Selina runs into trouble with a terrorist group known as The Red Claw, who want the mountain lion sanctuary she was trying to protect, she decides to take matters into her own hands and investigate.
The Cat and the Claw Part 2
The leader of the Red Claw group (known herself only as Red Claw) attacks a military train and steals a viral plague, which she intends to release in Gotham if she isn't paid a ransom, and Batman and Catwoman must put aside their differences and work together to stop Red Claw before it is too late.
Opening Credits; Introduction (1.30); Amazing Design Advertisement (1:03.41)I Got Batman In My Basement (1:04.53); Heart of Ice (1:28.26); The Cat And The Claw Part 1 (2:02.09); The Cat and The Claw Part 2 (2:25.02); Favourite Episode (3:00.06); Favourite Character (3:03.19);Same Bat Time, Same Bat Channel (3:06.47); Closing Credits (3:08.13)
Opening Credits– Batman Animated Theme by Danny Elfman. Copyright 1992 Warner Music
Closing Credits: God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman by Barenaked Ladies with Sarah McLaughlin. Taken from the album Barenaked For The Holiday. Copyright 2004 Concord Vangard Records.
Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast.
All rights reserved.
Used with Kind Permission.
All songs available through Amazon Music.
Saturday Nov 12, 2022
Saturday Nov 12, 2022
Be A Clown
Mayor Hamilton Hill's miserable son, Jordan, becomes even sadder when his father uses his birthday party as a political gathering rather than a normal celebration, and ends up stowing away in the truck of the party clown hired by Hill for the party, whom he doesn't know is actually the Joker in disguise. It is now up to Batman, whom Mayor Hill distrusts, to rescue the boy before it is too late.
Two Face Part 1
Mobster Rupert Thorne attempts to use Harvey Dent's secret split personality to blackmail him. But when Dent meets with Thorne at a chemical plant, "Big Bad Harv" takes over, and the resulting confrontation leads to an explosion that horribly scars half of Dent's face and his entire body.
Two Face Part 2
Harvey Dent, now calling himself Two-Face, resurfaces and starts robbing Rupert Thorne's illegal businesses, preparing for a final confrontation with the crime boss, and Batman must stop his former friend before he and Thorne kill each other.
It’s Never Too Late
A mob war between crime bosses Rupert Thorne and Arnold Stromwell is nearing its end, and comes to a climax when Stromwell is set up to be killed in an exploding restaurant by Thorne. Batman saves him at the last moment, and aided by Stromwell's brother (now a priest who lost his leg years before, an accident for which Stromwell carries a secret guilt), tries to persuade him to give up his life of crime and help the police bring Thorne down by testifying against him.
Opening Credits; Introduction (1.29); Amazing Design Advertisement (45.31); Episode One: Be A Clown (46.42); Episode Two: Two-Face Part 1 (1:02.15); Episode Three: Two-Face Part 2 (1:23.59); Episode Four: It’s Never Too Late (1:48.34); Favourite Character (2:15.33); Favourite Episode (2:30.03); Same Bat Time, Same Bat Channel (2:34.11); Closing Credits (2:35.46)
Opening Credits– Batman Animated Theme by Danny Elfman. Copyright 1992 Warner Music
Closing Credits: It’s Never Too Late by Kylie Minogue. Taken from the album Enjoy Yourself. Copyright 1989 PWL Records
Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast.
Incidental Music: Batman: The Animated Series by Shirley Walker. Copyright 1995 Warner Music International.
All rights reserved. Used with Kind Permission.
All songs available through Amazon Music.
Saturday Oct 15, 2022
Saturday Oct 15, 2022
Pretty Poison
When District Attorney Harvey Dent collapses after a meal with his finance Pamela Isley and friend Bruce Wayne, doctors discover that he has been poisoned and it is up to Batman to find the culprit and find the antidote before time runs out.
The Underdwellers
Batman traces a series of bizarre robberies on the streets of Gotham back to a band of homeless children, who have been raised to do the bidding of their master, the Sewer King.
P.O.V.
A botched police operation results in the suspension of those involved: Officer Wilkes, Officer Montoya, and Detective Bullock. Confronted by their superiors, each of them is forced to tell their tale of what happened that night.
The Forgotten
While investigating the disappearances of Gotham's homeless in an undercover disguise, Bruce Wayne is kidnapped and imprisoned in a chain gang mining camp, suffering from amnesia. Alfred must thus track him down, help him escape, and free the rest of the prisoners.
Opening Credits; Introduction 1.30(); Episode One: Pretty Poison (23.35); Episode Two: The Underdwellers (39.49); Episode Three: P.O.V. (1:04.11); Episode Four: The Forgotten (1:19.57); Amazing Designs Advertisement (1:45.47); Favourite Episode (1:46.59); Favourite and Least Favourite Character (1:50.07); Same Bat Time, Same Bat Channel (2:01.53); Closing Credits (2:03.33)
Opening Credits– Batman Animated Theme by Danny Elfman. Copyright 1992 Warner Music
Closing Credits: A Kiss Is A Terrible Thing To Waste by Meatloaf and Bonnie Tyler. Taken from the album The Very Best of Meatloaf. Copyright: 1998 Epic Records.
Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast.
All rights reserved. Used with Kind Permission.
All songs available through Amazon Music.
Saturday Sep 10, 2022
Saturday Sep 10, 2022
Batman: The Animated Series:
Episodes 1 – 4
On Leather Wings - A mysterious bat like creatures starts terrorising Gotham City and the Caped Crusader must solve the mystery to clear his name.
Christmas With The Joker - After escaping Arkham Asylum on Christmas Eve, he terrorises Gotham by taking on Batman and Robin to find his hidden studio and free the hostages which include Commissioner Gordon, Detective Bullock and Summer Gleason.
Nothing To Fear - Batman encounters the Scarecrow and attempts to foil his scheme of burning down Gotham University but in the process is exposed to Scarecrow’s fear gas and is forced to face his guilt and the death of his parents.
The Last Laugh - The Joker infects Gotham with laughing gas but when Alfred is infected, Batman has added incentive to find an antidote before all of Gotham and Alfred die with a smile.
We are joined by Sean Steffen.
Opening Credits; Introduction (1.29); Episode One: On Leather Wings (32.42); Episode Two: Christmas With the Joker (1:03.27); Episode Three: Nothing To Fear (1:27.00); Episode Four: The Last Laugh (1:43.21); Amazing Design Advertisement (2:07.40); Favourite Episode (2:08.51); Favourite Character (2:12.26); Same Bat Time, Same Bat Channel (2:19.03); Closing Credits (2:20.37)
Opening Credits– Batman Animated Theme by Danny Elfman. Taken from Batman The Animated Series 0 Copyright 1992 Warner Music
Incidental Music – Batman Drives to Gotham/14 Seconds Opening/Joker Jingle Bells/Nothing To Fear/Alfred Loses It/Griffin Theme/Question Mark Motif – By Shirley Walker, Taken from Batman: The Animated Series Soundtrack album. Copyright 1992 Warner Music
Closing Credits – Nothing To Fear (But Fear Itself) – by Oingo Boingo taken from the album Nothing to Fear. Copyright 1982 – IRS/A&M records.
Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast.
All rights reserved.
Used with Kind Permission.
All songs available through Amazon Music.