The classic Batman TV series that helped the long running comic become a TV & film franchise makes its return in Batman: Return of the Caped Crusaders. Once again starring Adam West and Burt Ward as the titular lead and his young ward respectively, the series takes a new direction in animated form. Classic cast member Julie Newmar also makes her return in the new animated epic reprising her role as Catwoman.

Batman: Return of the Caped Crusaders is an 2016 animated action film, it is produced by WB Animation & DC Entertainment, and it is distributed by WB Pictures.

Adam West & Burt Ward reprise their godsend roles.

Though I’m only 26 years old, I still remember the original Batman series from the 1960s quite well and even have fond memories of the series. From actor performances, to the excellent writing, to the down right silliness of it all Batman was just pure fun. Now the 60s series is back and animated in a new film, with a sequel already on its way.

Julie Newmar returns as Catwoman.

THE GOOD: Animation and casting changes aside, Return of the Caped Crusaders is a near perfect mirror image of the 60s series. With the return of West, Ward, and Newmar, the voice acting is some of the best you’ll ever get out of a DCAU film, and on the new cast, they mirror their live action counterparts to the point where you wouldn’t even realize it was a mostly entirely new cast unless you looked it up. There’s one scene in the movie where Batman/Bruce becomes…well a bit of a dick due to a mind altering potion, and West plays the villain so damn well that it’s a wonder he hasn’t received more voice over work for villainous roles.

More Adam West villain roles please!

THE BAD: Unless you just despise the 60s series, then there’s nothing to dislike

Replaced cast is hardly noticeable.

OVERALL THOUGHTS: Batman: Return of the Caped Crusaders is the purest form of homage to Batman of the 1960s. Fantastic voice over work, writing, and a truly fun film that anyone can watch with their families with sheer joy. Otaku Dome gives Batman: Return of the Caped Crusaders a 97 out of 100.