Adam West's incarnation of Batman has been a staple of nostalgia for over 50 years. The campy, often ridiculous plots and props, the scenery-chewing guest stars, and some good old superhero fight scenes complete with sound effects popping up on the screen. West himself always had a wonderful charisma, and this impact has been seen throughout his career. His cameos and voiceover roles frequently pay homage to this iconic role, usually in the form of parody. It's no surprise that fans would rejoice when a direct to video animated feature was announced, in which Adam West and Burt Ward were set to reprise their 1966 roles as Batman and Robin.
The nostalgia trip begins as soon as the credits role, with an instrumental variation of the TV theme music, while the Dynamic Duo swing into action through Golden and Silver Age comic covers. The plot itself at first fits right at home in the old show. It could also be seen as a sequel to the theatrical movie, as it features the same four villains: Joker, Penguin, Riddler, and Catwoman (reprised by Julie Newmar). They steal a duplication ray from some scientists, and manage to subdue our heroes after their first fight. Catwoman drugs Batman in hopes it will turn him over to their side, but at first it appears not to work, so the villains leave him and Robin to their fate in an elaborate deathtrap. Of course they escape, and continue on the trail. And every time you think the movie's over, it just keeps going.
Setting aside potential spoilers, this movie is a treat from start to finish. The look and atmosphere of the 1960s is recreated beautifully, from stately Wayne Manor, to the Batcave, to the Batmobile, and most of the character models themselves. Some note that the animation looks a little stiff compared to other modern animated features, but it's not particularly noticeable, and may be a reference to TV animation of the time, which was often limited in movement, but could still create a unique and memorable look. It's great hearing West, Ward, and Newmar return, their age having barely an impact. They get right into character and you can tell they're having a lot of fun with the material. The supporting cast filling in for deceased actors all do a great job as well, and everybody gets a moment to shine. Burt Ward does a particularly good job, and Robin gets quite a bit of focus through the second half of the story.
The best thing of all, it's fun. Superhero films (especially DC) have been going down a dark path, with films like Dawn Of Justice and The Killing Joke drowning out some of the enjoyment in favor of edgier atmosphere. So the Adam West and Lego versions of Batman provide a much needed break from more adult elements in favor of something family friendly and thoroughly entertaining.
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