The Neighborhood Comics Batman '66 Film Series
A new perk for our Substack supporters and pals
Over the last few months, I’ve been on a deep dive through the archive of “classic” Batman TV-show spoofs, foreign films, original remasters and documentaries. This 1966 period of live-action Batman, along with the Super Friends cartoon, was my foundational intro to comic books and formative for how I view the medium. This recent exploration into the global impact of the series has unearthed amateur films from Turkey, Philippines and US fan films. These movies, episodes and shorts are simply begging to be watched with friends over popcorn, so that’s what we’ll do.
Introducing The Batman ‘66 Film Series
For local subscribers, we’ll host screenings and discussion at my home or at one of our shop locations depending on the number of RSVPs. For out-of-towners, I’ll provide a screening link and notes so you can follow along.
Schedule
January 17: RSVP NOW (Password: bifbampow)
Hi Diddle Riddle/Smack in the Middle
The 2-part pilot for the original series where the lore gets laid on thick.
February 25
The Purr-fect Crime/Better Luck Next Time
Julie Newmar, one of three Catwomen cast during the show’s tenure, introduces a new wrinkle in the Batman mythos.
March 22
Enter Batgirl, Exit Penguin/Batgirl Pilot Episode
Season 3 saw the debut of Barbara Gordon and sexism gets wild. Plus, the 7 minute pilot episode of the Batgirl stand-alone show that never was.
April 17
Alyas Batman en Robin
1991 Filipino “musical/comedy” Batman parody film.
May 17
La Mujer Murcielago
Mexican Batwoman film where she fights in a bikini, teaches wrestling, shoots guns and does a lot of scuba diving. Also there’s a fish-man.
June 10
Legends of the Superheroes: The Challenge
Made-for-TV live-action slapstick from 1979 reuniting a much older Adam West and Burt Ward.
Summer Break
Prior to a break for summer travel, we’ll discuss options for the second half of the series.
Want to watch the films with us? Become a subscriber to the newsletter to get your invitations. Paid subscribers will also receive screening links and exclusive posts with more information on the films.
