I reviewed Batman: The Complete Series (1966-68) in November but now, Warner Bros. is releasing different seasons in parts. Today, the first half of the second season releases with thirty episodes.

Whether it’s someone traditional and formidable like the trio of Julie Newmar’s Catwoman, Burgess Meredith’s Penguin, or Cesar Romero’s The Joker, or a different nightmare like King Tut, Egghead, or Marsha Queen of Diamonds, there’s some safe, family fun in just about every episode. Although, if you look close enough, it’s not quite what you want to show your little ones — just like Tom & Jerry isn’t really ‘safe,’ not for Tom!

It’s amazing to see all of the advance news for Batman vs. Superman (coming soon!) with Ben Affleck – and to realize that Christian Bale, George Clooney, Val Kilmer, and Michael Keaton have all played the Dark Knight since Adam West donned the cowl and tights nearly fifty years ago. Sure, I’ve loved all most of them, but West still holds a nostalgic place in my heart for his forthrightness, his goodness, and his stickwithitness as Batman.

If you don’t own the set, this is a good way to check it out. Quite frankly, it’s a good introduction to Batman the way he was before Frank Miller got his hands on him. There’s nothing wrong with the gritty detective/vigilante, but there’s something morally redeemable about the half-goofball/half-humanitarian that is West’s Batman. rating: buy it.