Ok, first things first, if you haven’t already go ahead and watch this, like, fifteen times so we can share in excitement. No rush. I’ll wait.
While it’s unfortunate that we have to wait over two long, grueling months to see West, Ward, and Newmar back in action, thankfully we have this comic to get our ’66 fix. And let me tell you, in the spirit of giant TV dinner death traps, this week’s installment gets just as ridiculous.
Naturally, that means it’s great.
Now don’t get me wrong, there’s some genuinely great, really sharp dialogue here, especially early on when the Dynamic Duo get to know each of the Avengers. Batman and Steed share a few words of encouragement, but it’s the hilarious sight of Robin riding along with Peel that gets the biggest laughs. It’s genuinely funny, and it also provides a nice look at each character’s personality, especially helpful for readers who aren’t familiar with Steed and Peel.
Tracing the signal emitted from the tracking pen that was placed in Steed’s pocket, our heroes find the source originated at a decommissioned lighthouse (because of course). There, they uncover the identity of the mysterious woman behind the Cybernaut attacks. It’s a fairly obvious twist that I won’t spoil, but that’s not the most important thing here.
No, what matters more is the appearance of Lord Ffogg. And his African Death Bee Gun.
Amazing.
As much as I’ve loved these series and appreciated the in-jokes, references, and capturing of the overall spirit of the show, it’s not often that the writers and illustrators let loose and just go over the top with the zaniness. Well, fear not citizens, as Edginton and Smith solve the problem of the Death Bees the only way that makes sense: dancing.
That’s up there with knowing the precise degree to move a magnifying glass or the exact pitch to be able to shatter glass to escape from a death trap. Totally ridiculous. Absolutely implausible. Four stars.
At the halfway point, this series has been consistently fun, and it’s nice to get to know Steed and Peel more and more. The writing is great, the artwork and gags are fun, and the overall tone is spot-on with the series. The fact that the usually square Batman gets to have a genuinely cool line at the end? That’s just icing on the cake.
Recommended if:
- You love Batman ’66.
- You love Steed and Peel’s Avengers.
- You want ridiculous, hilarious fun.
Overall: With smart dialogue, engaging visuals, and genuine hilarity, this may be the most fun installment yet. Come for the good character work, stay for the Death Bee gun. Surely, this is the ’66iest we’ve seen Batman ’66 get in some time.
SCORE: 8.5/10
