Batman: The Animated Newsletter
Week of March 22 – 27/28, 1999
Volume 2,
Rated: PG for some “low-key coarse language and occassional griping”
THIS WEEK’S SUBLIMINAL MESSAGE: “TWO FACES ARE BETTER THAN ONE.”
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INTRODUCTION
Welcome to another action-packed issue of “Batman: The Animated Newsletter”!
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SPECIAL/NEW IN THIS ISSUE
Our good friend “Gookie” returns with another look at the recent Batman-related toy lines. And, at least, Laura Hysert returns with another editorial.
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DC’S ANIMATED LEGACY
In early 1990, in the aftermath of the blockbuster “Batman” film, ideas began to form about an animated Batman series. This task had been attempted in the past, from the 60’s to the 80’s, but the series were, moreover, a disappointment. However, in September of 1992, when “Batman: The Animated Series” debuted, it became a financial and critical success – seen as the best non-comics interpretation of Batman in history.
After 65 episodes, season two began in 1994 with a new name for the series – “The Adventures of Batman & Robin”. Like all other aspects of the Bat-mythos in that year, things lightened up a bit – mostly due to Robin playing a heavier role in the series. In 1995, the series passed away silently with 85 episodes, a feature-film, and 4 emmy awards under its Bat-belt.
In 1996, the BTAS team moved on to work on a series for DC’s other major hero, Superman. After 13 episodes, the season got off to a shaky start, but when it was paired up with Batman in the fall of 1997, it got the exposure it needed and began to thrive. In this year, Batman was renewed and 24 more episodes (including a number of crossovers with Superman) were given the go-ahead.
Just as the 1998/99 season of Batman/Superman was drawing to a close, the WB team surprised us once again with a new animated series – a futuristic version of Batman entitled “BATMAN BEYOND”. The season has just begun and it’s already a hit! This is the episode the WB team will be working on until the end of the 1999/2000 season. What will follow? Rumor right now is…MORE BATMAN (the regular one)! Woohoo!
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DAYTIME EMMY AWARD NOMINATIONS
Here’s a look at all the categories either Batman or Superman have been nominated for at the 1999 Daytime Emmy Awards, and who they’re competition is. Thanks to Brian Cruz for the info!
***SPECIAL CLASS – ANIMATED PROGRAM***
-HOW THINGS WERK * ABC
-ROLIE POLIE OLIE * DIS
-LIFE WITH LOUIE * FOX
-STEVEN SPIELBERG PRESENTS: PINKY AND THE BRAIN * WB
-THE NEW BATMAN/SUPERMAN ADVENTURES * WB
-THE SYLVESTER & TWEETY MYSTERIES * WB
***SOUND MIXING – SPECIAL CLASS***
-ARTHUR * PBS
-THE NEW BATMAN/SUPERMAN ADVENTURES * WB
-SESAME STREET * PBS
-STEVEN SPIELBERG PRESENTS: PINKY, ELMYRA & THE BRAIN * WB
***MUSIC DIRECTION & COMPOSITION***
-CASPER * FOX
-LIONHEARTS * SYN
-THE NEW BATMAN/SUPERMAN ADVENTURES * WB
“LEGEND OF THE DARK NIGHT”
SHIRLEY WALKER, COMPOSER
-THE NEW BATMAN/SUPERMAN ADVENTURES * WB
“LITTLE GIRL LOST,PART 1”
LOLITA RITMANIS, COMPOSER
-THE NEW BATMAN/SUPERMAN ADVENTURES * WB
“JUDGEMENT DAY”
MICHAEL MCCUISTION, COMPOSER
-SESAME STREET * PBS
-STEVEN SPIELBERG PRESENTS: ANIMANIACS * WB
-STEVEN SPIELBERG PRESENTS: PINKY AND THE BRAIN * WB
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NEW EPISODE(S)
This section will just basically give an insight into what the new episodes are about and hopefully a synopsis of the episode. This section will feature both new Superman and new Batman episodes.
THE LOSS OF THE WB ON WGN: Beginning this fall, the WB will no longer be carried on WGN-TV’s national feed to avoid conflicts with other WB affiliates. WGN-TV will continue carrying the prime time WB in the Chicago area. If you’re outside the Chicago area and know of no other way to pick up the WB, you may call them at (818)977-5000 for more information. This is taken from the info section of the WGN website, http://www.wgn.com .. Thank you for Peter Destructo for pointing this out.
The WB WILL be shown on a new channel called “WeB” – I know little about this – but if you can get that channel, I’m pretty sure the WB shows would be on.
‘DEMON REBORN’
Superman #??
Air date: ??
BATMAN’S FINAL CURRENT-DAY ANIMATED APPEARANCE! This episode, originally entitled “Rise of the Demon”, features Batman and Superman teaming up to take down Ra’s Al Ghul. One parter, probably – WOOHOO! THE BAT IS BACK! This’ll probably air in May.
‘LEGACY (Pt. 1 & 2)’
Superman #??
Air date: ??
This two-parter, featuring the final showdown between Superman and Darksied, will be the season finale, airing this May.
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WB ANIMATION SCHEDULES:
(courtesy of Brian Cruz and/or the official BTAS/STAS site)
This section of the newsletter highlights the schedule and times that WB airs The New Batman/Superman Adventures. For most affiliates it airs Monday – Friday at 4pm (ET) and Saturdays beginning at 8am (ET). WGN airs Batman/Superman Monday – Friday at 10am (ET) and Sundays beginning at 8am (ET). There’s a chance that your local WB channel airs it at a differant time. To find out when, we recommend you follow this URL (provided by Toonzone): http://www.toonzone.net/brian/stations/index.html
PS – Remember that “Batman Beyond” airs 30 minutes AFTER “Batman/Superman” is over, because “Men In Black” has been squeezed in between.
Mon 3-22-99: Batman #73 Time Out of Joint
Superman #31 Prototype
Tue 3-23-99: Superman #34 Heavy Metal
Batman #77 The Lion & The Unicorn
Wed 3-24-99: Batman #52 Mudslide
Superman #26 Monkey Fun
Thu 3-25-99: Superman #33 Apokolips… Now! (Pt. 1)
Superman #35 Apokolips… Now! (Pt. 2)
Fri 3-26-99: Superman #28 Father’s Day
Batman #79 Riddler’s Reform
Sat 3-27-99: Batman #109 Judgment Day
Superman #51 Superman’s Pal
B-Beyond #03 Black Out
Note: All episodes #86 and onward of BATMAN are considered THE NEW BATMAN ADVENTURES while the original 85 are considered BATMAN: THE ANIMATED SERIES (BTAS) episodes.
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CARTOON NETWORK WB ANIMATION SCHEDULE:
“Yabba Dabba Doom”
(courtesy of Brian Cruz)
THE CARTOON NETWORK was able to get the exclusive rights to 52 episodes of the classic Batman: The Animated Series, as well as MASK OF THE PHANTASM and SUB-ZERO. If our schedule listings is not complete or up to date then please go to TOONZONE for the complete episode schedule:
http://www.toonzone.net/brian/schedules/batman-cn.html
Mon 3-22-99: #42 Moon of the Wolf
Tue 3-23-99: #43 Day of the Samurai
Wed 3-24-99: #45 Terror in the Sky
Thu 3-25-99: #47 Birds of a Feather
Fri 3-26-99: #48 What Is Reality?
NOTE #1: BATMAN & MR. FREEZE: SUB-ZERO will be airing again on CARTOON NETWORK on May 22nd at 8pm (ET) as apart of their CARTOON THEATRE
NOTE #2: CARTOON NETWORK will be having a BATMAN ‘SUPER-CHUNK’ on May 29th. The 3 hour BATMAN Super-Chunk will be from 4pm-7pm (ET). The ‘SUPER-CHUCK’ means that we’ll have three hours worth of BATMAN episodes.
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EPISODE REVIEW: (SPOILERS!)
(by Tim “TWO-FACE” Leighton)
All of Tim “TWO-FACE” Leighton’s reviews of the new-style BTAS episodes and BATMAN BEYOND can be found via these links, which link to “Two-Face’s Tower of Tranquility and Terror”:
MAIN PAGE: http://www.angelfire.com/tx/TimTwoFace/index.html
BTAS PAGE: http://www.angelfire.com/tx/TimTwoFaceText/bats.html
SHRIEK
Written by Stan Berkowitz
Directed by Curt Geda
Animation by Dong Yang
Original air date: March 13, 1999
My rating: ***
“Shriek” is another episode in which Derek Powers hires someone to kill Batman – this time, using sound waves.
That pretty much sums up the plot to the story. The secondary plot is a lot deeper, actually; Powers is trying to attain the legal rights to level a the “Old Gotham” sector of the city, so he can build yet another industrial factory. Bruce Wayne hates the idea, so he confronts Powers in the board room, convincing his committee that they should at least vote on this. Later it is revealed that this sector of the city means a lot to Bruce because it is the location of the original GCPD headquarters, as well as the movie theatre he attended with his parents when they were shot seventy years before.
Powers sics Shriek (a scientist which specializes in sound waves) on Bruce; Bruce is sent to the hospital. While there, he is being driven crazy by a mini-radio Powers has implanted into his body while unconscious; the result is Bruce constantly hearing voices in his head.
There are many good things in this episode. Finally, we see another story that gives Bruce Wayne a large role. Seeing Terry doing some detective work for the first time (it even suprised Bruce!) was good too – it looks like he is maturing into the role of Batman. The ties to the past with the historical sector of Gotham were nice, too. The final fight scene with Shriek was well done, too, for all the sound had been removed (this episode focuses immensely on sound), which makes it very eerie.
The only thing that I didn’t really find wonderful about this episode was Shriek himself. He just lacked charisma and I didn’t really get into his personality – only his gimmicks. Still, an enjoyable episode!
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SPECIAL IN THIS ISSUE
BATMAN COLLECTIBLES NEWS
by Craig “Gookie” Crumpton
NEW BATMAN BEYOND FIGURES ARRIVE IN STORES
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Yeah, I know you’re all just salivating to get your hands on these new toys (he said sarcastically), but I just wanted to let everyone know that they ARE out — I saw them at Toys R Us this past Friday night. But I saw something I didn’t expect to see…
Finally seeing one up close and personal (rather than squinting to see some fuzzy internet pic)… well, my opinion remains pretty much unchanged. Nice packaging, but kinda crappy figures. They look like a composite of the previous plastic renderings of the animated characters with the toys from the “Batman & Robin” movie action figures.
But the thing I wasn’t expecting and really suprised me was to see that the new “Future Knight Batman” was…
TRANSPARENT!
And honestly, I think it does look kinda cool! I don’t believe this had even been mentioned before, or else I just don’t remember it. And it’s really the only one in the lot that even remotely resembles the animated version (unless this rumor I just read in a post here turns out to be true), and probably the only one this action figure collector will be buying, well besides the Jokerz Leader (gotta have a Bruce Timm figure, you know)… which is really not so bad. I mean, yes, the colors are a little gaudy, but like all the earlier villain action figs were all winners too?
I still have a problem with the “Covert Batman” figure being packaged upside-down on purpose to supposedly highlight the “hooks” on his feet so the figure can hang upside-down. First of all, if you’ve seen the figure, it’s painted much too gaudy to be “covert” (as I described it before, it looks like a zebra that’s half-albino), but like realism has ever been much of a concern to Hasbro’s toy designers. For another, it just looks stupid to have the figure packaged upside-down. It’s a cheap gimmick to get kids to buy the figure, and toy hoarders to buy them all up thinking that they’re variants and they can resell them at 4 times their worth. The latter, actually, would be justice because the figures would be practically worthless! So maybe it’s not such a bad idea there. But still, to use that as a selling point to get kids to buy it… that, I have a problem with.
Also, the Batman “Mission Masters” action figures are out as well, but they’re not all really that impressive… with the exception of the Mr. Freeze figure. This is the ideal figure for Bat-maniacs and action figure collectors. Not only is it detailed to the letter the same as
Freeze appeared in “Cold Comfort”, but the head actually detaches as the free-standing, creepy-looking, mechanical spidery-thing. It’s such a great figure, I’m buying two of them.
NEW 12-INCH BATGIRL FIGURE
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I was priviledged enough to see the Batman Beyond figures before they were released to stores. A local comic store owner had just gotten back from the Previews “Diamond Comics” distribution meeting for comic store owners, and he brought a few back with him.
But he also showed me an exclusive Batgirl figure that won’t be released for several months (it was in a Ziploc bag). The packaging for the figure hasn’t even been made yet. But this figure is very nice: 12 inches tall, with a cloth Mego-style costume, cowl and cape (yes, it’s “The New Batman Adventures” style, not BTAS); synthetic hair; and several accessories (like the Batarang and Bat-Grapling-gun). The comic store owner couldn’t tell me much else about it, so I’m assuming this will be similar to the 12-inch animated Superman figure made available exclusively from PREVIEWS (Diamond Comic Distributors) last year.
NEW BATMAN COLLECTIBLES @ THE WARNER BROS STUDIO STORES
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There are also some new Batman/Superman t-shirts at the WBSS, though they are all kids’ sizes. Unless you’re like me and can squeeze into a kids’ XL without it looking too tight. And there’s this keen Batman baseball cap that’s been out at the WBSS that I’ve had my eye on for quite sometime. It’s black, and on the front has “BATMAN” in that cool, noir typestyle as was used on BTAS. I gotta hurry up and get mine though, there are only two left at the WBSS nearest me.
And the new WBSS catalog also has several new Batman/Superman items, but again, they’re mostly for kids. Still, you might wanna take a look at ’em if you’re any kind of collector of all things Batman.
Just thought I’d take the time to give everyone who’s interested a heads-up on the new stuff.
Oh, I gotta mention this too… you should get a “rise” outta this. The WBSS just got in a buncha new boxer shorts, and they all have these…er, “suggestive” messages on them, just FULL of innuendo. Besides the Bugs Bunny one having “WHAT’S UP, DOC?” printed on the fly, there’s a
pair of SUPERMAN boxers w/ the “S” emblem to the right and “MAN OF STEEL” printed in bold letters right on the fly.
Izzat a crack-up or WHAT?
-Gookie
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EDITORAL
(by Laura Hysert, aka “Phoenix”)
BITCHES, BIMBOS AND GLAMOUR DOLLS, Part One
That’s a very odd title. I wonder if Tim and James will let me get away with repeatedly writing the word “bitch” in my editorial. Hmm.
I see this as the introduction to a series of editorials exploring (ha!) the women of BTAS and STAS. This seems like a good idea now. Heaven only knows if it will seem like a good idea when my fever subsides. I’ll tell you later.
Let’s take a quick look at the heroines and villainesses, shall we? We’ll start with the villainesses first. That is such a stupid name. “Villainesses.” It’s almost as bad as “authoresses.” Maybe worse, because you can hardly say it. And “heroine.” You know what that sounds like. Not very flattering at all. And the whole idea of cutesifying (Word Creation
Alert!) titles for women is just…but I digress.
The Villains:
Harleen, the Bronx Sleaze: Slept her way to a Psychology degree. Abandoned her job and acquired a thick, slummy New York accent when she started following the Joker around like a sick, sick puppy. Points to the writers for broaching the subject of abuse, though.
Pamela, the Ice Princess: Poison Ivy’s so cold, she makes Mr. Freeze look like a jalepeno pepper soaked in gasoline (no, kiddies, don’t try this at home. It’s called a SIMILE.). You have to admire her poise, her audacity (she put a whole new twist on marrying for money), and her new hair style. Wish she didn’t get caught so easily, though.
Selina, the Bitter Glamour Grrl: She really loved being a blonde. It made her so happy, she went out and stole pretty shiny things. But then she found out her hair dye manufacturers were bad, bad critters. Now she’s gone goth and bitter, but she still steals pretty shiny things.
Livewire, the Snarky Brat: We all hate her. She’s so damn annoying. She’s not really a villain; she’s that dirty-faced kid down the street who stands at the edge of your yard and shoots spitballs at your dog.
And the Heroes:
Barbara, the Kept Woman: We all want a sugar daddy. Some nice billionaire who will buy us lots of neat things and dress us up in Donna Karan gowns and take us to balls. So we really can’t blame Barbara for jumping at the chance when it presented itself. Too bad she had to sacrifice her independence and self-respect for it.
Kara, the Perky Cheerleader: You have to love her Dorothy-like wonder and innocence. Even if she dresses like a Main Street hooker. But why the kid gloves? Is she afraid of ruining her nails? Is it possible for a Kryptonian to break a nail? And if so, why doesn’t Superman wear gloves? I’m betting that’s the reason Batman wears ’em.
Lois, the Bitch Goddess: Ah, the bitch goddess. Gifted with an eternal spring of acidic barbs, she got straight A’s in school and still managed to have all the cool guys chase after her. But she’s so consumed with her own agenda, she forgets that other human beings exist on this planet. Could explain why she has a crush on a muscle-bound alien.
As you can tell, I have little use for how women are portrayed in the animated series nowadays. There are some bright spots, though – like how Barbara was portrayed before she got a tour of the BatCave. And there’s Maggie, Montoya, and Dr. Thompkins. All this and more will be explored…in time.
That is, as long as I don’t wake up and exclaim, “This is crap! What was I THINKING?” I bet this is how Wing Commander made it to the screen: the entire cast and crew, doped up on Extra Strength Tylonel Cold.
Laura
Recovering Bitch Goddess Extraordinaire
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TO INFINITY AND BEYOND
– a column dedicated to “Batman Beyond”
(by Ed Wiser)
ewiser@iglou.com
Mr. Wiser was unable to submit an article for this column at the printing of this newsletter. But fear not, he WILL return shortly!
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BATMAN: THE ANIMATED TRIVIA
(by Tim “TWO-FACE” Leighton)
This is one of my favourite sections, where I get to boggle the minds of all our readers! *EVIL LAUGH* This trivia is all animated-related in some form, and can deal with ANY aspect of the show or comics. Some are easy, some are not. Now have fun – let’s see how well you do! Answers are provided in the following section.
At this very moment I’m surrounded by a bunch of whining, crying, screaming toddlers (we run a daycare at my house during the day), so I thought, “let’s make the trivia section focus on kids this time!”
91. What was the name of the girl that aided her brother in saving Batman from the Penguin by hiding him in her basement?
A: JENNIFER
B: ROBERTA
C: PATRICIA
D: SAMANTHA
E: LARA
92. Everyone knows who Tim Drake is. But there has been ANOTHER Tim on BTAS – in what episode did he appear?
A: “BE A CLOWN”
B: “I’VE GOT A BATMAN IN MY BASEMENT”
C: “BEWARE THE GRAY GHOST”
D: “GROWING PAINS”
E: “DEEP FREEZE”
93. What are the names of Poison Ivy’s two “children”?
A: Alicia & Melissa
B: Chris & Shelley
C: Robin & Robyn
D: Chris & Kelley
E: Daniel & Matthew
94. What is the name of the young boy who is repeatedly bullied by Nelson Nash?
A: Carl Grissom
B: Terry McGinnis
C: Willy Watt
D: Gregory MacNellis
E: Timmy Layton
95. Charlie Collins has a son named Kenny. In the episode in which Collins appeared, what sport were he and his child playing in one scene?
A: “Catch”
B: Frisbee
C: Football
D: Street-hockey
E: Toss-the-kabur
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ANSWERS TO THE TRIVIA
Answer to #91: ‘B’
Answer to #92: ‘A’
Answer to #93: ‘D’
Answer to #94: ‘C’
Answer to #95: ‘C’
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LITTLE FACTS
(by Tim “TWO-FACE” Leighton)
Here is a section that just points out various little facts that we have noticed while watching BTAS and STAS countless times. If you have anything to contribute, feel free to do so! Enjoy!
CONBTRIBUTED BY STAFF:
1) Remember how WAY BACK in the earliest episodes of BTAS (“On Leather Wings”, “Nothing to Fear”, “The Last Laugh”), Richard Moll (Two-Face) did the voice of the Batcomputer? Then, the Batcomputer was silent until the BEYOND episode “Shriek”, 6.5 years later. And who’s doing the voice of the computer now? Sherman Howard I THINK (he’s Powers/Blight’s voice). It just doesn’t sound the same! But would we rather have cyber-Alfred? *SHUDDER*
2) Correct me if I’m wrong, but the waiter at the restaurant in “Trial” was voiced by Mark Hamill. (Joker)
3) Ever notice how the mysterious informant seen at the beginning of “Off Balance” bears a striking resemblance to Tim Burton?
4) Our mistake. Arhtur Reeves was NOT named after BTAS Michael Reaves, as I earlier suggested; Arthur was apparently in the comics in the 70’s and 80’s. Thanks to the many of you that corrected us on this!
CONTRIBUTED BY OTHERS:
(Grey Eyes)
5) Remember the chubby lady in “Chemistry” who ran in front of all the other women to try and catch the bride’s bouquet? She looks EXACTLY like Bruce Timm’s drawing of Jean Macurdy in the Batman: Animated book – she’s drawn as a packaged action figure!(its on the page with all the caricatures of the crew)
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BATMAN: THE ANIMATED FIGURES
(by Kevin Smith)
ktsmit2@ilstu.edu
Oh_Ho77@hotmail.com
The last time I wrote in, I asked readers to list their favorite Top 5 Animated Batman Figures, and what they would most like to see made. To my surprise, I actually got responses. (Thankyouthankyouthankyou!) And, as promised, I’m including their opinions here – this is your chance to speak out! (Are you paying attention, Kenner? This is what we’d like to give you MONEY for!!!)
“Leiter” submitted his opinion:
1. BTAS Mr. Freeze
2. TNBA Batman
3. TNBA Two-Face
4. TNBA Nightwing
5. BTAS Gangster Joker
And I REALLY want a TNBA Penguin! (I agree! I want a Pengy too!) Another reader, Chris sent a very detailed request – bonus points to you! Thanks for allowing me to voice my opinion Kevin! This is only about the 100th time, but hopefully someone behind their desk will get the idea
real soon. 🙂
*Honorable mentions that I would love to see made,but realize I never will include Alfred and the long-rumored Cops 3-pack featuring Gordon, Montoya, and Bullock*
5)Killer Croc/Baby-Doll – The perfect 2-pack! Killer Croc would make a pretty cool figure on his own, but throw in a never-before released Baby-Doll figure and this 2-pack would rock! Hell, I’d buy it just for the Baby-Doll figure! Doll would have to be articulated though and not just a stupid pvc figure like the first Croc’s pet crocodile. Give her an exploding babydoll and kids and adults alike would take bunches of pleasure being able to re-enact the “Love’s a Croc” episode. Are you listening Hasbro?
4)Scarface and Ventriloquist – Not one of my favorite new designs, but at this point I’ll take this great character(s) anyway I can get him. Scarface must come with movable jaw and must be able to sit atop Ventriloquist’s hand. Throw in a machine gun and uzi and you’ve got my $6.00
3)Calendar Girl – My favorite of the new characters, Calendar Girl is a must have. If not for the fact that she’s a cool character, she should be made for the fact that her accessory possibilites are endless. A removable mask is a must, but she could also come with pumpkin bombs, Roman Candles, exploding turkeys, etc. Snap-on saches would also be a nice touch or color-changing costume action when you dip her in water. That would be a nice touch for the kiddies! 🙂
2)Poison Ivy – Another great character much in the need of a new figure would be Miss Isley. Her new design was a drastic one and she has become much more of a main character then she was before. She made more appearances then many other villains and she would just make one hell of
a great figure. Throw in a Potted Venus Flytrap accessory with open and close mouth and bendable vines and a few beakers full of deadly poisons and toxins and she’d be ready to go. Hell, she may even look feminine and seductive this time around and less like a man.
1)Catwoman – The #1 gotta have figure from the new style. I agree with you that she must come in a normal pose (no bent knee). Some neat accessories might include a few cats (like the original did with Isis) and a couple jewels for this master thief to steal. And her famous whip
of course. I figure that if we see any more villains, it will be here. She’s the only main villain from the new style yet to be made into a new figure. (Toy Review – There *is* Penguin.) I just can’t believe that Riddler made the cut before her.(Toy Review – They did it with TOS
figures. Didn’t surprise me one bit.)
Well, that’s it for now! If I get any other replies, I will include them too. Until next time, good luck finding a removable head Mr. Freeze!
– Kevin
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COMIC REVIEWS
(by Aaron Maurer)
BATMAN: GOTHAM ADVENTURES
ISSUE: “Never an Option” (#12)
WRITTEN BY: Ty Templeton
PENCILED BY: Rick Burchett
INKED BY: Terry Beatty
ISSUED: March 3, 1999 (Cover date is May)
RATING: **.5 (out of 5)
“Of course you get to live. You’re one of the good guys.” -Two-Face to Batman
SUMMARY: After being caught in customs, some smugglers take a hostage, but Two-Face surprisingly drops in and stops them. Later, at police headquarters, Harvey Dent’s psychiatrist discusses several cases of Two-Face acting as good guy with Batman and Commisioner Gordon. She reveals that Harvey is using a weighted coin that always lands good side up; this coupled with his identity of the Judge has caused him to make decent decisions. She is worried, though, that Harvey has some sort of death wish since the Judge sentenced him to death for all his crimes. Batman finds out from an accomplice of Two-Face what he is planning
next, but he is inabled by a statue, so Harvey gets away. However, through deductive reasoning, Batman figures out what Harvey is up to. Meanwhile, Two-Face is planning to get out of Gotham with help from members of the Janus Corporation (see “The Lost Years” for background). However, he double-crosses them, and sends them out with parachutes. Batman has been clinging to the outside of the plane this whole time and he swoops in for a skirmish with Dent. Only one parachute is left and the controls to the plane are ruined, so Two-Face says that if the good side comes up, Batman gets the parachute and Harvey dies. Batman tells him that the coin is rigged, but he says it doesn’t matter, and when good side comes up, he leaps out of the plane. Batman takes the parachute and jumps after him, grabbing him and opening the chute just as the plane crashes.
COMMENTS: This issue had some good things going for it. First, it incorporated characters from the show (Harvey’s shrink, the twin henchguys (Min and Max)) nicely. It’s always interesting to see supporting characters again, and this book does a great job. Next, the reference to Two-Face’s drug smuggling a few years ago was made. This was a nice, relevant reference to the Lost Years. Also, the art in this issue was, as always, superb. (Check out the final page, for example.) I also like the little gags and nuances a lot. Don’t the two drug smugglers from the very beginning of the issue bear a suspicious resemblance to Kevin Smith’s Jay and Silent Bob?…
CRITICISMS: All in all, I didn’t feel that this story had too much depth. It was just another “switch the coin on Two-Face” escapade with a few rather pointless fights. However, I did like the ending; the last few pages were very dramatic and hopeful. Still, it was too little, too
late.
BOTTOM LINE: If you’re a fan of Two-Face, you might enjoy this; otherwise, you may be disappointed.
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COMIC SCHEDULES & COVERING THE BASICS
This section gives a little bit more indepth look into each monthly issue of BATMAN: GOTHAM ADVENTURES and SUPERMAN ADVENTURES. Below each comic listing is a link to the cover of that comic. TALK ABOUT SERVICE!
The price is $1.99 in the US and..grrrrr…a whopping $3.25 in Canada. (Both our editors and many subscribers are Canadian, hence the “grrr”.)
BATMAN: GOTHAM ADVENTURES #13
April 7th
It’s the return of Mastermind, the Perfessor and Mister Nice (from the pages of the original BATMAN ADVENTURES series)! This criminal trio has faced its share of challenges in the past, but now a visit from a strange child could lead to the dissolution of their partnership, if not their very lives! Can Batman save some of his greatest enemies?
Cover: http://www.dccomics.com/directcurrents/comics/covers/download/dbmga13.jpg
NEXT MONTH: – The final issue of “Gotham Adventures” written by Ty Templeton (we’ll miss you)! This issue follows-up on the storyline in , where Harley resists being seduced by the dark side and returning to the Joker. Her romance novel is panned by critics so she goes on a rampage involving…mind control?
Cover: http://www.toonzone.net/comics/covers/bga/bga14.jpg
BATMAN BEYOND #4
April 21st
Etrigan, the Demon, assists Batman in fighting crime in the futuristic Gotham City.
Cover: http://www.toonzone.net/comics/covers/bb/bb4.jpg
NEXT MONTH: Issue #5 – On a field trip to the Gotham Museum of Natural History, Terry and his class are menaced by what appears to be a re-animated Egyptian mummy! Other strange events follow as several students contract a mysterious emaciating disease. Is there a connection between these strange occurrences and the new foreign student in school who seems obsessed with Terry’s girlfriend Dana?
Cover: Not available.
SUPERMAN ADVENTURES #32
April 7th
Meet Daily Planet janitor Ben Sullivan’s girlfriend…Lois Lane? Ben, a mild-mannered staffer with a huge crush on Lois, accidentally becomes the object of the reporter’s affections when she’s hit by a supervillain’s hypnotic device. Now Ben’s in seventh heaven while Superman not only must foil a foe who can plant hypnotic suggestions in anyone’s mind, but also find a way to break Lois’s trance before it becomes irreversible!
Cover: http://www.toonzone.net/comics/covers/sa/sa32.jpg
NEXT MONTH:
Superman’s greatest enemies have never figured out that Clark Kent and the Man of Steel are one and the same person — until now. Who’s learned the world’s greatest secret, and how can Clark prove him wrong before he reveals it to the entire world?
Cover: http://www.toonzone.net/comics/covers/sa/sa33.jpg
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ANIMATED NEWS AND RUMORS
ALL-ENCOMPASSING/OTHER
-Mania.Com seems to have the inside scoop about Kids’WB! next season. Use this URL to go and check out the information:
http://www.mania.com/columns/amhh/amhh031999_kidswb.html
-The WB Network reported this week that on March 13 Batman Beyond (which was the debut of “Shriek”) scored the highest metered market rating (4.4/12) in the Kids’ WB! history. The Kids’ WB! line-up matched its highest metered market output this season (3.0/9), improving +25% in rating over the weekend season-to-date average, and defeating ABC (2.9/9), FOX (2.1/6) and CBS (1.2/4) to rank #1 in the metered markets for the weekend. Congratulations Kids’WB! This weekend’s new episode was all-new ‘DEAD MAN’S HAND’. Did it do as good?
“CURRENT” ANIMATED SERIES’
-The current animated series has only about 5 more Superman episodes (one of which being a Batman crossover), all of which will air by May. After that, BTAS/STAS will not return until Sept. of 2000 at the earliest.
BATMAN BEYOND
-One of the new villains which has yet to appear this season is named Curare.
-The Comic Book Continuum has an article about this weekend’s BATMAN BEYOND episode, if you want some more info on the episode go here:
http://detnews.com/metro/hobbies/comix/stories/9903/17/index.htm
-Ra’s Al Ghul is currently NOT planned to be on BEYOND. However, Talia IS. (Where’s Ubu?)
-Batman Beyond has reportedly been signed to a 52 episode commitment! We’ll be seeing a lot of new episodes next fall on its weekend show. Repeats of Batman Beyond will rotate with repeats of Batman/Superman this fall on THE NEW BATMAN/SUPERMAN ADVENTURES weekday installments. New episodes will premiere only in the weekend BATMAN BEYOND time slot.
ANIMATED COMICS
-Also it seems that BATMAN BEYOND will only be a limited series, with a new ongoing series (so far titled BATMAN:ADVENTURES BEYOND) premiering in the fall with Hilary J. Bader still writing, but as of yet, an undetermined art team.
-Still wondering if you should spend $1.99 (or 3.25 CAN) on BATMAN BEYOND #3? Well here is a very positive review, with spoilers:
http://www.snapjudgments.com/snapjudg/week3/sjbeyond.html
-Inque returns in BATMAN BEYOND #6.
-Terry Beatty returns to working on “Gotham Adventures” with .
-Rick Burchett is taking a break from “Gotham Adventures” for the time being.
OTHER COMICS
-What’s DC up to this year? Follow this link: http://www.mania.com/newsarama/dc99.html
-For more, see the “Road Through No Man’s Land” section below.
MOVIES
-The third animated Bat-movie is on the way! The first script has been submitted to the WB; the plot hasn’t been released, but it HAS been released that, at this point in time, there are NOT plans to have it shown in theatres. They are aiming for an August/September 2000 release date.
-The Gotham Weekly News says that there is a rumour that Gwyneth Paltrow could be the actor chosen to play everyone’s favourite feline fatale in the rumoured “Catwoman” movie.
-NBC will be showing “BATMAN FOREVER” from 8:30pm to 11pm on April 4th
TOYS & MERCHANDISE
-The “Mission Masters” series continues in Wave 4 of the new-style animated figures. Riddler is the featured villain and there will undoubtedly be a multitude of hero variants – including a new Batman, and, finally, another Robin (Tim Drake)!
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THE ROAD THROUGH NO MAN’S LAND
(by Tim “TWO-FACE” Leighton)
Yes, I know this isn’t really an animated topic, but I thought, hey, it’s Batman’s 60th anniversary, and this is the big event that celebrates it, so I should have a section dedicated to this year-long crossover. Besides, so far it’s been excellent in every issue. We have this section split up into two parts – the first saying what has already happened, the second previewing what’s to come. Enjoy!
UP UNTIL NOW…
After 100 days of absence, Batman has returned, and took down the Ventriloquist and Scarface; Rhino no runs that sector of town under Batman’s control. The GCPD have eliminated the “lesser” gangs in Gotham by starting up a bloody turf war. Batgirl has appeared here and there, and has also encountered Batman himself. Pretty much all the villains have made an appearance as a cameo by now.
The Scarecrow took up refuge in the “Faith Sector” of town, and tries to get them to get into a major gang-war with the Penguin and Black Mask. The Huntress is the only hope once Father Chris agrees to store Penguin’s weapons at the church in exchange for food. Batman and Huntress eventually take the Scarecrow down – but he’s still on the loose. It is then revealed that Batman is not working out of the Batcave anymore, but Arkham Asylum.
Then we see a flashback of Rene Montoya in Downtown Gotham, where she runs into good-Samaritan Two-Face, who is helping the people there, due to the luck of the coin. Batgirl saves a couple from the Joker’s old hideout, and Harold (Batman’s mechanic) runs into Gotham to “help fix things”.
In earlier March, Batman confronts the Penguin in the Iceberg Lounge – and he wins a small victory, and the Penguin loses some of his power in Gotham; the word of Batman’s re-appearance spreads like wildfire. Gordon makes a deal with the devil – figuratively speaking – but no one knows who this devil is. Many think it is Two-Face (there are some hints), but no one knows for sure at this point.
In the most recent story, mob boss/cult-leader Black Mask, who owns the largest chunk of Gotham, tries to take the GCPD sector, putting Oracle in grave danger; she is just about to kill him, but Batgirl gets in the way. And, believe it or not, Lock-Up and KGBeast make appearances, too – and they’re on Batman’s side, in seems.
That’s 12 issues of NML so far. For a complete list, e-mail us.
AS FOR THE OTHER HEROES:
-Robin and Nightwing return to Gotham in June!
-Robin’s first duty is to aid Batman in saving Poison Ivy from Clayface.
-Nightwing tries to bring order back to Blackgate prison.
-Superman arrives in Gotham this April in Batman #566, and will later return in October.
-Catwoman’s not really a hero, but I’ll include her here anyhow. She’s still searching the world for more pretty things. Paris didn’t satisfy her – but will New York? She will eventually return to Gotham.
-Azrael will confront the Joker in April.
-A single issue focusing on Alfred’s dealings with No Man’s Land will also come out soon.
-And it seems that new GCPD officer Petit, who has a thirst for blood, gains control of most of the GCPD, leaving Gordon in the cold. I bet Bullock still sticks with ‘im, though.
-Speaking of which, a one-shot focussing on how Bullock is handling No Man’s Land is also due out.
WHAT’S TO COME…
-For the rest of March, we will see Batman and Batgirl confronting underworld kingpin Black Mask.
-May, we see the GCPD confront the Penguin, and Batman confronts Two-Face. The Penguin and Two-Face stories are said to be one of the most important segments in the battle in No Man’s Land.
-Francine Langstrom comes to the Penguin for help, which results in Man-Bat returning to Gotham.
-Batgirl’s identity will be revealed in June, in “Legends of the Dark Knight” #120! But rumor is that there may be MULTIPLE Batgirls?
-Also in June, Robin returns to aid Batman in the three-part “Fruit of the Earth” story-arc, featuring Poison Ivy and Clayface.
-See more below.
AND AS FOR THE REMAINING VILLAINS…
-Lock-Up and KGBeast will re-appear in smaller roles, presumably, after their first NML appearances in Batman #565.
-Mr. Freeze seizes control of the power plant to stay alive – and to have something valuable to trade with the rest of society. His story involves – a plumber?
-Poison Ivy has sought refuge in the Robinson Park and turned it into a Garden-of-Eden paradise. But then Clayface appears and turns this Eden into a Hell for Ivy.
-Bane tries to gain control of the city – again – but has to break in from the outside – across the river filled with land mines. This is in Detective Comics #736, in July.
-Man-Bat appears, thanks to the Penguin
-Penguin seems to have the only access to points of the world OUTSIDE of Gotham, and basically rules the city, living in luxury. The GCPD will move in on him during the first major turf war in NO MAN’S LAND.
-Two-Face has seized control of the political and financial districts in Downtown Gotham, and has a unique tie to Rene Montoya of the GCPD. While the GCPD confronts the Penguin, Batman tries to take Two-Face down but fails in his first attempt. Two-Face then releases the Russian assassin “Echo” from Blackgate Prison, who goes on a killing spree, with a bounty on Batgirl’s head.
-The Joker doesn’t appear as a major player until close to the end, along with the new, improved Harley Quinn – whom will appear with the Joker AND Poison Ivy in August.
-The Mad Hatter, Killer Croc, Mr. Zsasz, and various other “lesser” villains have their own chunks of Gotham to rule as well.
-Ra’s Al Ghul, meanwhile, is in Washington D.C. battling Anarky in his new ongoing series.
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TWO-FACE’S TRADING POST
(by Tim “TWO-FACE” Leighton)
I know that there are many people out there that collect Batman OR Superman items – like
myself. I only started a year ago and, believe me, finding some of these items (like action figures) that were released a couple years ago is pretty tough! So, I decided to start up a
little section in the newsletter to help out our fellow Bat-fans. I can only personally guarantee that my entries are 100% true, for I saw these items with my own eyes. So we’re working on the honour system here. Sound fair?
ALSO if you are LOOKING for something, e-mail me and I can put your request in the “WANT TO BUY” section. There is the possibility that a fellow subscriber is willing to sell what you’re looking for!
IMPORTANT QUERY: Many fans have been unable to see any of the new-style BTAS episodes, and any of the STAS or BATMAN BEYOND episodes. Can someone who is in the know point out a website that tells the copyright laws regarding taping episodes off the TV and selling them to people who want ’em? I’m not saying we’re doing this – but I know it would help many out. So if anyone has any official info on this (or, better yet, if someone from the WB network contact us), that’d be great. In the meantime, we won’t be selling or trading any home-recorded BTAS episodes here.
Well, here we go! I hope this helps out someone out there!
1. KILLER CROC. Editor Tim “TWO-FACE” Leighton has a spare Killer Croc figure lying around, in a mint package. E-mail juno@direct if interested.
2. THE MAD HATTER. Yup! Editor Tim “TWO-FACE” Leighton has one spare BTAS “Mad Hatter” figure (in a mint-condition package) in his possession that he is willing to get rid of. This is the only Mad Hatter figure in existance (to our collective knowledge), and is a wonderful figure besides! Sure, that was a shameless plug, but it IS a cool figure. If interested, e-mail him at: juno@direct.ca
3. THE CREEPER. Anyone want this figure? Mail Tim “TWO-FACE” Leighton and he’ll be able to find one for you. E-mail: juno@direct.ca
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WANTS TO BUY
1. CLAYFACE. Anyone know where to get a “Legends of the Dark Knight” Clayface figure? I know it’s not animated, but it still counts for this column…can anyone help? E-mail: juno@direct.ca
2. COMBAT BELT BATMAN, BTAS BATMOBILE. If you know where to find these figures – or a BTAS Batwing (I’m pretty sure one was made) e-mail this address: cnwitkow@concentric.net ______________________________
FEATURED BAT-SITES FOR THIS ISSUE
**BTAS VOICE ACTORS AT THE “TOWER OF TRANQUILITY AND TERROR”**
EVEN MORE ADDED!
I know that it may seem selfish to promote my own site in my own newsletter, but I thought this would help everyone out. At TWO-FACE’S TOWER OF TRANQUILITY AND TERROR I have added a new section that focuses on the actors for BTAS, providing pics, short bios, sound bytes, and more! If you wanna check it out, go here:
http://www.angelfire.com/tx/TimTwoFaceText/voices.html
To check out the rest of the site, go to THIS address:
http://www.angelfire.com/tx/TimTwoFace/index.html
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**BATMAN NEWSLETTER IN THE UK**
Starting soon, a brand new Batman newsletter from the United Kingdom. Brian Davis, well known UK Batfan will be bringing you all the gossip regarding Batman from the UK. There will be exclusive news, reviews and interviews. You will get the news as it happens !!! Hear what the UK think of the latest Batman projects. This monthly newsletter will be very entertaining for fans in all parts of the world. To subscribe simply e-mail here:
batmanUK-subscribe@listbot.com
If you would like to write a letter or ask some questions for the letter section then please e-mail Brian at: BDavis2613@aol.com
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ANIMATED BATMAN/SUPERMAN SITES:
* – indicates a shameless plug for a site a certain double-faced editor created with his bare hands – in other words, a cheap advertising technique.
OFFICIAL SITES
—–
THE NEW BATMAN/SUPERMAN ADVENTURES
http://www.batman-superman.com
BATMAN:THE ANIMATED SERIES
http://www.batmantas.com
BATMAN BEYOND
http://www.batmanbeyond.com
SUB-ZERO: THE DEFINTIE GUIDE
http://www.batman-subzero.com
DC COMICS
http://www.dccomics.com
TOON ZONE
http://www.toonzone.net
RAVING TOY MANIAC
http://www.toymania.com
VOICE CHASERS
http://www.voicechasers.org
UNOFFICIAL SITES
—–
*TWO-FACE’S TOWER OF TRANQUILITY AND TERROR
http://www.angelfire.com/tx/TimTwoFace/index.html
BRIAN CRUZ’ WB CARTOON PAGE
http://www.toonzone.net/brian/index.html
BRIAN’S BATMAN PAGE
http://members.aol.com/bdavis2613/main.html
GOTHAM GAZETTE
http://members.aol.com/gothamajp
BATMAN: THE ANIMATED HOMEPAGE
http://www3.sympatico.ca/quartet/home.htm
RA’S AL GHUL’S THE LAZARUS PIT
http://www.aitnet.et/lazaruspit
ANIMANIA
http://hjem.get2net.dk/twt/home.htm
HARLEY’S HAVEN OF HEDONISM
http://www.angelfire.com/hi/harlequinhideaway
THE ANIMATED BAT
http://www.geocities.com/Hollywood/Academy/7382/index.html
BATMAN/SUPERMAN SNAP JUDGMENTS
http://www.snapjudgments.com/batsup.html
BATMAN BEYOND MULTIMEDIA
http://www.prophecysite.com/batman.htm
THE BATCOMPUTER
http://members.spree.com/batcomputer
BATMAN: FOREVER KNIGHT
http://batman.techv.net
WORLD’S FINEST
http://members.spree.com/sip/worldsfinest
CHARACTERS ON THE ADVENTURES OF BATMAN & ROBIN
http://www.xse.com/leres/batman.html
ARKHAM ASYLUM
http://animation.acmecity.com/saturday/352
JLA: THE ANIMATED SERIES
http://animation.acmecity.com/character/375
THE NEW BATMAN ADVENTURES: THE UNOFFICIAL SITE
http://www.geocities.com/Hollywood/Makeup/5158
MESSAGE BOARDS
—–
HEAVY DUTY DUBBAS DISCUSSION CENTER
http://members.spree.com/sip/hddboards
SUPERMAN: THE ANIMATED MESSAGE BOARD
http://www.insidetheweb.com/mbs.cgi/mb158314
NEWSGROUPS
—–
news:alt.comics.batman
news:alt.animation.batman
news:alt.comics.superman
news:rec.arts.sf.superman
news:alt.tv.cartoon-network
news:rec.arts.animation
news:alt.animation.warner-bros
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QUESTIONS, SUBMISSIONS, AND FAN-MAIL
If you have any questions, problems, links do not work, or anything else then please e-mail this address with your problems and we’ll try to fix them as soon as possible. Also if you’d like to send any fan-mail then please send it to this address:
juno@direct.ca
As for submissions, feel free to submit an article or opinion on anything pertaining to BTAS. Keep in mind that as the editors, we have the right to edit your submissions if we deem it necessary. Such instances would include problems with length, grammar, and language. If we do feel we must edit something, however, we will do our utmost to ensure that the opinion and the basic message of the submission does not change, as that is the most important part of any artcile, and everyone is entitled to it.
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BATMAN: THE ANIMATED ARCHIVES
The very kind people at TOONZONE were nice enough to give us our own little section of their huge and diverse website. The archives contain past newsletters and is semi-regularly updated with the latest one. To check it out go here:
TOONZONE’s BATMAN: THE ANIMATED NEWSLETTER ARCHIVES
http://www.toonzone.net/wbc/btan
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LIKE WHAT YA SEE? WANNA SUBSCRIBE? HERE’S HOW!!!
For those of you who are seeing this at the WBC HOMEPAGE BTAN ARCHIVES section, and want to subscribe just follow these simple instructions:
To subscribe email juno@direct.ca and put SUBSCRIBE in the subject line.
For more information the newsletter just email btaninfo@yahoo.com
Thank you for your time, and thanks for reading! Tell your friends!
-Tim TWO-FACE Leighton and Dick Grayson, editors
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TO ALL GOOD THINGS…
…there must be an end. We would like to thank the endless amount of contributors for contributing their editorials, columns, news, jokes, reviews and other articles. We hope you’ve all enjoyed it as much as we’ve enjoyed making it! See ya next time!
CREDITS FOR BATMAN: THE ANIMATED NEWSLETTER
EDITORS: Tim “TWO-FACE” Leighton and “Dick Grayson”
AIR DATE SCHEDULES: Brian Cruz
BTAS REVIEWS: Tim “TWO-FACE” Leighton
EDITORIAL: Laura Hysert
BATMAN BEYOND COLUMN: Ed Wiser
COMIC REVIEWS: Aaron Maurer
TOY REVIEW: Kevin Smith
“BTAN ARCHIVES” MODERATOR: Eileen Delgadillo
TRIVIA: Tim “TWO-FACE” Leighton
ROAD THROUGH NO MAN’S LAND: Tim “TWO-FACE” Leighton
TWO-FACE’S TRADING POST: Tim “TWO-FACE” Leighton
PROMOTIONS AND JUST GETTIN’ THE WORD AROUND: Dick Grayson, Eileen Delgadillo, Brian Cruz, Brian Davis
THOSE WHO FILL IN FOR OTHERS WHEN THEY FOUL UP:-P Tim “TWO-FACE” Leighton
DELIVERY: Tim “TWO-FACE” Leighton
E-MAIL RECEPTION HANDLING: Tim “TWO-FACE” Leighton
BATMAN CREATED BY: Bob Kane (who else?)
All elements in this newsletter have been copyrighted (copywritten?) by DC Comics, 1999.
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